This question was at the heart of the International Business Structuring Association (IBSA) discussion group hosted by Elias Neocleous & Co LLC on 30 September 2026 at Neocleous House in Limassol.

Entitled “International Succession Planning in Practice: A UK–Cyprus Cross-Border Case Study,” the event brought together professionals from Cyprus, the UK, and Switzerland to examine the tax, succession, and wealth-planning complexities individuals and families face when moving between jurisdictions.

The panel consisted of Lucy Greenwood, Partner at The International Family Law Group in London; Nicolas Bachmann, Partner at 1291 Group in Switzerland; Dmitry Zapol, Partner and International Tax Advisor at IFS Consultants; and, from Elias Neocleous & Co LLC, Vassilis Psyrras, Advocate / Counsel, and Theodora Alexandrou, Advocate / Associate.

The discussion centred on a case study involving a UK entrepreneur relocating to Cyprus with his family while retaining business interests, investments and other assets across several jurisdictions. The case study allowed the panel to explore how tax, succession, family and wealth planning considerations can intersect in practice, and why internationally mobile families increasingly require coordinated advice across borders and disciplines.

Topics included UK inheritance tax, Cyprus tax residence and non-domicile status, succession and estate planning, pensions, forced-heirship rules, international holding and trust structures, and strategies to protect and transfer family wealth.

A key takeaway from the discussion was the importance of approaching international wealth and succession planning holistically.  Decisions taken in one jurisdiction can have significant legal, tax and practical consequences in another, making early coordination between advisers essential to achieving a coherent and effective outcome for the client.

Accredited by the Cyprus Bar Association for 2 CPD units, the event attracted professionals from the legal, tax, fiduciary, and wealth management sectors.

The evening concluded with networking drinks at Neocleous House, allowing attendees to continue exchanging views in a relaxed, informal setting.

We extend our sincere thanks to IBSA, the speakers, and all attendees for contributing to an insightful and engaging evening. Building on the momentum of this event, Elias Neocleous & Co LLC looks forward to continuing the cross-border dialogue on the evolving challenges of international wealth and succession planning.