Short-Term Rental – Lucrative but Regulated

Airbnb/Booking.com booming with 3.5M+ tourists yearly. Returns 4-7% gross. But clear rules since 2019 and new tax framework since 2026 reform.

CTO Registration – Mandatory

Every holiday rental must be registered with the Cyprus Tourism Organisation. Application: ownership proof, floor plan, photos, fire safety, on-site inspection. Processing: 4-8 weeks. Minimum standards: AC, hot water, smoke detectors.

This was exactly our experience: com booming with 3.5M+ tourists yearly. Returns 4-7% gross.

– Tenant from Nuremberg, in Limassol since 2023

Tax Treatment Since 2026

SDC on rental income abolished. Only income tax (0-35%). 20% flat wear-and-tear deduction or actual costs. VAT registration required above €15,600 turnover (9% reduced rate for tourism).

Via a Limited Company

Above ~€30,000 annual income almost always worthwhile: 15% corporate tax often lower than personal rate. Below: personal taxation simpler. CMC provides individual calculations.

Practical Tips

Special short-term rental insurance €200-500/year. Property management: 15-20% of income. High season April-October. Check municipal regulations. Reviews decide your success.

Airbnb Short-Term Rental in Cyprus

Topics: Short-Term Rental – Lucrative but Regulated, CTO Registration – Mandatory, Tax Treatment Since 2026

CMC Practical Tip

Practical Tips Special short-term rental insurance €200-500/year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license?

Yes – CTO registration mandatory. CMC assists with application.

How much tax on rental income?

Since 2026: only income tax (0-35%) on profit. SDC abolished. 20% flat deduction or actual costs.

Worth a Limited for rental?

Above ~€30,000/year almost always. CMC provides individual calculations.

What if my lease prohibits subletting?

Many leases prohibit it. Without landlord consent you risk termination.

How CMC Supports You

At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.

As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.

Further Reading