The urban planning amnesty initiative introduced by the Cypriot government in September 2024 has seen limited uptake, with residents showing little enthusiasm for legalizing unauthorized structures.
According to the Ministry of Interior (MIA), only 34 applications have been received since the program’s launch—28 from Nicosia and six from Limassol. The low response has raised concern within the ministry, which urged property owners to take advantage of this opportunity while the amnesty is still available.
The government has facilitated applications through the new Hippodamus portal, with submissions reviewed by local urban planning bodies in Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, and the free districts of Famagusta. However, only structures within fully completed and licensed buildings are eligible. This excludes major unauthorized additions, such as extra floors, but allows for minor modifications to be legalized, like balcony glazing, pergolas, awnings, and barbecue areas.
To obtain legal title for these modified properties, owners need to complete the EA15 form for urban planning amnesty, receive approval, and pay a fine based on the modification’s type and property location, with fees ranging from €300 to €3,000. Revenue from the fines will support the Cyprus Organisation for Land Development (KOAG) in building affordable housing for low-income residents.
Source: stockwatch.com.cy,