Double Taxation Dispute system inoculated in Cyprus relates to a double taxation dispute between Cyprus and one or more member state as to the taxing rights over the same profit. Cyprus On the 5th of December 2019 transposed EU Directive 2017/1852 of 10 October 2017 on tax dispute resolution mechanisms in the European Union . The EU-wide system:
Ensure that businesses and citizens can resolve disputes related to the interpretation and application of tax treaties more swiftly and effectively. The new rules also cover issues related to double taxation which occurs when two or more countries claim the right to tax the same income or profits of a company or person. This can happen, for example, due to a mismatch in national rules or different interpretations of the transfer pricing rules in a bilateral tax treaty. There are currently around 900 double taxation disputes in the EU and they are, estimated to be worth €10.5 billion. As such, taxpayers now enjoy enhanced legal certainty when it comes to seeking a solution to their cross-border tax disputes. In particular, a wider range of cases is covered and Member States have to comply with clear deadlines in order to agree on a binding solution, giving citizens and companies more timely decisions.
Law 151(I)/2019 Law amending the Income Tax Law of Cyprus introduces adjustments to the definitions sections of the law by defining:
“Dispute” means a dispute which arises between member states as to the interpretation and application of agreements aiming to eliminate double taxation.
“Double Taxation” means the application of taxes by two or more member states, which are covered by an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation.
Furthermore a new part IX is added to the Cyprus Income tax Law whereby the appeal process is inserted.
Frequent Q&A Regarding Double Taxation Dispute in Cyprus
What is the Competent Body to receive a Double Taxation Dispute in Cyprus?
An aggrieved party may apply to the Cyprus department of taxation and any competent authority of an interested member state.
What is the time limitation to submit an appeal for a Double Taxation Dispute?
Section 36C provides that an aggrieved party may appeal within 3 years from the date receiving of the first notice of the measure leading to a Double Taxation Dispute.
Do i have to submit the appeal to a Double Taxation Dispute in other Member States?
Section 36C(2) provides that the appeal must be submitted to the other interested member states simultaneously along with all the relevant information and documentation.
What is the language of the appeal to the Double Taxation Dispute?
The appeal is submitted to the Department of Taxation in the Greek or English language.
How long does it take the Department of Taxation to respond to an Appeal?
The Department of Taxation informs the aggrieved party within 2 months of the submission of the appeal (Section 36C(4)). Thereafter the Cyprus Department of Taxation must respond within 6 months the acceptance or rejection of the appeal or within 6 months from the date of receipt of any additional information or document.
What happens if the Department of Taxation does not respond within the legal time frames?
If the Department of Taxation does not respond within the legally required time frames then the appeal is deemed accepted.
What forms need to be submitted?
The department of taxation has not yet published any forms regarding the appeal however it will do so at a latter time.
When is this law effective?
The provisions of the amending law are deemed to have effect as of the 1st of July 2019 and relate to any dispute arising for tax matters commencing on the 1st of January 2018 or after that date.
Harris Sharpe
Author - Photographer
For many years he has worked and devoted his skills and efforts towards building a successful career as a leading executive. From humble beginnings, his aim has always been to yield results; with a keen focus to attention to detail and client satisfaction. His experience has always been varied and not specific, at times he preferred it. With that in mind, he has dealt with CySEC on licensing and ongoing regulation, international private equity and credit fund managers, NASDAQ and NYSE listed companies occasional millionaires as well as self-made millionaires. His passion though is difficult transaction work organizing and deploying people for a common goal. Harris enjoys reading and studying the Cyprus law and sharing that information on this website.

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