New customs duty framework for non-EU online purchases in Cyprus

Starting July 1, 2026, consumers in Cyprus ordering goods from outside the European Union will face a temporary flat-rate customs duty of €3 per product category. This measure follows the EU-wide abolition of duty exemptions for low-value consignments under €150. The temporary system will remain in effect until July 1, 2028, at which point standard classification-based duties will be implemented. Under the new rules, items are categorized individually; for instance, three distinct products like a blouse, earrings, and a keyring incur a total of €9 in duties. Identical items within the same category, such as multiple cotton t-shirts, are charged as a single category, incurring a €3 fee. VAT will be calculated on the total value of the shipment, inclusive of the customs duties. Consumers may pay these charges during the online checkout process if the platform supports it, or upon delivery via postal or courier services. The Cyprus Customs Department issued these guidelines to clarify the transition to the new tax framework.