CYPRUS FAMILY LAW GUIDE 2026
Divorce, Child Custody, Alimony & Division of Marital Property
What Is Family Law in Cyprus?
Family Law in Cyprus regulates the legal relationships between spouses, parents, and children. It covers, among others:
- Marriage and Divorce in Cyprus
- Parental Responsibility & Child Custody
- Child Maintenance & Spousal Alimony
- Marital Property & Financial Claims Between Spouses
Family disputes are handled by the Cyprus Family Courts, which apply a multi-layered legal framework, including:
- Marriage Law 104(I)/2003
- Family Courts Law 23/1990
- Relations Between Parents and Children Law 216/1990
- Marital Property Relations Law 232/1991
- EU Regulations
- Case law and jurisprudence (CyLaw)
- The Constitution of the Republic of Cyprus
This ensures a comprehensive legal system protecting both parental rights and the best interests of the child.
When Can Divorce Be Filed in Cyprus?
A divorce may be granted when the marriage has suffered an irretrievable breakdown, including:
- Separation for at least 2 years
- Mutual consent divorce
- Adultery
- Abandonment
- Domestic violence
- Disappearance of a spouse
- Death of a spouse
Divorce Procedure in Cyprus
The divorce process typically includes:
- Notification to the Metropolis (for religious marriages)
- Filing a Divorce Petition before the Family Court
- Issuance of a Divorce Decree
During or after divorce proceedings, additional applications are often filed for:
- Child custody & parental responsibility
- Child maintenance / alimony
- Division of marital property
Child Maintenance (Alimony) Proceedings
Family Courts may issue:
- Interim (temporary) maintenance orders
- Urgent and ex parte maintenance applications
- Final maintenance orders
Maintenance covers essential expenses such as:
- Education
- Housing
- Healthcare
- Daily living needs
Child Custody & Parental Responsibility in Cyprus
The best interests of the child are always the primary consideration.
The Court may order:
- Joint custody
- Sole custody
- Residence arrangements
- Communication & visitation schedules
Law 216/1990 and Cyprus case law define the rights and obligations of each parent.
Marital Property & Financial Claims Between Spouses
Under Law 232/1991, the Court examines:
- Individual and joint assets
- Each spouse’s financial and non-financial contribution
- Objective and subjective criteria for fair distribution
🔹 There is a legal presumption of a 1/3 contribution, unless a higher or lower contribution is proven.
Both interim and final court orders may be issued regarding marital property.
Why Legal Advice Matters
Proper guidance from an experienced family lawyer in Cyprus can:
- Reduce legal risks
- Avoid unnecessary delays
- Protect your parental and financial rights
- Lead to faster and more cost-effective outcomes
If the marriage is religious, a notification must first be sent to the Metropolis. A divorce petition is then filed before the Family Court under Laws 23/1990 and 104(I)/2003. An experienced Cyprus divorce lawyer can manage the process efficiently and strategically.
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Law 216/1990 governs custody, residence, and communication, always prioritizing the child’s best interests.
According to Law 232/1991, the Court assesses assets, contributions, and needs of both spouses. The 1/3 contribution presumption applies unless rebutted.
Legal fees vary depending on complexity, whether the divorce is consensual, and whether hearings are required. Our family law lawyers in Limassol aim to resolve disputes efficiently, minimizing unnecessary legal expenses.
Contact a Family Lawyer in Cyprus Today
GIORGOULA STYLIANOU LLC – Family Law & Divorce Lawyers in Limassol
If you are dealing with:
- Divorce in Cyprus
- Child custody or parental responsibility
- Child maintenance or alimony
- Marital property disputes
Contact us today for an immediate legal assessment of your case.
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