Substituted Service of Legal Documents from Cyprus. What Has Changed?
Recently, Cyprus adopted new Civil Procedural Rules, which introduced changes to the requirements for serving documents. Until now, parties involved in civil cases would receive a full set of legal documents—such as the statement of claim, the application for an order for service abroad with the supporting affidavit, and all accompanying exhibits—when proceedings were initiated. These documents were provided in both Greek and English.
Under the new approach now being implemented, defendants usually receive fewer official documents, typically two, and both are issued in Greek. The first is the Court Order for Substituted Service, which authorizes alternative methods of service, for example by email. The second is the Notice of Substituted Service, which informs the defendant that proceedings have been filed against them and explains their right and opportunity to respond within a specified period.
The notice also makes clear that the complete set of documents including the full statement of claim, affidavit, and exhibits is available for collection from the Registrar of the Court in Cyprus.
This change has simplified the service process, making it more practical and cost-effective for claimants. At the same time, it can create difficulties for defendants, particularly when they do not understand the content of the documents they receive or are unaware that the full case file can be obtained from the Court. Failure to act promptly or to file an appearance or defence within the prescribed period may result in a default judgment being entered against them.
Overall, the new procedure places greater responsibility on defendants to act quickly once they are notified. Prompt legal advice is strongly recommended to ensure their rights are protected and to avoid the serious consequences of a default judgment.
If you have received a notification for Substituted Service from a bank in Cyprus, or have fears you may soon receive one, or would simply like more information on the new legislative change, a member of our team will be happy to take your call on a confidential basis at 01438 840258 or via email to admin@judicaregroup.com
We can also arrange a free no obligation teleconference via Zoom/Skype.
Getting in touch will allow us to understand your individual circumstances and discuss with you your concerns and objectives. Working with you we can then decide upon the correct strategy to approach and find the solution which is right for you.