Frequently Asked Questions

Standard customs clearance at Limassol Port typically takes 1–3 working days once all required documents have been submitted. Complex shipments or those requiring additional inspection may take longer. We keep you informed throughout the process.

The standard documents required are: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, and the Import Declaration. Depending on the type of goods, additional certificates (e.g. health, phytosanitary, conformity) may be required. We will advise you on exactly what is needed for your specific shipment.

Customs duties in Cyprus are calculated based on the CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) value of the goods, multiplied by the applicable duty rate for that product's HS tariff code. VAT (19%) is then applied on top of the CIF value plus the duty. Use our Import Duty Calculator for an estimate.

You can clear goods yourself, but the process involves complex paperwork, knowledge of tariff codes, and familiarity with customs procedures. Using a licensed customs broker like P.Panagi & Sons ensures accuracy, speed, and compliance — reducing the risk of delays, fines, or incorrect duty payments.

The Harmonised System (HS) code is an internationally standardised system for classifying goods. It is a 6–10 digit number that determines the applicable duty rate, import restrictions, and licensing requirements for your product. Using the wrong HS code can result in incorrect duty payments or customs delays. Use our HS Code Classifier to find the right code.

A ThalisUPP notification means your parcel has arrived in Cyprus and requires customs clearance before it can be delivered. Act promptly — clearance typically takes 1–3 working days. You can either complete the process yourself through the ThalisUPP portal, or contact us and we will handle everything on your behalf.

If you do not respond to a ThalisUPP notification within the required timeframe, your parcel may be returned to the sender or disposed of by customs. It is important to act quickly once you receive the notification to avoid delays in receiving your parcel.

The cost depends on the value of the goods, the applicable duty rate, and our service fee. Customs duties and VAT are set by Cyprus Customs based on the declared value and HS code of the goods. Our service fee for handling ThalisUPP clearance is competitive and transparent — contact us for a quote.

TOR relief allows you to import your personal belongings duty-free when relocating to Cyprus from a non-EU country. To qualify, you must have been living outside the EU for at least 12 consecutive months, the goods must have been owned and used for at least 6 months, and you must be transferring your normal place of residence to Cyprus. Use our TOR Eligibility Tool to check your situation.

Yes, a vehicle can be included in your TOR application if it was registered in your name for at least 6 months before your move to Cyprus, and it was used by you in your previous country of residence. The vehicle must be imported within 12 months of your arrival in Cyprus.

When importing a car to Cyprus from outside the EU, you will typically pay customs duty (6.5% for most passenger cars), VAT (19%), and a registration tax based on the CO2 emissions and engine size of the vehicle. Cars imported from within the EU are not subject to customs duty but VAT and registration tax still apply. Use our Import Duty Calculator for an estimate.

To import a car into Cyprus you will need: the original vehicle registration document, purchase invoice or proof of ownership, Bill of Lading or shipping document, your passport or ID, and a deregistration certificate from the country of origin (if applicable). We will advise you on the complete document list for your specific situation.