How to Get a Mortgage for a Property in Cyprus (2024)

Looking to use a mortgage for a property in Cyprus? Read our guide for everything you need to know.

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How to Get a Mortgage for a Property in Cyprus (1) How to Get a Mortgage for a Property in Cyprus (2) How to Get a Mortgage for a Property in Cyprus (3)

How to Get a Mortgage for a Property in Cyprus (7)

Author: Pete Mugleston- Mortgage Advisor, MD

Updated: May 15, 2023

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Buying a property worth a minimum of €300,000 in Cyprus allows you to get a permanent residency permit and, after five years, become a citizen. It’s a popular way for foreigners to get EU citizenship.

Of course, that’s not the only reason to buy a property in Cyprus, a country that has hot summers, mild winters, delicious food, and stunning scenery. Whatever your reason for buying in Cyprus, we’ll explain what you need to know about getting an overseas mortgage.

What are you looking for?

How to Get a Mortgage for a Property in Cyprus (8) We’ll cover the following topics…

  • Can UK residents get a mortgage in Cyprus?
  • Rules and lending criteria
  • How much could you borrow?
  • How to get a mortgage in Cyprus
  • Which lenders offer mortgages for properties in Cyprus?
  • Typical interest rates
  • Can you get a buy-to-let mortgage in Cyprus?
  • Speak to an expert

Can UK residents get a mortgage in Cyprus?

Yes. If you’re a UK resident who is planning to move to Cyprus, or if you’ve already relocated but have lived there for less than five years, you can get a non-resident housing loan (note that the term ‘housing loan’ is more widely used than ‘mortgage’ in Cyprus).

It’s also possible to get a housing loan for a second home (e.g. a holiday home) without moving to Cyprus, if you meet the affordability requirements. You can’t usually get a housing loan for an investment property (e.g. a holiday let) if you’re not a permanent resident.

Non-EU citizens (including British citizens) will need to get a permit to buy property before applying for a mortgage. This is a new requirement since Brexit. The permit is required to buy an apartment, a house, or a plot of land.

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Rules, deposits, and lending criteria

Mortgage rules in Cyprus are similar to many other parts of Europe, but with some specific additions:

  • Your mortgage term can be between 10 and 40 years, depending on your age
  • The maximum age (at the end of the mortgage term) is 65
  • Non-residents will typically need a deposit of 30-40%, while residents will need 10-30%
  • You’ll need proof of a stable income
  • You should be planning to live in the property you’re buying
  • You won’t be allowed to use the property for commercial purposes (e.g. a holiday let)
  • Unmarried couples cannot have a joint mortgage
  • Variable rates and fixed rates are both available. Fixed rates usually last for longer periods than in the UK, e.g. 5 or 10 years.

How much could you borrow?

There is a rule in Cyprus that your monthly mortgage repayments can be no more than one-third of your overall monthly income (or combined monthly income in the case of joint applications). This will be the main limiting factor on how much you can borrow.

You can use our calculator below to see how this may work out for you by simply inputting some information about the property you’re looking to buy. Once the repayment is calculated you can check that amount versus your monthly income to see if it is below the required parameter.

How to Get a Mortgage for a Property in Cyprus (10)

Mortgage Repayment Calculator

Our mortgage repayment calculator can tell you how much your mortgage will cost you each month and overall. Enter the amount you’re borrowing, the term length and interest rate, and our calculator will do the rest.

This is an interest only mortgage

Monthly Repayments:

Total amount paid at end of term:

Get started with an expert broker to find out how much they could help you save on your mortgage repayments.

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How to Get a Mortgage for a Property in Cyprus (11)

How to get a mortgage in Cyprus

Be prepared that the process of getting a mortgage in Cyprus can be more time-consuming than in the UK and it favours citizens over non-citizens. It will be easiest if you follow the three steps below.

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Get a permit to buy property

You’ll need to submit an application to the Council of Ministers for your permit to buy property. These are almost always granted, and are seen by many as a formality, but you’ll need to have it in place before you move forward.

Speak to a Cyprus mortgage specialist

It can be difficult to find a lender who offers housing loans to foreigners for properties in Cyprus, and you’ll find it much easier if you work with a broker. It can also be reassuring to work with someone who is based in the UK but who has previous experience of mortgage applications in Cyprus, so they can guide you through it. To speak to a broker today, contact us.

Prepare the necessary documents

Non-residents will need an extensive list of documents for their housing loan application, and these will need to be translated and certified. So, it makes sense to prepare these in advance, for all applicants. Your broker can help ensure everything is in order. You’ll need:

  • Passport and certified copies
  • Permit to buy property
  • Contract of sale
  • Developer guarantee (for new-build properties)
  • Property valuation
  • Income statements, e.g. payslips
  • A copy of your (clean) criminal record
  • Copies of ownership documents for property, vehicles, and other valuables
  • Tax returns for the past three years
  • A letter of recommendation from your bank
  • Bank statements for the past three years
  • Explanation for significant movement of funds in and out of all accounts for the past three years

Which lenders offer mortgages for properties in Cyprus?

Options are limited, as there are only a few major banks in Cyprus, including the Bank of Cyprus, Hellenic Bank, and AstroBank. Housing loans may also be available from other lenders, such as credit unions.

Your options may be further limited depending on whether you’re planning to buy in either North or South Cyprus (both regions have been deemed separate administrative territories since 1974), with the presence of international banks restricted in Northern Cyprus.

The low availability of mortgages makes it difficult to find one without expert help. A broker will tell you what your options are, as well as helping you to prove you’re a low-risk borrower (since lenders automatically see foreign buyers as higher risk).

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Typical interest rates

Cyprus tends to have lower mortgage rates than the UK. At the time of writing (January 2023), typical rates are around 3-4%, though rates for non-residents may be 1-1.5% higher. Your rate will depend on the duration of the loan, the loan amount, and the size of your deposit.

Can you get a buy-to-let mortgage in Cyprus?

No, buy-to-let mortgages are not available to non-residents. You will usually need to declare as part of your mortgage application that the property won’t be used for any commercial purposes.

Speak to an expert about Cyprus mortgages

When you’re buying abroad, there’s always a slightly increased risk that you’ll be exposed to property scams or unscrupulous dealings. Unfortunately, there have been instances of mortgage broker fraud in recent years. So, you’ll want a good, English-speaking solicitor on your side and an excellent international broker.

We work with numerous brokers who have international experience in Cyprus. If you’d like us to match you with someone based on this requirement, get in touch by calling 0808 189 2301 or fill out this form.

About the author

Pete, an expert in all things mortgages, cut his teeth right in the middle of the credit crunch. With plenty of people needing help and few mortgage providers lending, Pete found great success in going the extra mile to find mortgages for people whom many others considered lost causes. The experience he gained, coupled with his love of helping people reach their goals, led him to establish Online Mortgage Advisor, with one clear vision – to help as many customers as possible get the right advice, regardless of need or background.

Pete’s presence in the industry as the ‘go-to’ for specialist finance continues to grow, and he is regularly cited in and writes for both local and national press, as well as trade publications, with a regular column in Mortgage Introducer and being the exclusive mortgage expert for LOVEMoney. Pete also writes for OMA of course!

Read more about Pete

Pete Mugleston

Mortgage Advisor, MD

FCA disclaimer

*Based on our research, the content contained in this article is accurate as of the most recent time of writing. Lender criteria and policies change regularly so speak to one of the advisors we work with to confirm the most accurate up to date information. The information on the siteis not tailored advice to each individual reader, and as such does not constitute financial advice. All advisors working with us are fully qualified to provide mortgage advice and work only for firms who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. They will offer any advice specific to you and your needs.

Some types of buy to let mortgages are not regulated by the FCA. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. As a mortgage is secured against your home, it may be repossessed if you do not keep up with repayments on your mortgage. Equity released from your home will also be secured against it.

How to Get a Mortgage for a Property in Cyprus (2024)

FAQs

Can I get a mortgage to buy a house in Cyprus? ›

The Bank will provide a mortgage in Cyprus. It is easiest to get a loan approval if your down payment is at least 50% of the property value.

Is it easy to get a mortgage in Cyprus? ›

The mortgage market in Cyprus is similar to other European countries and many applications have positive approval rates and here, you'll find out about the mortgage process, requirements, and risks of getting a mortgage in Cyprus.

How much deposit do you need for a mortgage in Cyprus? ›

Cyprus residents can get a 80% mortgage, EU residents are required to place a minimum deposit of 20% to 40%. For non-EU residnets, the minimum amount of deposit is usually 30% - 40% of the purchase price. Arrangement fee: All of the banks charge arrangement fees. Most charge 0.75% to 1.0% of the amount of the mortgage.

What is the average mortgage rate in Cyprus? ›

For that indicator, we provide data for Cyprus from November 2007 to March 2023. The average value for Cyprus during that period was 4.25 percent with a minimum of 1.65 percent in April 2021 and a maximum of 6.65 percent in November 2013.

Can an American buy a house in Cyprus? ›

Permission to acquire immovable property in Cyprus

Cypriots and EU citizens are entitled to buy immovable property without any restrictions. Non-EU citizens can buy immovable property, however, permission from the Council of Ministers is required.

How much is a downpayment on a house in Cyprus? ›

Basic information about mortgages in Cyprus

The scheme of mortgage lending on the island is the same as in any other country. The borrower must make an initial payment, and the bank pays the seller the rest of the money. As a rule, the minimum down payment in Cyprus is 20% of the value of the property.

What is the loan rate in Cyprus? ›

Mortgage Rates
RatePointsAPR
5.875%0.375%6.518%
6.000%0.000%6.608%
6.125%0.000%6.736%

How long can you stay in Cyprus if you own a property? ›

Once you purchase a property in Cyprus you automatically have a right for a multi-visa for up to 5 years. This visa will allow you multiple entry for stay up to 180 days per year and up to 90 days within every 6 months period.

How long does it take to buy a house in Cyprus? ›

How much time does it take to buy a property in Cyprus? Typically, most conveyancing transactions in Cyprus take anywhere from 3 to 6 months. We conclude most of our straightforward transactions in around 30-45 days.

Is it worth buying property in Cyprus? ›

If you purchase a Cypriot property, you'll be able to enjoy reduced income tax rates, as well as exemptions on capital gains and inheritance taxes. These benefits make Cyprus an appealing destination for investment opportunities through a property purchases.

Can I live in Cyprus if I buy a property? ›

It is also possible to buy a house in Cyprus and get citizenship. A residency by property investment permit gives the holder the right to apply for citizenship after 5 years of actual stay in Cyprus, out of a total number of 7 years. The holder must stay a full number of 1825 days on the island (5 x 365).

What is the fixed deposit rate in Cyprus? ›

Choose the Fixed Term Deposit interest rate that suits you:
  • 3 Months Term Deposit. 0.10%
  • 6 Months Term Deposit. 0.25%
  • 9 Months Term Deposit. 0.60%
  • 12 Months Term Deposit. 1.00%
  • 18 Months Term Deposit. 1.25%
  • 24 Months Term Deposit. 1.50%

Can foreigners get a mortgage in Cyprus? ›

It is possible to get a mortgage in Cyprus not only for EU/EEA citizens, but even for foreigners. Cyprus rates can be from 1.9% to 7.5%, so for many buyers, mortgages are an excellent option when buying a home on the island.

Are house prices rising in Cyprus? ›

Cyprus house prices grew 6.3% YoY in Sep 2022, following an increase of 4.7% YoY in the previous quarter. YoY growth data is updated quarterly, available from Mar 2007 to Sep 2022, with an average growth rate of 0.1%.

What is Cyprus mortgage to rent scheme? ›

The mortgage-to-rent agreement entails a minimum of 14-year payment duration, while borrowers could submit a proposal to acquire the property after five years. Beneficiaries over 65 will not be given a specific timeframe to pay off their mortgage.

How long can a US citizen live in Cyprus? ›

As soon as you arrive in Cyprus on a student visa, you must apply at the Cyprus Migration Department for a temporary residence permit. This permit lets you legally live and study in Cyprus for over 90 days.

How long can a US citizen stay in Cyprus? ›

You may enter the Republic of Cyprus for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without a visa. For stays longer than 90 days, you will need a temporary residency visa.

What are the pitfalls in buying property in Cyprus? ›

  • Not getting independent legal advice before putting up an offer/ paying deposit.
  • Making an emotional decision or putting up an offer too soon.
  • Not budgeting for all expenses involved in the purchase and preparing the documents required for the transfer of funds.
  • Not making a proper inspection of the property for sale.

How much is property tax in Cyprus? ›

Cyprus property taxes and rates vary depending on which Municipality/Council the property is located. Municipality / village council taxes in Cyprus roughly range from about €90 to €300 annually, depending on the size of the property.

How much tax do I pay on a house sale in Cyprus? ›

Resident company. The sale of shares in a company that owns real estate situated in Cyprus is subject to capital gains tax at the rate of 20%. Upon the transfer of real estate, the seller is obliged to pay a levy of 0.40% to the Tax Department.

Which area in Cyprus is best to buy property? ›

Top 8 Places to Buy Real Estate in Cyprus
  1. Lefkoşa (Nicosia) Nicosia, also known as Lefkoşa, is the capital of Cyprus, a beautiful Mediterranean island country. ...
  2. Limasol (Limassol) ...
  3. Larnaka (Larnaca) ...
  4. Gazimağusa (Famagusta) ...
  5. Girne (Kyrenia) ...
  6. İskele (Trikomo) ...
  7. Beylerbeyi (Bellapais) ...
  8. Baf (Paphos)
May 23, 2023

What is Cyprus credit rating? ›

Cyprus Credit Rating
Rating AgencyRatingOutlook
Standard & Poor'sBBB-
Moody's Investors ServiceBa1positive
Fitch RatingsBBB-
DBRSBBB-

What is a decent loan rate? ›

How do you know if the interest rate you're offered is good for you? A good personal loan interest rate depends on your credit score: 740 and above: Below 8% (look for loans for excellent credit) 670 to 739: Around 14% (look for loans for good credit)

Which country has the highest loan rate? ›

United States. The United States boasts both the world's biggest national debt in terms of dollar amount and its largest economy, which resolves to a debt-to GDP ratio of approximately 128.13%.

How do I move to Cyprus from USA? ›

How To Move To Cyprus The complete guide!
  • Find A Job. ...
  • Apply For A Visa/Permit. ...
  • Get Health Insurance. ...
  • Rent Or Buy Property. ...
  • Move Your Belongings. ...
  • Register For Healthcare. ...
  • Open A Bank Account. ...
  • Transfer Money.

How much money do you need to get residency in Cyprus? ›

Requirements for Cyprus Residency by Investment

You must make a €30,000 deposit into a bank in Cyprus. The money will be kept for three years. You must prove you have an annual income of at least €30,000 for yourself, and another €5,000 for every dependent (spouse and children).

How much money do you need to retire in Cyprus? ›

For retirees, the best option is the Category F residence permit, granted to persons with a secured annual income from outside Cyprus. The minimum is about EUR 10,000 annually, with an additional EUR 5,000 for each dependent family member. This type of residence permit does not give you the right to work.

Where is the cheapest place to live in Cyprus? ›

Overall, the cheapest city to live in Cyprus is Paphos, with the most expensive being Limassol largely due to the high costs of rent and housing.

How much does it cost to get title deeds in Cyprus? ›

When registering a Title to secondary real estate, it is necessary to pay a state fee, which is called the Property transfer Fee and is calculated in the following way: From the first 85 thousand euros — 3%. From 85 thousand euros to 170 thousand euros — 5%. From the amount of over 175 thousand euros — 8%.

What are the benefits of owning property in Cyprus? ›

Advantages of a permanent residence permit in Cyprus: high standard of living, simplified taxation system, possibility of doing business. After 5 years, the investor will be able to obtain Cypriot citizenship and travel without a visa to 170 countries of the world, including Great Britain and the EU.

Which part of Cyprus is best to live? ›

The 7 Best Places to Live In Cyprus
  • Limassol. ...
  • Paphos. ...
  • Peyia and Tala. ...
  • Akamas Peninsula/Polis, a base for lovers of nature. ...
  • Coral Bay, great place to stay in Cyprus for everyone. ...
  • Nicosia. ...
  • Larnaca.
Jun 6, 2022

What are the disadvantages of living in Cyprus? ›

A disadvantage of living in Cyprus is its lack of public transportation. While you may be able to get by without a car if you live in the center of Paphos, those residing further out will need a car. There is no train system on the island, so those wishing to make do on public transport will have to rely on buses.

Is Cyprus a good country to retire? ›

Add to that, welcoming locals, sunshine, ancient history, and romance, and it's easy to see why Cyprus is quickly becoming a popular retirement destination for expats from around the globe.

How long can I stay in Cyprus without residency? ›

You can travel to Cyprus for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit for family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.

Can I move to Cyprus permanently? ›

Permanent residence after 5 years: Those who stay in the country on a temporary visa for five years or more can apply for a permanent residence permit. Permanent residency by marriage: If you are moving to Cyprus because you are married to, or you plan to marry a Cypriot, you can apply for permanent residency.

How can I live permanently in Cyprus? ›

A Permanent resident of Cyprus after completing five years (total of 1825 days) of legal stay in Cyprus is entitled to apply for Cyprus Citizenship. This is the naturalization scheme based on years of residence (M127). A residency card is obtained within two months through the fast-track process.

Which bank is best in Cyprus? ›

Here are the biggest and most trusted banks in Cyprus.
  • The Cyprus Development bank. ...
  • CCS – The Cooperative Credit Sector. ...
  • RCB Bank. ...
  • Co-operative Central Bank Group (CCB) ...
  • Eurobank Cyprus Ltd. ...
  • Astrobank Limited. ...
  • Alpha Bank Cyprus Limited. ...
  • Societe Generale Bank – Cyprus Ltd.

Which is the safest bank in Cyprus? ›

Η Eurobank Κύπρου διακρίθηκε με το βραβείο ”Best Private Bank in Cyprus“, για το 2021, από το έγκριτο διεθνές περιοδικό Euromoney, επικυρώνοντας το υψηλό επίπεδο των υπηρεσιών που προσφέρει και την ηγετική θέση που έχει εδραιώσει στον τομέα του Private Banking.

Is the Bank of Cyprus a good bank? ›

We receive the award of the Best Bank in Cyprus in Private Banking for 2023 from the prestigious Euromoney magazine with great honour.

Can a US citizen living abroad get a mortgage? ›

America Mortgages offers conforming loans to U.S. Expats living and working overseas. These loans are identical to walking into your local U.S. bank but very specific to earning your income abroad as an expat overseas.

Can I open a bank account in Cyprus as a foreigner? ›

Can A Foreigner Open A Bank Account In Cyprus? Yes, a foreigner can open a Cyprus bank account . . . even non-residents. Cypriot banks will still ask for proof of residence, but your address doesn't have to be in Cyprus.

Is it easy to buy a property in Cyprus? ›

Introduction. Purchasing property in Cyprus has a number of potential pitfalls. The British High Commission advises potential purchasers to exercise extreme caution when buying a property if the title deeds are not readily available, as it means your property could be at risk.

Will property prices fall in Cyprus? ›

This means that they are likely to stay in Cyprus for the long term, and will not be quick to leave. As a result, if there is no intervention from the government, it is unlikely that property prices will decrease significantly in the near future.

How much does a house cost in Cyprus? ›

How much costs housing in Cyprus in 2021. The price per square meter for a property in Cyprus ranges from €1,600 to €3,400.

Can I buy a property in Cyprus and rent it out? ›

If the property owner is not a tax resident in Cyprus, the rental income from real estate in Cyprus must be declared as “Cyprus-sourced income” in the country of tax residence. Important: Keep in mind that the VAT you pay when you purchase a property, determines if you are allowed to rent it out.

How difficult is it to buy property in Cyprus? ›

Most of the properties for sale in Northern Cyprus have very high risk involved for buyers, since ownership of the disputed properties there and the right to sell them remains contentious. Expats purchase real estate across four main cities in Southern Cyprus: Nicosia, Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos.

Is it wise to buy property in Cyprus? ›

If you purchase a Cypriot property, you'll be able to enjoy reduced income tax rates, as well as exemptions on capital gains and inheritance taxes. These benefits make Cyprus an appealing destination for investment opportunities through a property purchases.

What is the interest rate for loans in Cyprus? ›

Cyprus Bank Lending Rate was reported at 5.596 % pa in Mar 2023.

How much tax do you pay on property in Cyprus? ›

Cyprus property taxes and rates vary depending on which Municipality/Council the property is located. Municipality / village council taxes in Cyprus roughly range from about €90 to €300 annually, depending on the size of the property.

What is a good loan rate? ›

Average online personal loan rates by credit score
How's your credit?Score rangeEstimated APR
Excellent720-850.11.3%.
Good690-719.15.6%.
Fair630-689.22.3%.
Bad300-629.25.2%.
Jun 1, 2023

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