**Tax Refunds Go Digital as Cyprus Moves IBAN Changes to Tax For All**
As part of its ongoing digital transformation, the Tax Department of Cyprus has announced a significant change in the process for taxpayers wishing to register or modify the bank account details used for receiving payments. Effective October 5, 2023, all requests must be submitted exclusively through the Tax For All (TFA) portal, with email submissions no longer accepted.
The new procedure requires taxpayers to log into the TFA portal using their CY Login credentials. Once logged in, they must complete the T.D. 2008 form and attach an IBAN certificate issued by their bank. The Tax Department emphasized that the bank account must be in the name of the individual or entity entitled to receive the payment, ensuring that all transactions are properly aligned with the taxpayer's identity.
This shift towards a digital-only submission process marks a significant step in the Tax Department's efforts to streamline operations and enhance the security and efficiency of tax-related transactions. By centralizing the process within the TFA platform, the department aims to reduce administrative burdens and improve service delivery to taxpayers.
From October 5, any IBAN registration or amendment request that does not originate from a logged-in session on the TFA portal will be automatically rejected. This includes any requests sent via email, which the department has now deemed obsolete for this purpose. The move effectively closes off alternative submission methods for the majority of taxpayers, reinforcing the importance of the TFA portal as the primary digital gateway for tax matters.
The TFA platform, which has been operational for some time, already offers a range of services, including the ability to submit tax returns, view tax accounts, request certificates, update registration details, and securely communicate with the Tax Department. The integration of CY Login access into TFA, introduced in August 2025, allows users to utilize the same credentials previously associated with the government’s Ariadne service, further simplifying the user experience.
However, the Tax Department has recognized that there may be instances where certain entities cannot obtain CY Login due to identification issues. For these cases, an exception has been made. Entities that cannot be identified through the CY Login system may still submit their requests through TFA without logging in. Instead, they must complete and sign the T.D. 2008-S form and attach the necessary IBAN confirmation from their bank. It is important to note that this exception does not apply to businesses or entities that are eligible for CY Login but have not registered for it.
For those using the exceptional submission procedure, the Tax Department has outlined specific instructions. The signed T.D. 2008-S form must be scanned and submitted through TFA as a new message, along with the bank certificate. This ensures that even those facing challenges with the new digital requirements can still comply with the regulations.
Taxpayers who encounter difficulties accessing their accounts or navigating the new system can reach out to the Tax For All technical support center at 17700. It is important to note that this support line is designed to provide technical assistance rather than tax advice.
In addition to these changes, the Tax Department has published a comprehensive guide on its website detailing the new IBAN registration and amendment procedures. This guide aims to assist taxpayers in understanding the new requirements and ensuring a smooth transition to the digital platform.
The move to digitalize tax processes aligns with broader trends in governance and public service, where efficiency and security are increasingly prioritized. As Cyprus continues to embrace digital solutions, taxpayers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the TFA portal and its functionalities to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
In summary, the Tax Department's transition to a digital-only process for IBAN registrations and amendments represents a significant advancement in the management of tax affairs in Cyprus. By centralizing these processes within the Tax For All portal, the department aims to enhance the efficiency and security of tax transactions, ultimately benefiting both taxpayers and the administration.