Starting July 1, 2024, applications for building permits in Cyprus can only be submitted through the Hippodamus portal

The Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus issued a decree stating that starting July 1, 2024, applications for building permits (building permits) will only be accepted electronically. The Ministry has developed and launched the Hippodamus portal*, where applications can be filled out, all supporting documents uploaded, and the registration fee paid for processing.

*Hippodamus — an ancient Greek architect, city planner, philosopher, and engineer. He was born in Miletus and became known for implementing rectangular grid layouts in urban planning, which became known as the "Hippodamian system."

The new portal was launched as part of the digitization of public services and local government reform. The authority to review building applications has been transferred from municipalities to five specially created regional development organizations in Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, and the free territories of Famagusta. According to the Ministry of Interior, the portal will simplify and speed up the licensing process for construction.