Trade Names in Cyprus
A Trade Name is the name under which an individual or company conducts business activities in Cyprus. It is distinct from the official registered name and is usually chosen for practical or marketing purposes.
Trade Names
Business Identity
Understanding Trade Names
A Trade Name, also referred to as a Business Name, is the name under which an individual or company conducts business activities in Cyprus. It is distinct from the official registered name of the legal entity and is usually chosen for practical or marketing purposes.
Key Characteristics
- Distinct from official registered company name
- Used for practical and marketing purposes
- No design elements or logos involved
- Can appear on letterheads, websites, and documents
Business Applications
- Create more approachable business identity
- Used for advertising and branding
- Day-to-day business transactions
- Companies may operate under several Trade Names
Legal Nature and Regulation
Legal Framework
- Regulated by the Partnerships and Business Names Law (Cap. 116)
- Does not create new legal personality
- Liability rests with underlying company or proprietor
Legal Documentation
- Official company name must appear in contracts
- Legal entity accountable for obligations
- Trade Name used for operational purposes only
Trade Names and Trademarks: Key Differences
Trade Names
- Used for business identification
- Administrative and operational contexts
- Filing tax returns or VAT registration
- Limited protection scope
Trademarks
- Registered intellectual property right
- Protects logos, symbols, or signs
- Associated with products and services
- Trademarks take precedence over Trade Names
Important Note
Trademarks take precedence. If a Trade Name resembles a registered Trademark, the proprietor of the Trade Name may face legal challenges. For exclusive rights over a chosen name, it must be registered as a Trademark under the Trademarks Law (Cap. 268).
Registration of Trade Names in Cyprus
Name Approval
Submit application for name approval to the Registrar of Companies. The Registrar assesses whether the proposed name is acceptable.
Assessment Criteria
Approval may be refused if the name is too similar to existing names, misleading, offensive, or suggests false government connection.
Alternative Names
Legal practitioners often advise submitting three alternatives in case the preferred choice is rejected.
Form EE1 Filing
Once approved, file Form EE1 within six months to complete registration with business details and proprietor information.
Processing Time
Registration typically takes between one and two months, depending on the workload of the Registrar.
Certificate Issuance
Upon completion, receive a certificate of registration of the business name from the Registrar.
Duration, Validity & Compliance
Duration & Validity
- Trade Names are not subject to renewal
- Remain valid as long as actively used
- Can be removed if trading ceases
Tax & Compliance
- Sole proprietors subject to personal income tax
- Can register with VAT and other authorities
- Issue offers, invoices, and receipts under registered name
Legal Assistance and Professional Support
At Psavvides Law Office, we provide full legal support in all matters relating to Trade Names:
Conducting clearance searches for name availability
Preparing and filing registration applications
Advising on conflicts between Trade Names and Trademarks
Handling objections or removals from the registry
Representing clients in litigation and arbitration
Intellectual property and unfair competition matters
Ready to Register Your Trade Name?
Our experienced legal team can help you navigate the Trade Name registration process, ensure compliance with Cyprus law, and protect your business identity. Contact us today for expert guidance on your Trade Name registration.