Cyprus Expands Fast-Track Approvals to Medium-Risk Projects
On Tuesday, March 4th, Cypriot Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou announced an extension of the country’s fast-track programme for building permit applications. The initiative, which previously applied only to low-risk developments, will now include medium-risk projects—significantly reducing bureaucracy and expediting the approval process.
The expanded scheme covers developments such as four-storey buildings with up to 20 apartments or complexes with no more than 12 townhouses. Under the new system, permits for these projects are expected to be issued within 80 working days. Notably, approximately 1% of all building applications will now qualify for the fast-track system, easing the administrative burden on district authorities and streamlining routine procedures.
This reform builds on the success of a similar fast-track mechanism introduced for low-risk projects in October 2024. To ensure effective implementation, the government, in collaboration with the Cyprus Chamber of Science and Technology (Etek), has established the new role of building inspector. According to Minister Ioannou, a total of 347 planning applications and seven building permit applications for projects in this category have been processed so far.
A key objective of this initiative is to simplify the approval process and enhance service efficiency for the public. “This major reform will eliminate arbitrary decisions on building permit applications,” Ioannou emphasized.
All applications must now be submitted through the Ippodamos electronic licensing system, with architects responsible for ensuring the accuracy of submitted documents. If a municipality does not reject an application within 20 days, the system will automatically issue the permit on the 21st day, further streamlining the process.
The minister hailed these reforms as a crucial step in reducing bureaucratic obstacles and fostering a more transparent, efficient framework for building approvals in Cyprus.
Source: cyprus-mail.com