Moving to Cyprus After Brexit
A comprehensive interactive guide from CyExpats.com for British citizens on residency, rules, and practical steps for life in the Republic of Cyprus.
Let's find your path. Were you legally resident in Cyprus before 1 January 2021?
Pathways to Residency
This section outlines the primary residency routes for British citizens. Your options depend on whether you are covered by the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement. Select your status above to see the most relevant information.
Rights Under the Withdrawal Agreement
If you were legally residing in Cyprus before 1 January 2021, your rights are protected by the Withdrawal Agreement. You should have applied for a new biometric residence document (MUKW1, MUKW2, or MUKW3) to formalize your status. This document proves your right to live, work, and access services like healthcare in Cyprus.
Temporary Residence (MUKW1)
- Issued to those with less than 5 years of continuous legal residence.
- Valid for 5 years and leads to permanent residency.
- Allows you to work and live in Cyprus.
Permanent Residence (MUKW2/3)
- Issued after 5+ years of continuous legal residence.
- Valid for 10 years and renewable.
- Absences up to 5 consecutive years are permitted.
Please select your residency status above to view detailed pathways.
Key Rules & Timelines
Understanding key regulations is vital for a smooth transition. This section visualizes the 90/180-day rule and outlines the legal entry points into the Republic of Cyprus.
The 90/180-Day Schengen Rule
For tourism or short visits without a residence permit, British citizens can stay in Cyprus (and the Schengen Area) for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is a rolling timeframe. The chart below helps visualize this limit.
Legal Ports of Entry
You must enter and exit Cyprus through legal ports in the south of the island. Entry via the north (e.g., Ercan airport) is considered illegal by the Republic of Cyprus and can lead to serious complications.
Cost of Living Comparison
While individual lifestyles vary, Cyprus generally offers a lower cost of living than the UK. This chart provides a general comparison across key categories. (Indices are relative to NY = 100).
Practical Relocation Checklist
This checklist covers essential practical steps for anyone moving to Cyprus. Use it to track your progress and ensure you've covered all the bases for a successful move.
Family & Dependents
The rules for family members depend on the status of the British citizen they are joining. Below are the general principles for both Withdrawal Agreement beneficiaries and new movers.
Family of Withdrawal Agreement Holders
Close family members (spouses, civil partners, dependent children/parents) of a British citizen covered by the Withdrawal Agreement can join them in Cyprus at any time. They will be eligible for a residence document (MUKW) based on their relationship.
Family of New Movers
Family members of new movers are subject to standard third-country national immigration rules for family reunification, which is a more complex process requiring proof of sufficient income and accommodation for the entire family.
📚 Further Resources & Tools
Dive deeper with our comprehensive guides and crunch the numbers with our specialized financial calculators for expats in Cyprus.
In-Depth Guides
👍 Why Cyprus? Pros & Cons
An essential overview of the key advantages and potential challenges.
⚕️ Healthcare System Explained
A clear comparison of the public (GESY) and private healthcare systems.
🚗 Converting Your Driving Licence
Explains the rules for UK licence holders post-Brexit.
🐾 Bringing Pets to Cyprus
A step-by-step guide for bringing your cats and dogs.
Financial Calculators
💰 Income Tax & GESY Calculator
Estimate your tax and healthcare contributions on your salary.
👴 UK Pension & Tax Calculator
Calculate taxes on private pension withdrawals for expats.
🏠 Property Purchase & Tax Calculator
Estimate total costs of buying property, including fees and duties.
🚘 Car Import Cost Calculator
Calculate VAT, customs duties, and registration fees for your car.