Redomiciliation vs Migration of entities in Cyprus: a simple guide

In the world of business, change is constant. Companies move, adapt and restructure to stay competitive, access new markets and optimise operations. If you are thinking about Cyprus, you are in good company. Its strategic location, solid legal framework and attractive tax regime make it a preferred destination for international businesses.

At STAVROUCPA, we often get asked about two terms that are sometimes confused: redomiciliation and migration. They are related, but they serve different purposes and follow slightly different paths. Understanding the difference can aasist your company avoid unnecessary headaches, extra expenses and unexpected delays.

Redomiciliation: Moving Without Losing Your Identity

Think of redomiciliation as relocating your business home while keeping your furniture, assets and contracts exactly where they are! Your company remains the same legal entity. Only the jurisdiction that governs it changes. Foreign companies can apply to continue as a Cyprus entity under the same name, or a new one if preferred. For sure you will need:

·        Proof of good standing in the current jurisdiction,

·        Corporate documents confirming compliance with local laws,

·        Directors’ affidavit confirming solvency, truthfulness and absence of pending issues, and

·        Additional approvals if the company is licensed, public or listed.

Once approved, the Cyprus Registrar issues a Temporary Certificate of Continuance. Within six to nine months, you submit evidence of de-registration in your original jurisdiction to receive the Final Certificate of Continuance, and your company is officially Cypriot! 

Moving a Cypriot Company Abroad

A Cyprus company can continue in another jurisdiction if allowed. 

Key steps include:

·        Shareholder approval via special resolution,

·        Directors’ solvency declaration,

·        Settlement of taxes and obligations,

·        Publishing the resolution locally,

·        Obtaining consent from the new jurisdiction, if required

After submitting the final certificate from the foreign jurisdiction, Cyprus removes the company from its registry.

Migration: Strategic Relocation to Cyprus

Migration is about moving your company’s legal seat to Cyprus—usually for strategic, financial, or tax reasons—while keeping everything else intact. Assets, contracts, and obligations remain unaffected. There’s no need for liquidation or forming a new entity.

Why Businesses Choose Cyprus

·        Access to the EU internal market,

·        Stability amid geopolitical changes (think Brexit),

·        Attractive tax regime and extensive double tax treaties,

·        Common law system that supports corporate governance and restructuring,

·        A cost-effective and streamlined process compared to liquidation and re-incorporation.

How Migration Works

Under Section 354B of the Cyprus Companies Law, Cap. 113:

·        Submit corporate approvals, certificates of good standing and director affidavits,

·        Obtain necessary licenses if your business requires them,

·        Receive a Temporary Certificate of Continuance, then provide proof of cessation in the original jurisdiction,

·        Register existing charges within 42 days,

·        Obtain the Final Certificate of Continuance.

Redomiciliation vs Migration: At a Glance

The STAVROUCPA Take

At STAVROUCPA, we see companies every day that benefit immensely from Cyprus’ corporate flexibility. Both redomiciliation and migration allow you to move your company without losing its identity—but they serve different goals.

The key takeaway? Cyprus offers a path to stability and efficiency—but only if done correctly. Engaging expert guidance ensures compliance, preserves corporate history and maximizes the advantages of your move.

If you are considering redomiciliation or migration, STAVROUCPA is here to guide you step by step—making the complex simple and the legal straightforward. Feel free to contact us for further guidance.