Category: Residence and Citizenship

In May 2023, Cyprus made a number of amendments to the Cyprus Permanent Residence Programme (PRP) with regards to; the secure annual income of the applicant, the criteria for eligible dependant family members, and requirements in relation to the property (permanent residence) of the applying family. In addition, ongoing obligations have been added in terms of maintaining the investment, following its approval.

As a reminder, we list here the various investment options that are available to acquire Permanent Residence in Cyprus.

Investment Options Available:

A. Purchase residential real estate worth at least €300,000 (+VAT) from a development company.

OR

B. Investment in real estate (excluding houses/apartments): Purchase of other types of real estate such as offices, shops, hotels or related estate developments or a combination of these with a total value of €300,000. The purchase of interest can be the result of a resale.

OR

C. Investment in the share capital of a Cyprus Company, with business activities and personnel in the Republic: Investment worth €300,000 in the share capital of a company registered in the Republic of Cyprus, based and operating in the Republic of Cyprus and having a proven physical presence in Cyprus, and employing at least five (5) people.

OR

D. Investment in units as recognised by the Cyprus Investment Organization of Collective Investments (types of AIF, AIFLNP, RAIF): Investment worth €300,000 in units of Cyprus Investment Organization Collective Investments.

Additional Requirements

• The funds of the investment must come from the Bank Account of the main applicant or his/her spouse, provided that the spouse is included as a dependant in the application.
• For the submission of the application the amount of at least €300,000 ( + VAT) must be paid to the Developer regardless of the completion date for the property. Relevant receipts must accompany the submission of the application.
• Provide evidence of a secure annual income of at least €50,000

(increased by €15,000 for the spouse and €10,000 for every minor child).

This income can come from; wages for work, pensions, stock dividends, interest on deposits, or rent. Income verification, must be the individual’s relevant tax return declaration, from the country in which he/she declares tax residence.

In the situation where the applicant wishes to invest as per investment option A, the income of the spouse of the applicant may also be taken into consideration.

In calculating the applicant’s total income where he or she chooses to invest as per the options B, C or D above, his/her total income or part of it may also arise from sources originating from activities within the Republic, provided that it is taxable in the Republic. In such cases, the income of the spouse/husband of the applicant may also be taken into consideration.

Other Terms and Conditions  

• All family members must provide  a Health Insurance Certificate for medical treatment covering inpatient and outpatient care in case they are not covered by GEsy (The Cypriot National Health Care System).
• The property to be used as the investment for the submission of the application and to be declared as the permanent residence of the family, must have sufficient bedrooms to satisfy the needs of the main applicant and his/her dependent family.
• A clean criminal record issued by the authorities of the country of residence and country of origin (if different), need to be provided upon submission of the application.
• The immigration permit does not allow the applicant and his/her spouse to undertake any form of employment in Cyprus and holders of the immigration permit must visit Cyprus once every two years. PRP holders are however permitted to own Cyprus companies and receive dividends.
• The applicant and his spouse/husband will certify that they do not intend to be employed in the Republic with the exception of their employment as Directors in a Company in which they have chosen to invest within the framework of this policy.
• In cases where the investment does not concern a Company’s share capital, the applicant and/or his spouse may be shareholders in Companies registered in Cyprus and the income from dividends in such companies shall not be considered as an obstacle for the purposes of obtaining the Immigration Permit. They may also hold the position of Director in such companies without pay.
• In the cases where the applicant chooses to invest under any of options B, C, D, he/she must present information regarding the place of residence for himself and family members in the Republic (e.g. property title deed, sales document, rental document).

Family Members

• As dependent family members, the main applicant can include ONLY; his/her spouse, minor children and adult children up to the age of 25 who are university students and financially dependent on the main applicant. No parents and/or parents-in-law are accepted as dependent family members. The annual secured income increases by €10,000 per adult child studying at a university up to the age of 25. The studying adult children must submit an application for a temporary residence permit as a student which can be converted to an Immigration Permit upon finalization of their studies.
• HIGHER VALUE INVESTMENT TO INCLUDE ADULT CHILDREN

An Immigration Permit may also be granted to adult children of an applicant who are not financially dependent, on the understanding that a higher value investment is made. The market value of the investment of €300,000 should be multiplied according to the number of adult children, claiming the same investment for the purposes of obtaining an Immigration Permit. For example, where the applicant has one adult child, the investment should be worth €600,000, if he has two adult children the investment value should be €900,000 gross.

Benefits

Actual residence in Cyprus may lead to eligibility for Cyprus citizenship by naturalisation.

Ongoing requirements after approval of the application

Once the application is approved by the Civil Registry and Migration Department, the applicant must submit evidence, on an annual basis, to prove that; he/she has maintained the investment, that he/she maintains the required income determined for him and his family, and that he and his family members are holders of a health insurance certificate, in case they are not beneficiaries of GHS/GESY (General Health System). In addition, the applicant and his adult family members are required to provide an annual certificate of a clean criminal record from their country of origin, as well as from their country of residence.

Additional Information

If you would like any additional information regarding the Cyprus Permanent Residence Programme and/or the recent changes to it, please speak to our office in Cyprus: advice.cyprus@dixcart.com

Cyprus Lifestyle and Tax Benefits

Why choose Cyprus for relocation purposes?

Surrounded by the bright blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus has always been an enticing location for high-net-worth individuals considering relocation. It is a member of the EU and therefore well positioned for those who seek global mobility and ease of travel across Europe, as well as the Middle East and Africa.

English is widely spoken in Cyprus, having been part of the Roman Empire and a British colony for many years, however traditions run deep through the island’s villages, with each enjoying a variety of cultural influences to share with newcomers.

Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate. Whilst small, the island is an archaeological and natural haven, with stunning seaside villages and beaches. It is also home to a large community of expats who have relocated to Cyprus to enjoy the benefits that the island, and the tax regime offers.

Cyprus offers the following lifestyle benefits:

• A Mediterranean lifestyle and peaceful, friendly community
• A good work-life balance
• Excellent transport links
• A diverse range of amenities
• Low cost of living
• Excellent private and state healthcare sectors
• A large expat community
• A high quality of education, there is the option for private education (English curriculum) or public education, as well as several international Universities located on the island
• Attractive tax benefits

Cyprus Offers a Range of Interesting Tax Incentives for Individuals

Many high-net-worth individuals relocate to Cyprus due to its advantageous non-domicile tax regime, whereby individuals who were not previously tax resident can apply for non-domicile status.

Cypriot non-domiciles benefit from a zero rate of tax on; interest, dividends, and capital gains (apart from capital gains derived from the sale of immovable property in Cyprus), and capital sums received from pension, provident and insurance funds.

These zero tax benefits are enjoyed even if the income has a Cyprus source or is remitted to Cyprus. There are several other tax advantages, including a low rate of tax on foreign pensions, and there are no wealth or inheritance taxes in Cyprus.

Options for Relocating: Permanent Residence and Temporary Residence Permits

Individuals wishing to move to Cyprus can apply for a Permanent Residence Permit which is useful as a means to ease travel to EU countries and organise business activities in Europe.

Applicants must make an investment of at least €300,000 in one of the investment categories required under the programme, and prove they have an annual income of at least €50,000 (which can be from pensions, overseas employment, interest on fixed deposits, or rental income from abroad).

If the holder of a Permanent Residence Permit resides in Cyprus, this may make them eligible for Cyprus citizenship by naturalisation.

Alternatively, a temporary residence permit can be obtained by establishing a foreign investment company (FIC). Through this kind of international company, work permits can be obtained for relevant employees, and residence permits for them and family members. Another key advantage is, again, that after residing for seven years in Cyprus, within any ten-calendar year period, third country nationals can apply for Cyprus citizenship.

Moving to Cyprus to take up Employment.

It is common for high-net-worth individuals to relocate to Cyprus for employment purposes. If the Permanent Residence Permit is not the right route for you and/or your family, Cyprus offers several alternate ways to live and work in Cyprus:

• Business Facilitation Unit: visas for highly skilled third country nationals – the Ministry of Finance announced in 2022, that they are introducing the Business Facilitation Unit to assist highly skilled third country employees with a minimum gross salary of €2,500 per month, to gain work permits in Cyprus. These permits will last up to three years.
• Digital Nomad visa: non-EU nationals who are self-employed, salaried, or on a freelance basis can apply for the right to live and work in Cyprus remotely, for up to one year. The visa can be renewed for another two years.

Why Relocate to Cyprus for Work?

Personal taxation benefits:

• A tax exemption, of 50% of employment income, is available to an individual employed in Cyprus who was resident outside of Cyprus before he/she commenced employment in Cyprus. The exemption applies for a period of seventeen years starting from the first year of employment in Cyprus, provided that employment income exceeds €55,000 per year.
• Cyprus has more than 65 tax treaties that provide for zero or reduced withholding tax rates on; dividends, interest, royalties, and pensions received from abroad. In addition, lump sums received as a retirement gratuity, are exempt from tax.
• A Cypriot tax resident receiving pension income from abroad, can choose to be taxed at a flat rate of 5%, on amounts exceeding €3,420 per year.

Starting a Business in Cyprus as a Means of Relocation

The reputation of Cyprus as an international financial centre has grown significantly over recent years. Cyprus is an attractive jurisdiction for trading and holding companies and offers a number of tax incentives.

In order to encourage new businesses to the island, Cyprus offers two temporary visa routes as a means for individuals to live and work in Cyprus:

• Establishing a Cyprus Foreign Investment Company (FIC): individuals can establish an international company which can employ non-EU nationals in Cyprus. Such a company can obtain work permits for relevant employees and residence permits for them and their family members. A key advantage is that after seven years, third country nationals can apply for Cyprus Citizenship.
• Establishment of a small and medium sized Innovative Enterprise (Start-up visa): this scheme allows entrepreneurs (individuals or a team), from countries outside the EU and outside the EEA, to enter, reside and work in Cyprus in order to; establish, operate, and develop a start-up business. This visa is available for one year, with the option to renew for another year.

Corporate Tax Benefits:

• Cypriot companies enjoy a 12.5% rate of tax on trading, and a zero rate of capital gains tax. In addition, Cyprus tax resident companies and Cyprus permanent establishments (PEs), of non-Cyprus tax resident companies, are entitled to a Notional Interest Deduction (NID), on the injection of new equity used to generate taxable income.
• NID is deducted from taxable income. It cannot exceed 80% of the taxable income, as calculated prior to the Notional Interest Deduction, arising from the new equity. A company could achieve an effective tax rate as low as 2.50% (income tax rate 12.50% x 20%).

Get in Touch

For additional information about the attractive tax regime for individuals moving to Cyprus, or information regarding relocating there, please contact: advice.cyprus@dixcart.com.

Background

Cyprus offers various options for non-EU nationals to acquire residence. Each of these residence routes offer the additional advantage of leading to Cyprus citizenship, as long as the relevant criteria are met.

The different routes are:

• Permanent Residence Permit through investment
• Temporary Residence Permit through the establishment of a Foreign Interest Company
• Temporary Residence Permit through the establishment of a Small and Medium Sized Innovative Enterprise (“Start-up Visa”)
• The Cyprus pink slip. You must renew the pink slip annually. Under this permit, a person is allowed to live in Cyprus as a visitor (without the right to work). Also, his family members, spouse, and children (under 18 years old) can get the pink slip as dependants. The whole family applies at the same time; each family member files a separate application form and gets his temporary residence card.
• The Category F permanent residence permit is available to individuals with an annual income of about EUR 15,000 for a family of two.

Category F is popular with pensioners and retirees. Both the investor visa and the Category F permit are permanent.

•  Digital Nomad visa: non-EU nationals who are self-employed, salaried, or working on a freelance basis can apply for the right to live and work from Cyprus remotely.

Applicants must work remotely using information technology and communicate remotely with clients and employers outside Cyprus.

A Digital Nomad has the right to stay in Cyprus for a period of up to one year, with the right to renew for another two years. During the stay in Cyprus the spouse or partner and any minor family members, cannot provide independent work or engage in any kind of employment activity in the country. If they reside in Cyprus for over 183 days in the same tax year, then they are considered to be tax residents of Cyprus.Each digital nomad must have; a salary of at least €3,500 per month, medical cover and a clean criminal record from their country of residence.

 Currently the cap of the total amount of allowed applications has been reached and therefore this programme is currently unavailable.

We will elaborate here below the most popular options of the above mentioned routes.

• PERMANENT RESIDENCE PERMIT

Cyprus has been a member of the European Union since 2004 and in order to attract additional foreign investment the Cyprus government introduced the Permanent Residence Permit scheme. Through this programme, non-EU nationals can guarantee their residence in the EU.

Requirements

The requirements for the Cyprus Residence Permit scheme are:

• Make an investment of at least €300,000, in one of the following investment categories:

A. Purchase residential real estate (house/apartment) by a Land Development company in Cyprus, which should relate to a first sale of at least €300,000 (excluding VAT) OR;

B. Investment in real estate (excluding houses/apartments): Purchase other types of real estate, such as offices, shops, hotels, or related estate developments of a combination of these, with a total value of €300,000 (excluding VAT). Re-sale properties are acceptable. OR;

C. Investment of at least €300,000 in the share capital of a Cyprus company, which is based and operates in Cyprus, has substance in Cyprus, and employs at least 5 people in Cyprus. OR;

D. Investment of at least €300,000 in units of a Cyprus Investment Organisation of Collective Investments (type AIF, AIFLNP, RAIF).

Additional requirements:

Provide evidence of a secure annual income of at least €50,000. This required annual income increases by €15,000 for the spouse and €10,000 for every minor child. This income can come from; wages for work, pensions, stock dividends, interest on deposits, or rent. Income verification must be the individual’s relevant tax return declaration, from the country in which he/she declares tax residence. In the situation where the applicant wishes to invest as per investment option A, the income of the spouse of the applicant may also be taken into consideration. In calculating the applicant’s total income where he or she chooses to invest as per the options B, C or D, his/her total income or part of it may also arise from sources originating from activities within the Republic of Cyprus, provided that it is taxable in the Republic of Cyprus. In such cases, the income of the spouse of the applicant may also be taken into consideration.

Other Criteria

The applicant and their spouse must certify that they do not intend to be employed in the Republic of Cyprus except for their employment, as Directors in a company, in which they have chosen to invest within the framework of this policy.

In cases where the investment does not concern a company’s share capital, the applicant and/or their spouse may be shareholders in companies registered in Cyprus and the income from dividends in such companies shall not be considered as an obstacle for the purposes of obtaining the Immigration Permit.  They may also hold the position of Director in such companies without pay.

Holders of the residence permit must visit Cyprus once every two years.

A clean criminal record, issued by the authorities of the country of existing residence & country of origin (if different), needs to be provided upon submission of the application.

Family Members

Residence permits can also be issued to the investors’ spouse and all financially dependent children.

The Option of Cyprus Citizenship

If the holder of a Permanent Residence Permit resides in Cyprus, this may make them eligible for Cyprus citizenship by naturalisation.  

• TEMPORARY RESIDENCE PERMIT VIA THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A FOREIGN INTEREST COMPANY

Key Features of a Cyprus Foreign Investment Company

A Cyprus Foreign Investment Company (FIC) is an international company which can employ non-EU nationals in Cyprus. Such a company can obtain work permits for relevant employees and residence permits for their family members.

Main Criteria

The main criteria for a Cyprus FIC are:

• The third country shareholder(s) must own more than 50% of the total share capital of the company.
• The third country shareholder(s) must contribute at least €200.000 to the share capital of the company. This investment can be used, at a later date, to fund future expenses incurred by the company when it is established in Cyprus.

Main Advantages

A key advantage is that after residing for seven years in Cyprus within any ten calendar year period, third country nationals can apply for Cyprus citizenship.

In the shorter term:

• FICs can employ third country nationals, who can apply for appropriate residence and work permits, each of which will be valid for up to two years and are renewable.
• Employees can exercise the right for their families to join them in Cyprus.
• The corporate tax in Cyprus is at a competitive level of 12.5%.
• A Cyprus FIC can also apply for the Notional Interest Deduction Regime, which reduces corporate taxation, by treating new equity in the same way as debt. Please contact Dixcart for more information: advice.cyprus@dixcart.com
• Cyprus has Double Tax Agreements with almost 60 countries.
• Dividend income is exempt from corporate and individual taxation.
• Dividend distribution to shareholder(s), is exempt from withholding tax.
• TEMPORARY RESIDENCE PERMIT VIA THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED INNOVATIVE ENTERPRISE (START-UP VISA)

The Cyprus ‘Start-up Visa’

The Cyprus Start-up Visa Scheme allows entrepreneurs (individuals or in a team), from third countries (outside the EU and outside the EEA), to enter, reside and work in Cyprus in order to establish, operate, and develop a start-up business.

Who Can Benefit from the Scheme?

1. Individuals

Non-EU country nationals who are the founders or owners of an enterprise that meets the following requirements:

• the enterprise must be innovative – research and development costs must represent at least 10% of its operating costs, in at least one of the three years preceding the submission of the application, as certified by an external auditor. In the case of a new enterprise, without any financial history, the evaluation will be based on a Business Plan that must be submitted to the Ministry of Finance.
• the Business Plan must provide that the enterprise’s head office and tax domicile will be established in Cyprus.
• Teams

Team consisting of non-EU nationals:

• Founders that consist of a maximum of five individuals, or at least one founder plus other senior executives, up to a maximum of five individuals. The senior management must be to C-suite level employees (managers).
• The team must own more than 50% of the company shares.
• The founder must have access to a minimum €10,000. Where there are more than two founders, the total capital must be a minimum €20,000.
• At least one of the team members holds an undergraduate or equivalent professional qualification.

The requirements mentioned above, relating to individuals and the enterprise criteria, also apply to team applications. 

What are the Benefits of the Start-up Visa Scheme?

• Individuals and team members, approved under the Start-up Visa Scheme, will benefit from the right to undertake economic activity and to  reside in Cyprus for one year, with the option of renewing this for at least another year.

They have the right to self-employment and/or the right to paid employment in the company registered under the Start-up Scheme in Cyprus, with the prospect of permanent residence in Cyprus, as long as the business ‘succeeds’. Additional family members can move to Cyprus and a specified number of individuals from non-EU countries, can be employed, without prior approval from the Department of Labour, again assuming the success of the business. Success or failure of the business, will be assessed at the end of the second year of trading.

• Amendments to the Income Tax Law mean that there are special tax incentives for ‘natural persons’ who are investing in innovative companies.

The type of investment subject to the tax reduction include: the capital investment, investment in debt instruments, investment in loans, follow-on investments. The tax reduction can be up to a maximum 50% of the investor’s taxable income in the year that the investment takes place. The amount of the tax reduction cannot be greater than €150,000 per year. It is possible for the tax reduction to be carried forward and enjoyed anytime during the five years following the investment.

Additional Information

If you require any further information, please contact Katrien de Poorter, in the Dixcart office in Cyprus: advice.cyprus@dixcart.com.

The UK is currently experiencing an unusual economic climate. On one hand, we are facing a possible recession but on the other hand, the reduced qualified/skilled available workforce is leading employers to look overseas. This article hopes to dispel some of the myths surrounding sponsoring non-UK nationals.

What do I need to think about, when employing a non-UK national?

Firstly, where is your prospective employee?  If they are in the UK, how are they in the UK?

There are a number of immigration categories where an non-UK national is able to work for you in the UK without you needing to sponsor them. For instance:

• Holders of Ancestry visas
• Holders of dependant status: where their partner is in the UK under one of the work categories
• Holders of spouse visas

If none of the above apply, then, if you are a UK trading entity, you can sponsor a non-UK national if you obtain/hold a sponsor licence.

Is it very expensive to sponsor a worker?

The total cost of sponsoring a non-UK employee depends on the following:

1. Whether you are considered a small/medium or large company
2. The duration of the permission: less or more than 3 years
3. The job type: is it considered a shortage occupation or is it a PhD occupation?
4. How old is your candidate?

Secondly, you need to consider what you, as an employer must pay for and what the employee pays for. Any immediate costs; for assigning the certificate of sponsorship, the certificate charge and the Immigration Skills Charge, is the responsibility of the employer. The other costs; Immigration Health Surcharge, priority processing and visa fees, are the responsibility of the employee and if paid by the employer are considered to be a “benefit in kind”.

Is it difficult to obtain a sponsor licence?

The main complexity with the sponsor licence application is that, if an application is refused, you are unable to reapply for 6 months.

The rules surrounding which entities can apply, the evidence  required to be submitted and whether a licence is required for each related entity in the UK is a challenge. Although information is available on the UK Government portal, it is not always clear which sections apply.

I have heard that the process is complicated and burdensome for the employer

That depends on whether you are already running a compliant business. Contrary to popular belief, the sponsor licence obligations complement the compliance required for employment law, tax, and  health and safety along with other areas of UK law. It is only complicated/burdensome, if you do not already have an effective compliance infrastructure in  place.

Additional Information

If you have any questions and/or would like tailored advice on any UK immigration matter, please speak to us at: advice.uk@dixcart.com, or to your usual Dixcart contact.

Have you just landed in Cyprus or are you planning to relocate to Cyprus and benefit from the numerous tax benefits Cyprus has to offer?

Tax Advantages Available to Expats in Cyprus

• Under the Cyprus non-domicile programme new tax residents of Cyprus enjoy an exemption from taxation on; dividends, interests, capital gains*, AND capital sums received from pensions, provident and insurance funds, for a period of 17 years.
• Cyprus has no wealth or inheritance tax.
• 50% of the remuneration of employees with a first job working in Cyprus, is exempt from income tax for a period of 17 years. Annual remuneration must exceed €55,000 and employees must not have been residents of Cyprus for a period of, at least, 10 consecutive years, prior to the start of their employment in Cyprus.

How Can Dixcart Help?

Expats working in Cyprus need to apply for various documents. Dixcart can assist with this process and help ensure that it is as simple and timely as possible.

1. Within four months of arrival in Cyprus EU – citizens need to obtain a Cyprus Residence Certificate.

For non-EU citizens other requirements apply, depending on the type of residence application. Dixcart can provide advice to non-EU nationals regarding the documentation that they need to provide.

2. New residents need to apply for a personal Tax Identification Number.
3. Each year a personal income tax declaration needs to be filed.

Finally, do not forget your driving licence, it may make sense to convert this to a Cypriot one.

Dixcart Contact Details

Dixcart Cyprus is happy to assist with all relevant administrative matters from your arrival in Cyprus and during your stay in Cyprus. Please speak to Charalambos or Katrien: advice.cyprus@dixcart.com

We also provide advice regarding the tax benefits available and how you can take steps to ensure that you are receiving these.

*Exception being capital gains from the sale of immovable property in Cyprus

Non-EU Individuals wishing to move to Cyprus can apply for a Permanent Residence Permit which is useful as a means to ease travel to EU countries and organise business activities in Europe.

The process is simple: applicants must make an investment of at least €300,000 in one of the investment categories required under the programme, and prove they have an annual income of at least €50,000 (which can be from pensions, overseas employment, interest on fixed deposits, or rental income from abroad).

If the holder of a Permanent Residence Permit resides in Cyprus, this may make them eligible for Cyprus citizenship by naturalisation.

Alternatively, in order to encourage new businesses to the island, Cyprus offers temporary visa routes as a means for individuals to live and work in Cyprus:

• Establishing a Cyprus Foreign Investment Company (FIC): work permits can be obtained for relevant employees, and residence permits for them and family members. After residing for seven years in Cyprus, within any ten-calendar year period, third country nationals can apply for Cyprus citizenship.
• Establishment of a small and medium sized Innovative Enterprise (Start-up visa): the core goal of the Cyprus start-up visa scheme is to allow talented, non-EU entrepreneurs from countries located outside the EU and outside the EEA to reap the benefits of residing and working in Cyprus, whilst the island benefits from the development of these innovative new businesses. There are two main schemes: (1) the Individual Start-up Visa Scheme; and (2) the Team Start-up Visa Scheme.

This visa is available for one year, with the option to renew for another year.

• The Cyprus pink slip. You must renew the pink slip annually. Under this permit, a person is allowed to live in Cyprus as a visitor (without the right to work). Also, his family members, spouse, and children (under 18 years old) can get the pink slip as dependants. The whole family applies at the same time; each family member files a separate application form and gets his temporary residence card.

It is common for high-net-worth individuals to relocate to Cyprus for employment purposes. If the Permanent Residence Permit or the above temporary permits are not the right route for you and/or your family, Cyprus offers another alternate way to live and work in Cyprus:

• Digital Nomad visa: non-EU nationals who are self-employed, salaried, or on a freelance basis can apply for the right to live and work in Cyprus remotely, for up to one year. The visa can be renewed for another two years. Currently the cap of the total amount of allowed applications has been reached and therefore this programme is currently unavailable.

If you are considering relocating to Cyprus, please get in touch with Katrien de Poorter who would be delighted to speak with you: advice.cyprus@dixcart.com.

Switzerland is a very attractive location to live and work for many non-Swiss nationals. It offers amazing scenery as well as a number of world-famous cities such as Berne, Geneva, Lausanne, and Zurich. It also offers an attractive tax regime for individuals as well as for companies, in the right circumstances.

It is an enchanting country, blessed with spectacular hiking and skiing trails, beautiful rivers and lakes, picturesque villages, Swiss festivals throughout the year, and, of course, the spectacular Swiss Alps. It appears on almost every bucket list of places to visit but has succeeded in not feeling over-commercialised – even with the tourists flocking to the country to try the world-famous Swiss chocolates.

Switzerland features almost at the top of the list of most attractive countries for high-net-worth individuals to live. It is one of the world’s wealthiest countries and is also known for its impartiality and neutrality. It offers an exceptionally high standard of living, first-rate health service, outstanding education system, and boasts a plethora of employment opportunities.

Switzerland is also ideally situated for ease of travel; one of the many reasons high-net-worth individuals choose to relocate here. Perfectly situated in the middle of Europe means moving around could not be easier, especially for individuals who regularly travel, internationally.

In Switzerland, four different languages are spoken, and English is well spoken everywhere.

Living in Switzerland

Although Switzerland has a variety of beautiful towns and alpine villages to live in, expats and high-net-worth individuals are mainly drawn to a few specific cities. At a glance, these are Zürich, Geneva, Bern and Lugano.

Geneva and Zürich are the biggest cities due to their popularity as centres for international business and finance. Lugano is located in Ticino, the third most popular canton, as it is close to Italy and has a Mediterranean culture many expats enjoy.

Geneva

Geneva is known as the ‘international city’ in Switzerland. This is due to the high number of expats, the UN, banks, commodity companies, private wealth companies, as well as other international companies. Many businesses have set up head offices in Geneva. However, the main attraction for individuals, continues to be the fact that it is in the French part of the country, has a well-looked-after old town full of history and culture and boasts Lake Geneva, with a magnificent water fountain which reaches 140 meters into the air.

Geneva also has fantastic connections to the rest of the world, with a large international airport and connections to the Swiss and French rail and motorway systems.

In the winter months, residents in Geneva also have very easy access to the Alp’s best ski resorts.

Zürich

Zürich is not the capital of Switzerland, but it is the largest city, with 1.3 million people within the canton; an estimated 30% of the residents in Zürich are foreign nationals. Zürich is known as the Swiss financial capital and is home to many international businesses, especially banks. Even though it gives the image of high-rise buildings and a city lifestyle, Zürich has a beautiful and historical old town, and an abundance of museums, art galleries and restaurants.  Of course, you are also never too far from the lakes, hiking trails and ski slopes if you love being outdoors.

Lugano and the Canton of Ticino

The canton of Ticino is the southernmost canton of Switzerland and borders the canton of Uri to the north. The Italian-speaking region of Ticino is popular for its flair (due to its proximity to Italy) and fantastic weather.

Residents enjoy a snowy winter but in the summer months, Ticino opens its doors to tourists who flood to its sunny coastal resorts, rivers and lakes, or sun themselves in the town squares and piazzas.

Working in Switzerland

There are three ways to be entitled to work in Switzerland:

• Being hired by an existing Swiss company.
• Forming a Swiss company and become a director or an employee of the company.
• Investing in a Swiss company and become a director or an employee of the company.

When applying for Swiss work and/or residence permits, it is important to note that different regulations apply to EU and EFTA nationals compared to other nationals, so it is worth checking.

The most popular route is definitely individuals forming a company in Switzerland. This is because EU/EFTA and non-EU/EFTA nationals can form a company, be employed by it, reside in Switzerland, and benefit from the attractive tax regime.

Any foreign national can form a company and therefore potentially create jobs for Swiss nationals. The owner of the company is eligible for a residence permit in Switzerland, as long as he/she is employed by the company in a senior capacity.

For more information on forming a Swiss company, please read our following article: Moving to Switzerland and Want to Work? The Benefits of Forming a Swiss Company – Dixcart

Taxation is also a topic that needs to be considered.

• Taxation of Individuals

Each canton sets its own tax rates and generally imposes the following taxes: income, net wealth, real estate, inheritance, and gift tax. The specific tax rate varies by canton and is between 21% and 46%.

In Switzerland, the transfer of assets, on death, to a spouse, children and/or grandchildren is exempt from gift and inheritance tax, in most cantons.

Capital gains are generally tax free, except in the case of real estate. The sale of company shares is one of the assets, that is exempt from capital gains tax.

Lump Sum Taxation – if not working in Switzerland

A non-Swiss national, who does not work in Switzerland, can apply for Swiss residency under the system of ‘Lump Sum Taxation’.

• The taxpayer’s lifestyle expenses are used as a tax base instead of his/her global income and wealth. There is no reporting of global earnings and assets.

Once the tax base has been determined and agreed with the tax authorities, it will be subject to the standard tax rate relevant in that canton.

Work activities outside Switzerland are permitted. Activities relating to the administration of private assets in Switzerland can also be undertaken.

Third country nationals (non-EU/EFTA) may be required to pay a higher lump-sum tax on the basis of “predominant cantonal interest”. This will depend on several factors and varies case by case.

Additional Information

I hope this article has inspired you to visit Switzerland and to consider this incredible country as a place of residence. No matter which canton draws your attention, or which city you decide to settle in, the rest of the country, and Europe, is easily accessible. It may be a small country, but it offers; a diverse range of places to live, a dynamic mix of nationalities, is headquarters to many international businesses, and caters to a large range of sports and leisure interests.

The Dixcart office in Switzerland can provide a detailed understanding of the Swiss Lump Sum System of Taxation, the obligations that need to be met by applicants and the fees involved. We can also give a local perspective on the country, its people, the lifestyle, and any tax issues.

If you would like to visit Switzerland, or wish to discuss moving to Switzerland, please do get in touch: advice.switzerland@dixcart.com.

Background

The new visa for digital nomads became available on October 30^th 2022, allowing any remote worker or self-employed individual to pursue their profession in Portugal, enjoying all of the quality of life that Portugal has to offer.

The Digital Nomad Visa offers good residency options for non- EU digital nomads who either want to work remotely while living in Portugal for one year, or wish to make Portugal a permanent residency. It is also relevant for individuals applying for a residency permit and following the 5-year path for Portuguese citizenship or, alternatively, applying for the Portuguese permanent resident permit.

The Visa outlined in this article, leads to residency in Portugal, while a different Digital Nomad Visa does not. For more information, please speak to us: advice.portugal@dixcart.com.

Overview

With the last amendment of the relevant law, the Portuguese Government implemented the digital nomad visa, specifically allowing foreign professionals to provide their services remotely, either as a subordinate worker or as an independent worker from Portugal, and to apply for residency in Portugal. 

Step 1: Hire a Legal Adviser

As the digital nomad visa is relatively recent, it requires an expert with sufficient experience and knowledge of Portuguese immigration law, to take you smoothly through the process. Things to consider when hiring a legal adviser, are experience in the market, specifically in this area, and the track history of the firm.

Once a legal adviser is appointed, they will assist you with the documents that you need to collect to apply for the visa and schedule the relevant appointment at the Portuguese Consulate, for the area where you reside, helping you through every step of the process.

Step 2: Portuguese Tax number and Opening a Portuguese Bank Account

To apply for the visa, you will need to prove that you have sufficient means of subsistence in Portugal for the period of your stay (a minimum of one year). This means that a Portuguese bank account, and consequently a Portuguese tax number, are required.

A deposit of the minimum monthly Portuguese salary of €820 in 2024, multiplied by twelve (the minimum stay period) is mandatory, to present to the Portuguese Immigration Authorities (i.e., €9,840).

Step 3: Collect Documentation

You will need to assemble a number of documents for the appointment at the Portuguese Consulate:

General documentation required to request a visa:

1. Proof of legal residency in the country from where you are applying
2. Travel insurance covering necessary medical expenses, valid for 12 months
3. Criminal record certificate
4. Proof of accommodation in Portugal for, at least, 12 months
5. Proof of means of subsistence in Portugal

Specific documentation for the digital nomad visa

• Working for an employer – one of the following documents:
  • Work contract; or,
  • Promise of work contract; or,
  • Declaration by employer confirming the labour link.
• Independent professional activity – one of the following documents:
  • Proof of company incorporation; or,
  • Contract of service provision; or,
  • Written proposal of services provision contract; or, 
  • Document attesting the services provided to one or more entities.
• Proof of average monthly income for the last three months with a minimum value equivalent to four times the Portuguese minimum wage: €3,040 (in 2024 the minimum wage is expected to be €820 , which means that the minimum relevant wage for this Visa will be €3,280).
• A document confirming tax residence.

Step 3: Legal Formalities

Make an appointment at the Portuguese Consulate, where a meeting must take place to deliver the documentation and for biometrics for the visa to be taken.

Step 4: Final Steps

After analysis of the application is complete, the digital nomad visa is issued for a period of four months and allows two legal entries into Portugal. When in Portugal, an appointment needs to be made with the Portuguese Immigration Authorities to complete the process. Once the digital nomad visa for residency is issued, it will be valid for two years and there is an option to then renew it.

Advantages

Work remotely and legally from Portugal Mainland or either of the Islands of Madeira or the Azores, and enjoying the amazing weather and food.

In Madeira, the “Digital Nomads Madeira” has already been created, which is a village for digital nomads, where they can enjoy workspaces, places of activity and community, with updated technology.

After 5 years, you can apply for citizenship or a Portuguese permanent residency permit that may be valid up to a period of 10 years.

Finally, permanent Visa Free entry and movement in the Schengen Area, for up to 90 days out of any 180 days.

Additional Information

If you require any additional information regarding the Digital Nomad visa, the processes involved and the advantages it offers, please contact the Dixcart office in Portugal: advice.portugal@dixcart.com.

We will be delighted to help you.

Malta has introduced a New Start-up Residence Programme

At the 2-day “Start-In-Malta Festival” in October 2022, Malta Residence Agency announced a new residence programme: the Malta Start-Up Residence Programme.

• This new visa will allow non-European nationals to relocate and live in Malta, by establishing an innovative start-up.

The programme allows founders/co-founders to apply for a 3-year residency permit, together with their immediate family, and the company to apply for 4 additional permits for Key Employees.  

The Hon. Miriam Dalli (Minister for the Environment, Energy and Enterprise) stated “we want to be at the forefront of cutting edge technology innovation, research & development“.

Highlights of the new Start-Up Residence Visa

• Fast and efficient application process
• Founders/Co Founders receive a 3-year permit that can be potentially renewed for another 5 years (it is possible to include immediate family members in the application)
• Founders/Co Founders may apply for permanent residency after residing in Malta for 5 years
• The Start-up company can also apply for residence permits for up to 4 Key employees (of which they will need to satisfy the requirements of the KEI)
• Key Employees receive a 3-year residence permit that can be renewed for another 3 years (it is possible to include immediate family members in the application)
• Key Employees may apply for long term residency after completing 5 years in Malta

Salient Points:

• The Start-up Business Plan must be approved by Malta Enterprise
• Malta Enterprise will periodically review the start-up activities
• It is still possible to apply for all Malta Enterprise Support Measures, however the residence permit will only be approved once the funding is approved (if no funding is required, the Residence application process may be swift):
  • Funding Available for it and Fintech Business in Malta
  • Malta – The Package of Support Available for Research and Development Projects 

• It is expected that the successful applicants will reside in Malta and make Malta their permanent residence and therefore there is a minimum stay requirement of 183 days per year

Additional Information

For further information on the new Start-up Visa, please do not hesitate to contact Jonathan Vassallo: advice.malta@dixcart.com at the Dixcart office, in Malta or your usual Dixcart contact.

Dixcart Management Malta Limited Licence Number: AKM-DIXC.