Transferring a car ownership in Cyprus means legally changing the ownership of a vehicle from one individual or company to another. Whether you're buying a second-hand car, receiving one as a gift, or transferring a company vehicle, it's important to know how the process works to avoid unnecessary hassle.

What Is a Car Ownership Transfer?

A car ownership transfer is the legal process where the title of a vehicle is officially changed to a new owner. This is done through the Department of Road Transport, which maintains all official records relating to vehicles and their owners.

How to transfer ownership of a Car

The process is straightforward and usually completed within a few days. The buyer and the seller must agree to the transfer and then visit the Road Transport office or a Citizen Service Centre together. There, they fill out the relevant transfer form and pay the applicable fee. Once the vehicle details have been checked, a new ownership certificate is issued in the buyer’s name.

If either the buyer or seller is unable to attend in person, the documents must be certified by an authorised official or local community leader.

Need the Transfer Form? Click here.

Required Documents to transfer ownership of a Car

To ensure the process goes smoothly, make sure you have the following documents ready:

Valid ID or passport for both buyer and seller

The current vehicle registration

A valid MOT certificate

Active and certified insurance cover (Cover Note)

If the transfer involves a company, you'll also need an official authorisation letter and relevant company documentation.

Note: From 2025 onwards, you’ll also need a recall clearance certificate, confirming the vehicle has no outstanding recalls. This can be obtained from the official dealership of your car’s manufacturer in Cyprus.

Need a Cover Note? Click here.

Transfer Fees and tax

The standard transfer fee is €8.54. In some cases, there may be additional charges if customs duties haven’t been paid. These are usually stated on the ownership certificate, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand.

Common mistakes to avoid

Many people make the mistake of not having a valid MOT or insurance at the time of the transfer, which can cause delays. It’s essential that all documents are valid and correctly filled out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the transfer take?

If everything is in order, the transfer can usually be completed within a few working hours.

Car Insurance after the ownership transfer

Once the ownership transfer is complete, the next step is to inform your insurance provider by sending them the new ownership certificate so that a new policy can be issued.

Minerva Insurance offers specialised insurance packages for all types of vehicles and can provide quick and reliable cover to suit your needs. Get in touch with us for a quote and drive with confidence and peace of mind.