Economic Substance Rules in Cyprus

In response to global efforts to curb tax avoidance and ensure that profits are reported where economic activities are actually carried out, Cyprus has implemented Economic Substance Rules. These rules are designed to ensure that companies claiming tax residency in Cyprus have substantial economic activities within the country. This article explores the background, key requirements, implications, and compliance measures related to Economic Substance Rules in Cyprus.

Background of Economic Substance Rules

Global Context

The Economic Substance Rules in Cyprus align with international initiatives led by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the European Union (EU) to combat base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS). These initiatives aim to prevent companies from shifting profits to low or no-tax jurisdictions without corresponding economic activities.

Cyprus’s Response

As a member of the EU and a signatory to OECD frameworks, Cyprus introduced Economic Substance Rules to comply with international standards and maintain its reputation as a credible business hub. These rules came into effect in January 2019 and apply to companies engaged in relevant activities.

Key Requirements of Economic Substance Rules

Scope of Application

The Economic Substance Rules apply to companies engaged in the following relevant activities:

1. Banking
2. Insurance
3. Shipping
4. Holding Companies
5. Headquarters Operations
6. Distribution and Service Centers
7. Financing and Leasing
8. Intellectual Property (IP) Holding
9. Fund Management

Core Income Generating Activities (CIGA)

To meet the economic substance requirements, companies must conduct Core Income Generating Activities (CIGA) in Cyprus. CIGA refers to activities that are essential to generating the income of the business. Examples of CIGA include:

• Banking: Raising funds, managing risk, taking hedging positions.
• Insurance: Predicting and calculating risk, insuring or re-insuring against risk.
• Shipping: Managing crew, overseeing ship maintenance, handling shipping logistics.
• Holding Companies: Holding and managing equity participations.
• IP Holding: Research and development, exploiting and managing IP assets.
• Financing and Leasing: Arranging and negotiating financing, setting terms and duration of loans.

Physical Presence and Personnel

Companies must demonstrate substantial activities in Cyprus by having:

• An adequate number of qualified employees physically present in Cyprus.
• A suitable physical office space in Cyprus.
• Direct and active management and control from Cyprus.

Financial and Operational Criteria

Companies must incur adequate operational expenses in Cyprus that are commensurate with the scale of their activities. This includes expenses related to personnel, office rental, and other operational costs.

Reporting and Compliance

Companies subject to the Economic Substance Rules must annually report their economic activities and demonstrate compliance. This includes:

• Providing detailed information on CIGA conducted in Cyprus.
• Reporting on the number of employees, physical office space, and incurred expenses.
• Submitting annual financial statements and other relevant documentation to the tax authorities.

Implications of Non-Compliance

Penalties

Failure to comply with the Economic Substance Rules can result in significant penalties, including:

• Financial Penalties: Companies may face fines for non-compliance, which can be substantial depending on the severity of the breach.
• Striking Off: Persistent non-compliance can lead to the company being struck off the registry, effectively terminating its legal status.

Reputational Risk

Non-compliance can harm a company’s reputation, making it less attractive to investors, clients, and business partners. It can also lead to increased scrutiny from tax authorities and regulatory bodies.

Compliance Measures

1. Conduct an Internal Audit

Companies should conduct an internal audit to assess their current compliance with the Economic Substance Rules. This involves reviewing their business activities, operational presence, and financial expenditures in Cyprus.

2. Enhance Physical Presence

Ensure that the company has a suitable office space and an adequate number of qualified employees in Cyprus. Consider relocating key management personnel to Cyprus to strengthen local oversight and control.

3. Document and Report

Maintain detailed records of all CIGA conducted in Cyprus and ensure accurate and timely reporting to the tax authorities. This includes preparing and submitting annual financial statements and other required documentation.

4. Seek Professional Advice

Engage with legal, tax, and business consultants who specialize in Cyprus’s Economic Substance Rules. Professional advisors can provide guidance on compliance strategies and help navigate the regulatory landscape.

The Economic Substance Rules in Cyprus are part of a global effort to promote tax transparency and ensure that profits are aligned with real economic activities. Companies operating in Cyprus must understand these rules and take proactive steps to comply. By enhancing their physical presence, conducting core income-generating activities, and maintaining rigorous documentation, businesses can meet the economic substance requirements and continue to benefit from Cyprus’s favorable business environment.