Cyprus Immigration, Real Estate and Investment Lawyer, Barrister at Law

Esme Palas

Esme Palas is a Partner at Michael Kyprianou Law Firm, based in the firm’s Pafos office. She has extensive experience in real estate, immigration, commercial and corporate law.

A UK-qualified Barrister-at-Law and member of Gray’s Inn, she became a member of the Cyprus Bar Association in 1998. Since then, she has advised a diverse international clientele, including private individuals, foreign investors, and Cypriot and overseas corporations.

Esme has specialised in real estate law for over 25 years, advising European and non-European clients on property transactions and investments in Cyprus. Her practice focuses particularly on conveyancing, representing clients in the purchase and sale of immovable property. She combines an in-depth understanding of Cypriot property law with a practical approach, providing clear advice tailored to each client’s circumstances and objectives.

Alongside her real estate practice, Esme has considerable expertise in Cyprus immigration law. She advises on all aspects of immigration, including the procedures for obtaining residence permits through investment, and assists foreign investors with their property and residency requirements. She also acts as a consultant to international firms and foreign lawyers on property investments in the Republic of Cyprus and immigration matters.

Esme regularly publishes legal articles and is frequently invited to speak at conferences, sharing her expertise and insights. She is widely regarded as a leading practitioner in her field.

Esme has been consistently recognised by The Legal 500 in its EMEA Guide for her expertise in Real Estate and Construction in Cyprus. She was ranked as a “Next Generation Lawyer” in 2017, 2018 and 2019, followed by recognition as a “Rising Star” in 2020. From 2021 to 2026, she has been distinguished each year as a “Next Generation Partner” in Real Estate and Construction.

Her international recognition also includes recommendations by Who’s Who Legal, now Lexology Index, in its Global Guide for Real Estate in 2023, 2024 and 2025. In 2024, she was honoured with the Women in Law Award for Legal Excellence. Most recently, she received the Lexology Index Client Choice Award 2026 for Real Estate in Cyprus.

Client testimonials published by The Legal 500 reflect both her professional expertise and her attentive approach. Esme has built a strong reputation through effective legal advice, high professional standards and a sustained commitment to client care. She places particular emphasis on personal attention and clear communication, ensuring that clients understand their options and feel supported throughout their legal matters.