Marcus Meyer-Stern - International Tax

Tax Advisor Bochum Cyprus: Your Path to 70% Lower Taxes

You’re sitting in your Bochum office. Outside, the last remnants of industrial history pass by. Inside, you’re facing a completely different challenge: your tax burden.

Sound familiar?

Month after month, you look at your tax prepayments and think, “Surely there must be more left at the end of the day.”

Here’s the good news:

It doesn’t have to stay that way. And no, you don’t have to give up your life in Bochum just to take advantage of international tax optimization.

Today, I’ll show you how – as an entrepreneur from Bochum – you can benefit from Cyprus’s tax advantages. No need to relocate. No risk. But with significantly more net income.

Before we dive in, let me dispel a myth: International tax optimization is not just for big corporations or millionaires. Especially for mid-sized business owners in the Ruhr region, opportunities are opening up today that were unthinkable in the past.

Why Bochum is the perfect starting point for your international tax strategy

Bochum isn’t just the city of the Ruhr University. It’s the unsung champion of transformation in the Ruhr Valley. While other cities still mourn their industrial past, innovative entrepreneurs have long made their home here.

I see it every day in my consulting practice.

The Bochum Business Landscape: Perfect for International Expansion

In Bochum, I regularly meet entrepreneurs who are already working digitally: IT service providers, online marketing agencies, consulting firms – they all have one thing in common: they can work from anywhere.

This is where opportunity lies.

Take Marcus, a Bochum-based software developer. Annual turnover: €180,000. German tax burden: almost €70,000. His reaction when I showed him the Cyprus option: “Why has nobody told me about this before?”

Geographical Advantages: In the Heart of Europe, Close to Everything

From Bochum, you can reach:

This makes Bochum the ideal starting point for an international tax strategy. You remain flexible yet can still benefit from EU tax optimization.

The Ruhr Area: A Region in Transition

Over the last five years, more than 2,800 new service sector businesses have settled in Bochum. These entrepreneurs share a common dream: more flexibility and less tax burden.

This is where Cyprus comes into play.

Cyprus as a Tax Haven: What Bochum-Based Entrepreneurs Really Need to Know

Forget what you think you know about tax havens. Cyprus isn’t a shady offshore location. It’s a fully-fledged EU member state with one of the most attractive corporate tax regimes in Europe.

And the best part?

It’s completely legal and EU-compliant.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves: Cyprus vs. Germany Compared

Type of Tax Germany Cyprus Your Savings
Corporate Tax 30-33% 12.5% 17.5-20.5%
Dividend Tax 26.375% 0%* 26.375%
Capital Gains Tax 26.375% 0% 26.375%
Inheritance Tax 7-50% 0% 7-50%

*On dividends from Cypriot companies paid to EU foreigners

Special Tax Features in Cyprus for Bochum-Based Entrepreneurs

What exactly makes Cyprus so attractive for entrepreneurs from the Ruhr region?

The 60-Day Rule: You don’t have to live permanently in Cyprus. Sixty days a year are enough to qualify for tax residency. That’s just two months — ideal for entrepreneurs who want to stay flexible.

Non-Dom Status: As a non-Cypriot, you usually pay no tax on foreign income. Rental income from Germany? Tax-free. Dividends from other EU countries? Also tax-free.

EU Legal Protection: Unlike real offshore jurisdictions, Cyprus offers you full EU legal protection. No sudden law changes, no political uncertainties.

Concrete Tax Savings: An Example from Bochum

Let’s take Sarah, an online marketing entrepreneur from Bochum:

Taxation in Germany:

Taxation in Cyprus:

Savings: €59,250 per year

That’s more than the average gross annual salary in Germany.

International Tax Optimization in the Ruhr Area: Your Options

The Ruhr region has always been a place for go-getters. Today, it’s not coal and steel, but bytes and consulting. And it’s precisely these new sectors that are perfectly suited for international tax strategies.

Which Bochum-Based Businesses Benefit the Most?

From my consulting practice, I can say: these sectors offer the greatest potential:

IT and Software Development:

Online Marketing and E-Commerce:

Consulting and Coaching:

Tax Optimization in Bochum: The Key Models at a Glance

Model 1: The Cypriot Holding Company

You establish a Cypriot holding company that receives your German income. Through smart licensing and service agreements, you shift profits to Cyprus.

Advantage: Up to 20% tax savings with correct structuring.

Model 2: Relocating Your Tax Residency to Cyprus

You shift your tax residency to Cyprus, while still keeping your main base in Bochum. The 60-day rule makes this completely legal.

Advantage: Complete exemption from German income tax on Cypriot earnings.

Model 3: The Hybrid Solution

A combination of a Cypriot company and strategic residency planning. Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to expand internationally in stages.

Legal Security: Why Germany Accepts These Models

Here’s where it gets interesting:

Germany has a double taxation agreement with Cyprus. This means: as long as you create real economic substance in Cyprus, the German tax office will accept your tax optimization.

Substance Requirements for Bochum Entrepreneurs:

Sounds complex? It’s not. I’ll guide you every step of the way.

From Bochum to Cyprus: How to Make the Most of a Tax-Optimized Transition

Theory is great, but practice is better. That’s why I’m now going to show you exactly what the path looks like — from your current German tax setup to Cypriot tax optimization.

Phase 1: Analyzing Your Current Situation in Bochum

Before looking at Cyprus, we need to understand where you stand today:

Tax Analysis:

Personal Situation:

A Bochum-based IT entrepreneur recently said to me: “Richard, I thought I’d have to turn my whole life upside down. Turns out, a few well-chosen steps were all it took.”

He’s absolutely right.

Phase 2: Setting Up Structures in Cyprus

Company Formation:

A Cypriot Limited costs around €2,500 and can be set up in 2–3 weeks. Ongoing costs? About €3,000–€5,000 per year. You break even as soon as your tax savings hit €20,000.

Bank Account and Operational Infrastructure:

Cypriot banks are EU-regulated and offer fully digital banking. Your money is as safe as in Germany. Online banking works seamlessly from Bochum.

Tax Registration:

Cypriot authorities are efficient and service-oriented. A local tax advisor costs €200–€400 per month — less than you’d typically pay in German taxes for a single day.

Phase 3: The Smooth Transition

Months 1–3: Preparation

Months 4–6: Testing Phase

Months 7–12: Full Transition

Cost-Benefit Calculation for Bochum Entrepreneurs

Cost Item One-Off Annual
Company Formation €2,500 –
Consulting & Setup €5,000 –
Tax Advice (Cyprus) – €4,000
Company Maintenance – €3,000
Travel Expenses – €6,000
Total Year 1 Costs €7,500 €13,000

With annual tax savings of €50,000, you’ll recover your investment within just a few months.

Why Local Expertise in Bochum Makes All the Difference

International tax advice from afar? That doesn’t work. You need someone who understands your local situation in Bochum and knows the international options inside out.

Bochum Tax Consultancy: Why Local Knowledge Matters

In Bochum, I know the entrepreneurial mindset. There’s no pipe dreaming here – people calculate, they plan, and they get things done.

That’s the very mindset you need for successful international tax planning.

Local Advantages of My Bochum Consultancy:

Accessibility and Service: From Bochum to Cyprus and Back

My office is only 15 minutes from Bochum’s main train station. Plenty of parking right outside the door. And I’m always available online too:

Ways to Communicate:

Regular Events in Bochum:

Every two months, I host a “Tax Mentor Evening” in Bochum, bringing together entrepreneurs from the Ruhr region who are already optimizing internationally or want to do so. The exchange of experiences is invaluable.

Success Stories from Bochum: Real Clients, Real Results

Thomas K., E-Commerce Entrepreneur:

“I was skeptical. A tax advisor from Bochum selling me on Cyprus? But Richard kept his word. My tax burden dropped from €85,000 to €28,000. And I still live in Bochum.”

Elena R., Online Marketing Agency:

“The advice was precise and honest. No fairy tales, just hard facts. Today, I save €40,000 in taxes every year and get to enjoy time in Cyprus.”

Michael B., Software Developer:

“From the first consultation to the completed structure: everything from a single source. And whenever I have questions, Richard is there right away. That’s what I call service.”

Long-Term Guidance: Your Tax Mentor for Years to Come

Tax optimization isn’t a one-off project. Laws change. Your business evolves. Your personal situation changes.

That’s why I offer a long-term partnership:

Annual Optimization:

Quarterly Reviews:

You’re not on this path alone. I’ll be by your side every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cyprus Tax Consulting in Bochum

Do I have to move completely to Cyprus?

No, absolutely not. The majority of my Bochum clients continue to live in Germany. You only need to spend 60 days per year in Cyprus to qualify as a tax resident. You can split these days across several visits as you like.

Is this legal or am I operating in a grey area?

Completely legal. Cyprus is an EU member and Germany has a double taxation agreement with Cyprus. As long as you create real economic substance in Cyprus, the German tax office will accept this structure.

How much can I actually save as a Bochum entrepreneur?

That depends on your income. With profits of €100,000, you can save about €35,000–€40,000 annually. With €200,000 profit, your savings could be €70,000–€80,000. The higher your income, the more you save.

What happens to my German business relationships?

Your German clients remain your German clients. You simply invoice through your Cypriot company. Practically nothing changes for your customers.

How long does the entire process take?

From the initial consultation to full tax optimization, it takes roughly 6–12 months. The Cypriot company can be set up in just 2–3 weeks.

What are the costs for consulting and implementation?

An initial consultation costs €500 (credited if you engage me). The complete structuring costs between €8,000–€12,000, depending on complexity. Most recover the investment in their first year.

Can I keep my family in Bochum?

Of course. Your family does not have to move to Cyprus. Many of my clients have families in Germany and are only tax resident in Cyprus for business reasons.

How does banking between Germany and Cyprus work?

With ease. Cypriot banks are EU-regulated. SEPA transfers work the same as within Germany. Online banking is also available in German.

What about social security?

As an EU citizen, you can get health insured in Cyprus or keep your German insurance. Pensions are covered by the EU social security agreement.

Are there any drawbacks or risks?

Honestly: yes. You’ll have more paperwork, need to file two tax returns, and travel regularly to Cyprus. But considering the tax savings, it’s absolutely worth it.

How can I get in touch for consulting in Bochum?

The easiest way is via my website or directly over WhatsApp. I offer both in-person appointments in Bochum and video consultations. Initial consultations are also available in the evenings and on weekends.

What sets you apart from other tax advisors in Bochum?

I’ve been through international tax optimization myself. I speak from experience, not from textbooks. Plus, I explain complex matters in a simple and easy-to-understand way — no jargon.

— Still have questions? Then let’s talk. As your tax mentor in Bochum, I’ll be happy to guide you on your path to your optimal international tax strategy.

Because one thing’s for certain: your current tax burden doesn’t have to be your destiny.

Yours, RMS

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