Introduction

A freelance business is typically owned and operated by one individual. Freelance business offers a great deal of freedom, as the business owner is not accountable to partners and does not need to share any profits.

Freelance business V Limited company

A freelance business can do everything a limited company can do; employ staff; sign contract; enter into loans with banks, register for VAT, register as trading name and so on. A limited company, however, can confer some prestige and reliability but the main difference is that a limited company provides “limited liability” to the owners of the company. It can also be tax advantageous to have a Ltd company if the income and profit and substantial enough.

Operating as a freelancer is less expensive as there are zero setup / incorporation costs and no requirement for annual audited accounts if the revenue is below €70.000. Moreover, your first €19,500 of income is tax-free. Tax rates then start at 20% and rise progressively to 35% for income over €60,000. The profits of limited companies are taxed at a flat rate of 12.5%.

Benefits for non-Cypriot freelancers

One of the greatest advantages that individuals from EU and EFTA (European Free Trade Association) countries have when setting up a freelance business in Cyprus is that they do not need a work or residence permit in Cyprus. Non-EU/EFTA citizens, however, are required to apply for work and residence permits before coming to Cyprus.

Both, individuals from EU and Non-EU countries, may claim their non-domiciled status and be exempted from defence tax for 17 years.

The defence tax applies to worldwide investment income of individuals who are resident and domiciled in Cyprus, at the following rates.

• Interest – 30% (reduced to 3% if your income is less than €12,000)
• Dividends 17%
• Rental income – 3% (on 75% of gross income)

 Conclusion

Freelance business in Cyprus may be ideal in some cases, but analysis of the circumstances of each case are required before a safe decision is made. Therefore, it is highly recommended that the advice of a local specialist is sought.