Breaking news

Tax Authority to Administer Refunds on Excess Healthcare Contributions Over €180,000

Overview Of The New Refund Process

The Health Insurance Organization (OAY) has announced that any contributions exceeding €180,000 paid into the General Healthcare System Fund (ΓΕΣΥ) for contribution years commencing on or after January 1, 2025 will be refunded directly by the Tax Office, in accordance with the Tax Confirmation and Collection Law. This marks a significant shift in the administrative process, transferring responsibility from OAY to the Tax Office for these specific cases.

Refund Procedures And Guidelines

For contributions pertaining to the year that ends on or before December 31, 2024, the refund process will continue to be handled by OAY based on the existing decisions on refunds for amounts exceeding the maximum contributions.

Extended Submission Period Under Revised Regulations

The announcement further clarifies that, in light of the amendments detailed in the 2025 decisions published in the Official Gazette on September 5, 2025, the deadline for submitting refund requests to OAY has been extended. Specifically, each refund claim must now be submitted within six years after the conclusion of the contribution year in question.

Accessing The New Refund Form

Interested parties seeking to file a refund claim for contributions exceeding €180,000 can obtain the new form directly from the OAY website under the GEΣΥ/Financial and General Accounting section. Detailed instructions and a direct hyperlink are provided for ease of access.

Implications For Contributors

This regulatory update streamlines the refund process and reinforces a robust oversight mechanism in line with current fiscal policies. Organizations and individuals alike should note these changes to ensure compliance and timely submission of claims, thereby avoiding any potential administrative delays.

Famagusta Expands Digital Tourism Strategy For 2026

Overview Of The Campaign

Famagusta is poised to redefine its international tourism appeal with a sweeping digital marketing campaign set for 2026. The initiative aims to enhance the region’s global image, drive an uptick in tourist arrivals, and extend the peak season well beyond the traditional summer months.

Strategic Partnerships And Collaboration

For the third consecutive year, the campaign is being masterminded by the Famagusta Hoteliers Association in tandem with Etap Famagusta, the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, and the municipalities of Ayia Napa and Paralimni-Deryneia. Notably, the campaign benefits from the support of key financial institutions, including the Bank of Cyprus, alongside a growing network of tourism professionals and local businesses.

Target Markets And Digital Focus

Utilizing advanced digital marketing tools and robust online advertising, the campaign zeroes in on pivotal European markets such as the United Kingdom, Poland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Sweden, while also reaching prospective tourists in the broader Eastern Mediterranean region. The multi-channel strategy encompasses international social media, digital media platforms, search engines, and specialized tourism websites.

Emphasizing Unique And Year-Round Attractions

The promotional efforts highlight Famagusta’s award-winning beaches, state-of-the-art tourism infrastructure, and the region’s authentic Cypriot hospitality and gastronomy. Special emphasis is placed on a modern tourism product through curated audiovisual materials, thematic content, and initiatives that promote cultural events, sports, and family-oriented as well as experiential holidays across hotspots such as Protaras and Ayia Napa.

A Vision For Sustainable Growth

In line with Etap Famagusta’s ongoing strategy to position the district as a world-class destination, this digital initiative reflects a forward-thinking approach to tourism promotion. By harnessing innovative, targeted tools, Famagusta is set to secure its reputation as a modern, multi-dimensional destination offering quality experiences throughout the year.


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