Do Ukrainian nationals need a visa for Cyprus?

Ukrainian nationals with EU Temporary Protection have the right to live and work in Cyprus without a separate visa. For long-term residency, a Cyprus directorship under the 60-day rule provides a stable, permanent legal basis.

Can I use a Cyprus company instead of Diia City?

Yes. A Cyprus LTD with 15% CIT and non-dom 0% SDC on dividends is broadly comparable to Diia City's tax benefits, while offering full EU legal standing and international banking access that is easier to maintain from abroad.

How long does it take to set up a Cyprus company?

A Cyprus LTD can typically be incorporated within 4–6 weeks from instruction. Expedited formation is available and can complete in as little as 5–10 working days for straightforward structures.

🇺🇦EU residency + fast-track for Ukrainian nationals

Relocating from Ukraine to Cyprus

If you're a Ukrainian entrepreneur who left home because of the war, Cyprus offers more than a tax haven — it offers stability, EU access, and a clear legal path forward.

Cyprus has a significant Ukrainian community, a fast-track residency pathway, and the infrastructure to support relocated tech founders and business owners.

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Your Situation

Why Ukraine entrepreneurs are considering a move

War Displacement and Business Continuity

The full-scale Russian invasion has forced thousands of Ukrainian entrepreneurs to relocate abroad. Many operated through Ukrainian FOP (sole trader) or LLC structures that are now difficult to maintain while living outside Ukraine.

Diia City Alternative

Diia City offered a simplified 5% income tax and no profit tax for Ukrainian tech companies. For founders who have left Ukraine, the practical ability to use Diia City is reduced — Cyprus offers a comparable low-tax environment with full EU legal certainty.

EU Temporary Protection Status

EU Temporary Protection allowed Ukrainians to live and work across the EU. As this status evolves, establishing a more permanent residence basis — through a Cyprus company directorship or employment — provides greater long-term certainty.

Banking and Payment Access

Ukrainian founders need SEPA-accessible EU bank accounts, Stripe and PayPal merchant accounts, and professional invoicing infrastructure. A Cyprus company provides all of these out of the box.

What Cyprus Offers You

Five reasons Ukraine founders choose Cyprus

EU member state: full Schengen travel and EU market access
Cyprus has a large, established Ukrainian community and Russian-speaking professionals
15% CIT, 0% CGT on shares, non-dom 0% SDC on dividends
No Cyprus-Ukraine DTT currently in force — careful planning required but not a blocker
Fast-track company formation: Cyprus LTD operational within 4–6 weeks

Relocation Timeline

From decision to first day as a Cyprus tax resident

Residency basis assessmentWeek 1–2

Review current legal status in Cyprus or EU, confirm temporary protection documentation or visa pathway.

Cyprus LTD incorporationWeek 2–6

Company registered, bank account opened, director appointment, registered office.

Relocate to Cyprus and registerMonth 2–3

Rental agreement, ARC (Alien Registration Certificate) application, tax registration with Cyprus TIC.

Cyprus tax residency establishedMonth 3–5

60-day or 183-day rule met, non-dom application submitted, Ukraine tax de-registration planned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ukraine-specific questions

Can Ukrainians get Cyprus residency easily?

EU Temporary Protection gave Ukrainians the right to live and work in Cyprus without a separate visa. For a more permanent path, a Cyprus company directorship under the 60-day rule is the most practical route to formal Cyprus tax residency. A local lawyer can guide the ARC application process.

Do I need to de-register from Ukrainian taxes?

This depends on your Ukrainian entity structure and how long you have been abroad. Ukrainians who have been outside Ukraine for more than 183 days in a calendar year may already qualify as non-residents for Ukrainian tax purposes. However, FOP structures have different rules — specialist advice is essential.

Can I keep invoicing my international clients from a Cyprus company?

Yes. A Cyprus LTD is ideal for invoicing international clients, receiving payments via SEPA, and accessing payment processors like Stripe. It is a fully EU-compliant entity with a clean international reputation, making it significantly easier to work with Western clients than a Ukrainian entity during wartime.

Is Cyprus safe for long-term relocation — not just temporary?

Cyprus is a stable EU and Eurozone member with a low crime rate and a large expat community. Many Ukrainian families have settled in Limassol and Nicosia. The island offers international schools, high-quality private healthcare, and an English-friendly environment.

Relevant Guide

Cyprus 2026 Tax Reform — Founder Summary

Key changes in Cyprus's 2026 tax reform and how they affect Ukrainian founders establishing EU tax residency and a Cyprus company.

Read the guide →

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Legal Disclaimer: This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Tax laws change frequently. Always seek independent professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making relocation or tax planning decisions.