As a step against tax evasion, the Council of Ministers has made obligatory for lawyers to offer their clients the option to pay by card.
According to the Council’s order, published on the official Government’s Gazette on 18.6.2021, professionals offering “legal activities” are required to enter into contractual agreements with licensed POS service and unit providers and accept the usual card payment terminals widely used in retail.
The law, which appoints the Tax Department as responsible for the enforcement, also requires the installation of prominent signs at the entrance of the office, informing the customers clearly with regards to their option to pay by card.
According to a Cyprus Bar Association announcement of 24.8.2021, payment by card is not obligatory but should “be offered as a possibility and option to the public”
The deadline for compliance with the order is 18.9.2021. New law offices which commence business after 18.9.2021 should comply within 30 days.
