Cyprus Fast-Track Building Licences: What Homebuyers and Investors Need to Know

The Cyprus government recently announced a streamlined system for building licences, aiming to reduce bureaucracy and bolster homeownership. According to Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, this new approach can deliver a final permit in just 40 working days—20 days for the town planning approval and another 20 for the building licence.

The process targets single and duplex residences deemed “low risk,” specifically those on registered plots or plots awaiting official registration. Launched in October, this initiative is designed to lighten the workload of local authorities, allowing them more time to conduct proper site inspections.

Applying Through ‘Ippodamos’

Architects must use the Ippodamos electronic system to submit applications. If the local authority does not respond within 20 working days, the permit is automatically granted. So far, 332 applications were filed—242 processed, with 223 approvals and 26 rejections—while the rest are still under review.

To further broaden the reform, the government plans to include “medium-risk” developments by March. This expansion covers rows of up to a dozen houses or four-storey blocks with as many as 20 apartments, aiming for an 80-day turnaround.

Self-Monitoring and Inspections

A “self-monitoring” mechanism places responsibility on architects, backed by “on-site checks” from authorized building inspectors. These inspections occur at three pivotal stages of construction, enforcing adherence to regulations. Until official rules are set, the ministry and ETEK (the scientific and technical chamber) will use an interim list of accredited inspectors.

Minister Ioannou believes this transformation could make properties more attainable, especially for younger families. However, challenges remain with the “Ippodamos” platform—namely slower processing speeds and design limitations. This shift in licensing may also spark new opportunities for those exploring growing real estate segments, including Cheap Houses and Villas for Sale Cyprus and potential Villas investments.