Cyprus’s Short-Term Rental Boom Spurs Sweeping Regulatory Overhaul

Rapid Market Expansion

In a dramatic shift within the Cypriot tourism sector, short-term rental properties have surged sixfold in under three years. With an estimated 12,000 to 13,000 properties on the market, only 8,375 currently comply with registration requirements enacted in July 2021. This unprecedented growth is prompting authorities to tighten regulatory oversight and reinforce tax compliance measures.

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Key Trends and Regional Hubs

Data submitted by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism illustrates a notable upward trend: 4,765 accommodations were recorded by April 2023, providing 21,636 beds. This figure increased to 7,001 by April 2024 and reached 8,375 units by mid-May 2025. Leading the charge are Paphos and Famagusta, which together account for over two-thirds of the registered listings. Paphos boasts 3,957 rental units with 17,802 beds, while Famagusta follows with 1,702 properties and 8,728 beds. Other regions, including Larnaca, Limassol, and Nicosia, maintain substantial yet comparatively lower numbers.

Enhanced Enforcement and Compliance

The regulatory framework mandates that only officially registered properties, displaying their unique registration number in all advertisements, may be leased. Digital platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com are compelled to enforce these rules, facing stringent penalties for unregistered listings. Since the commencement of inspections, authorities have documented 52 complaints against unlicensed operators, and the Tax Department has initiated focused audits addressing VAT, income tax, and other contributions.

Legislative Reform and Future Directions

In an effort to align national practices with an impending EU regulation due to be enforced on May 20, 2026, the parliamentary Commerce Committee is reviewing a landmark bill. This legislation will require platforms to provide regular, detailed reports on short-term rentals and compel landlords to disclose registration details transparently. The Deputy Ministry of Tourism is set to act as the principal regulatory authority, ensuring adherence to data registration and compliance requirements.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Global Investment Migration: Leading Residence And Citizenship Programs For 2026

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 24, 2026

European Dominance Challenged By Global Contenders

The 2026 edition of the Henley & Partners Residence and Citizenship Programs report shows increasing competition in the investment migration market. European programs, traditionally seen as the global benchmark, are now facing stronger competition from jurisdictions in the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean as countries expand offerings aimed at attracting capital and internationally mobile investors.

New Entrants And Rapid Climbers Reshape The Landscape

Malta remains ranked first in the Global Citizenship Program Index for the 11th consecutive year, while Greece retains the top position in the Global Residence Program Index. At the same time, several jurisdictions improved their standings. The UAE moved from fifth to a joint second position, entering the top three for the first time. Countries including Costa Rica, New Zealand, Panama, and Singapore also gained ground, while Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and the Maldives appeared as new entrants.

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Competing For Capital And Global Talent

Governments increasingly use residence and citizenship frameworks as tools to attract foreign investment and entrepreneurial talent. According to Henley & Partners Chairman Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Europe remains a strong player, but countries such as Singapore and the UAE are accelerating reforms to strengthen their appeal to globally mobile investors.

Established Leaders And Agile Newcomers In Citizenship Programs

The Global Citizenship Program Index continues to be led by established programs. Malta’s citizenship-by-merit framework scored 77 points, maintaining its leading position, while Austria followed with a highly selective model. Programs in Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Nauru also received strong rankings. New entrants such as São Tomé and Príncipe and Samoa reflect a broader expansion of citizenship-based offerings.

European Consolidation And Emerging Residence Hubs

In the residence category, Greece remains first, supported by EU access and lifestyle advantages. Italy, Switzerland, and the UAE continue to compete closely, combining tax efficiency with investor-oriented policies. Portugal and Australia maintain strong positions, while Uruguay is emerging as a stable option with growing international interest.

Performance Metrics And Strategic Advantages

Both indexes evaluate 40 programs across factors including reputation, quality of life, compliance standards, investment requirements, and tax considerations. Austria and Malta scored strongly on program quality, while the UAE ranked highly in lifestyle and tax competitiveness. The rankings highlight how jurisdictions are positioning themselves to attract globally mobile capital.

Wealth On The Move

The report points to a broader shift in global wealth mobility. According to Dominic Volek, Group Head of Private Clients at Henley & Partners, investors increasingly prioritize stability, transparency, and clear long-term pathways when choosing residence or citizenship options.

As global uncertainty persists, residence and citizenship programs are increasingly viewed not only as investment tools but as strategic instruments for long-term mobility and risk diversification.

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