The Central Bank of Cyprus announced that, from 9 January 2025, it can accept direct instant payments for itself and for certain customers, including government departments and government agencies, from any payer account held with Bank of Cyprus or another bank within the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA). Instant payments are credit transfers available 24/7 and executed within seconds, unlike traditional credit transfers that are generally processed during business hours and may only reach the payee on the next business day. The Central Bank of Cyprus highlighted that instant payments can support faster retail payments via internet, mobile and wearable devices, help payees manage cash and liquidity and reduce settlement times, and provide payment service providers with a platform for developing new services.
Central Bank of Cyprus 2025-01-09
Central Bank of Cyprus begins accepting SEPA instant payments for itself and selected government customers
The Central Bank of Cyprus can now accept direct instant payments for itself and certain customers, including government departments, from any payer account within the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA). Available 24/7, instant payments offer faster execution than traditional credit transfers and support enhanced retail payment capabilities. This initiative aims to improve cash management, liquidity, and service development for payment providers.