Buying Property in Cyprus After Brexit: What UK Buyers Need to Know

August 3, 2026

British citizens can still purchase property in Cyprus after Brexit. However, UK nationals are now treated as third-country nationals, meaning that the purchasing process includes an additional approval that did not generally apply before Brexit.

Can UK citizens buy property in Cyprus?

Yes. British buyers can purchase residential property, land and certain commercial properties in Cyprus.

As third-country nationals, they must apply for permission from the competent District Administration under the Immovable Property Acquisition legislation. This is usually completed through Form COMM 145 and is commonly handled by the buyer’s Cyprus lawyer.

The authorities may permit a foreign individual or married couple to purchase:

• up to two residential units; or
• one residence together with a commercial unit, subject to the applicable size limits; or
• a plot of land of up to 4,000 m² for the construction of a private residence.

Permission is generally granted to legitimate buyers who meet the required conditions, but every application is assessed individually.

Does buying property provide residency?

Buying a property does not automatically give a British citizen the right to live permanently in Cyprus.

UK nationals may normally visit Cyprus for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Anyone planning to stay longer must obtain the appropriate residence permit, depending on their circumstances.

Cyprus also offers an expedited permanent-residence route for qualifying non-EU investors. Under the current criteria, an applicant may invest at least €300,000 plus VAT, where applicable, in an eligible property or other approved investment and must satisfy separate income and eligibility requirements. The property purchase alone is not sufficient.

What is the usual buying process?

The typical process includes:

1. Selecting the property and agreeing on the main terms.
2. Appointing an independent Cyprus lawyer.
3. Completing legal searches on the property and seller.
4. Signing a reservation agreement, where appropriate.
5. Preparing and signing the contract of sale.
6. Depositing the contract at the Department of Lands and Surveys.
7. Applying for permission to acquire the property.
8. Completing the agreed payments and transferring the title when possible.

The exact procedure differs between resale properties, properties under construction and completed developments without separate title deeds.

What should British buyers check?

Before committing to a purchase, buyers should confirm:

• whether separate title deeds are available;
• whether mortgages or other encumbrances affect the property;
• whether planning and building permissions are in place;
• whether VAT applies;
• what is included in the agreed price;
• whether any alterations have been made without approval;

A low asking price should never replace proper legal and technical due diligence.

Buying with the right local support

Brexit has not prevented British citizens from buying property in Cyprus. It has simply introduced additional legal and immigration considerations.
At ICARUS Real Estate, we help buyers understand the available locations and properties across Protaras, Ayia Napa and the east coast of Cyprus. We also coordinate the purchasing process with independent lawyers, banks and other qualified professionals, helping clients save time and avoid unnecessary complications.

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Konstantinos Papadopoulos — Co-Founder, ICARUS Real Estate

Thinking about buying property in Cyprus? Speak directly with Konstantinos for straightforward local guidance.

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Disclaimer

This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, immigration or financial advice. Laws, procedures and eligibility requirements may change, and each case should be reviewed individually. Buyers should obtain independent advice from a qualified lawyer, tax adviser and immigration professional in Cyprus before making any decision.