The National Sanctions Implementation Unit (NSIU/EMEK), established under L.150(I)/2025 effective 25 July 2025, marks a key step in Cyprus’ sanctions framework. Empowered to investigate, license, issue directives, coordinate enforcement, exchange information, and freeze assets, the NSIU enhances compliance with EU, UN, and national sanctions. Non-compliance may trigger fines or criminal liability. MPC Legal can guide businesses in navigating the new framework and applications

The EU has adopted its 18th and most far-reaching sanctions package against Russia, targeting energy, banking, and the military-industrial complex, while also expanding accountability measures and aligning sanctions on Belarus. MPC Legal outlines the key components, including tightened oil price caps, broader banking restrictions, and new protections for EU member states.

The Maternity Protection Act of 1997 (Law 100(I)/1997) was amended on 20 May 2025 by Law 62(I)/2025 to extend maternity leave benefits. The period for breastfeeding protection and childcare facilities is increased from nine to twelve months. Mothers are entitled to a paid one-hour daily break, late arrival, or early departure. The extension applies only if the nine-month period had not ended by 19 May 2025; otherwise, the previous limit applies.

The EU adopted its 17th sanctions package on 20 May 2025, the largest to date, targeting Russia’s shadow fleet with 189 new vessels, major energy actors, and over 45 companies linked to the military-industrial complex. It adds 75 listings of individuals and entities, expands trade restrictions on dual-use and advanced technologies, and imposes measures against hybrid threats, human rights abuses, and Russia’s destabilising actions abroad.

On 24 Feb 2025, the EU adopted its 16th sanctions package against Russia, targeting key sectors and circumvention. Measures include: bans on Russian primary aluminium imports; expanded dual-use export controls (chemicals, CNC software, drone parts, chromium ores); sanctions on 74 vessels, 83 individuals/entities, 3 oil transport firms, 13 banks; flight and road transport restrictions; and bans on major Russian ports and airports.

Cyprus Law 157(I)/2024 extends parental leave, increases childbirth allowance from October 2024, and introduces flexible working rights under employment law.

The EU has adopted its 14th and 15th sanctions packages against Russia, further tightening restrictive measures under Regulations 269/2014 and 833/2014. These packages expand asset freezes, strengthen anti-circumvention tools, impose restrictions on LNG, finance, crypto, shipping and technology, and extend divestment derogations. New listings target Russian, non-EU entities, vessels, and individuals linked to the war, with measures designed to curb sanctions evasion

Upcoming tax changes for UK resident non-domiciled individuals, effective April 6, 2025, and positions Cyprus as a compelling relocation opt

The House of Representatives recently amended the Value Added Tax Law 119(I) of 2016 which allowed for a reduced VAT rate of 5% levied on...

The European Union (EU) continues to adopt further packages of economic sanctions against Russia due to the continuance of its military...