Renting and Buying Cars in Cyprus

Are you looking for a specific vehicle, or do you have questions about leasing, rent-to-own, or registration? Just contact us directly by email at [email protected] or via WhatsApp ( https://wa.me/message/X4Q7QMGZ44FMO1 ) – We'll connect you directly with our local representative!

For most expats, having their own car in Cyprus is a real boost to their quality of life. Anyone who wants to explore the island beyond the promenades of Paphos, Limassol, or Larnaca—or who plans to run daily errands—will quickly realize that the public transportation system is limited, and without a car, everyday life quickly becomes complicated.

However, buying a car on this sunny island differs from the DACH region in several key ways. To ensure you get off to a smooth start on Cypriot roads, we’ve summarized the most important tips and pitfalls for you, including flexible solutions from our reliable local network partner.

Staying Safe on the Road: What to Look for When Buying a Car in Cyprus

Left-Hand Traffic & Right-Hand Drive (RHD) As a former British colony, Cyprus follows Driving on the left. Most of the vehicles on the island are right-hand drive. People from Germany, Austria, or Switzerland usually get used to it within a few days. Important: Although left-hand-drive cars are permitted, they make it difficult to see when passing on country roads, and their resale value on the island is usually significantly lower.
Imported Vehicles: Focus on Japan & the UK Since cars in Cyprus are right-hand drive, a very large number of used cars come from Japan and the United Kingdom (UK).

Imports from Japan: They are often in excellent mechanical condition, with little rust and low mileage. Please note that navigation systems or on-board computers may need to be adjusted in some cases.
Imports from the UK: While technically familiar, since Brexit it has been necessary to pay close attention to customs duties, import sales tax, and registration fees.

The Cypriot vehicle inspection mark: MOT What is known as the TÜV in Germany and the Pickerl inspection in Austria is called in Cyprus MOT (Ministry of Transport test). All vehicles older than four years must undergo an MOT every two years. When buying a used car, be sure to check that the inspection is up to date.
Road Tax & Insurance The Road Tax It is typically paid online once or twice a year via the JCCsmart portal and is based on the vehicle’s engine displacement or CO2 emissions. In addition, in Cyprus, liability insurance is required by law; however, with many providers, it typically covers only damages that occur on public roads.
In Cyprus, the odometer readings on many cars have been tampered with, so you just have to do the math here.

All-Around Worry-Free Mobility: Your Contact in Cyprus ( https://wa.me/message/X4Q7QMGZ44FMO1 )

Whether you've just arrived or have been living on the island for a while: Not everyone wants to tie up tens of thousands of euros in equity in a vehicle right away or wade through bureaucratic import forms.

Through our expat network, we partner with an experienced car rental provider that offers you the right mobility solution—from affordable city cars to luxury vehicles—with German-style advice, transparency, and fair terms.

Our partner's range of services at a glance:

Hire Purchase: Flexible financing options for vehicles, without having to pay the full purchase price all at once.
Leasing: From affordable compact cars to luxury vehicles, with predictable monthly payments.
Import from the UK: We handle the entire import process for you, eliminating the hassle of paperwork.
Imported from Japan: Access to highly intriguing vehicles and the fulfillment of custom vehicle orders.
Direct Sales: Hand-selected and inspected vehicles from local partners.
Short-term & Monthly Rentals: The perfect temporary solution for the first few weeks after arrival or for visitors.
Special Offers & Exclusive Deals

Conclusion & Contact

Whether you're buying, leasing, renting, or importing a specific vehicle from Japan or England—with the right advice, you'll save a lot of time, stress, and money in Cyprus.