For expats and Cypriot residents, online shopping has become more transparent in 2026, but technically more complex due to new EU customs regulations. Understanding how taxes and local couriers work helps avoid overpayments and delays.
Contents
Customs Rules 2026: The End of Duty-Free Imports
In 2026, import rules from non-EU countries (USA, China, UK) were finally tightened.
- Abolition of the €150 threshold: As of July 1, 2026, the EU officially abolished the €150 duty-free threshold. Customs duty (Duty) can now be charged on any product, regardless of its value.
- VAT 19%: Value Added Tax is paid on absolutely all parcels.
- €3 Service Fee: A flat pan-EU handling fee has been introduced for each parcel from outside the EU, which is in addition to taxes.
How it works in practice:
- Amazon (DE/ES/IT/FR): Purchases within the EU are customs-free. You only pay for the product and shipping.
- Amazon (com/uk) and AliExpress: Most major marketplaces now use the IOSS (Import One-Stop Shop) system . This means 19% VAT and other fees are included in the final price at checkout.
Important: If you see the “VAT included” message when placing an order on AliExpress, you won’t have to pay any extra at the post office in Cyprus.
Local delivery services: Akis Express and ACS
In Cyprus, the state-owned postal service (Cyprus Post) is often slower than private couriers, so the main flow of commercial parcels goes through Akis and ACS.
Akis Express (GAP Akis)
The largest network on the island. Since 2026, Akis has been the exclusive UPS partner in Cyprus.
- How it works: If your Amazon package is shipped via UPS, it will arrive at the nearest Akis Express location.
- Notifications: You will receive an SMS when your parcel is ready for pickup.
- Services: They offer Shop-to-Shop (pick-up from the point) or Door-to-Door (courier delivery to the door) delivery.
ACS Courier
The main competitor, often used for delivery of orders from Amazon.co.uk and large marketplaces.
- How it works: ACS has a powerful tracking system. If a parcel is subject to tax that wasn’t paid online, ACS may require payment upon receipt (Cash on Delivery) for its customs clearance services.
- Feature: In 2026, ACS is actively developing a network of automatic parcel lockers (Smart Lockers), which is convenient for receiving parcels outside of working hours.
Comparison of methods for receiving parcels
| Service | Delivery type | Customs clearance | Shelf life |
| Cyprus Post | Regular mail | Via THALISUPP system | 15–30 days |
| Akis Express | Courier (UPS) | Automatic (enabled) | 7-10 days |
| ACS Courier | Courier | Own broker | 7-10 days |
THALISUPP Platform: Digitalization of Cyprus Post
In 2026, Cyprus Post moved all its processes online. If your parcel arrived without prepaid VAT:
- You will receive an SMS with a link to the THALISUPP platform .
- You enter the tracking number and pay VAT + a fixed fee for “presentation to customs” (in 2026 it is €3.50 ).
- Only after online payment will the parcel be sent to your post office or Parcel24 locker.
Useful tips for Cypriot residents in 2026
- Use Amazon.de (Germany): This is the most affordable option for Cyprus. Prices include European VAT, there are no customs duties, and delivery is often faster than from the US.
- Check Seller Location: On AliExpress, choose warehouses in Poland, the Czech Republic, or Spain. This eliminates contact with Cyprus customs and reduces the delivery time to 5–7 days.
- Consolidation: If you order many small items, try to consolidate them into one package to avoid paying a flat fee of €3 per package.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if customs requires an invoice?
If the THALISUPP system or the courier have any doubts about the price, you should upload a screenshot of the order from your Amazon/AliExpress account, which clearly shows the product price and shipping cost.
Do you have to pay taxes on gifts from relatives?
Yes, in 2026, even parcels marked “Gift” from outside the EU will be subject to VAT if their estimated value is above €0. The only exception is personal belongings when moving (a special declaration is required).
How do Parcel24 parcel lockers work?
This is a free service from Cyprus Post. When your parcel arrives, you select a convenient box through the app, receive a code via SMS, and pick it up 24/7 without waiting in line.
Why are Amazon shipping costs sometimes higher than the product price?
Cyprus is an island logistics hub. Air freight rates increased in 2026. To save money, look for items marked “FREE Shipping to Cyprus” (rare, but sometimes for larger shipments) or use forwarding companies in Greece.
Can I refuse a parcel if the tax is too high?
Yes, you can initiate a Return to Sender. In this case, you won’t have to pay taxes, but the marketplace may deduct the return shipping costs from your refund.
