Your Complete Guide to Life in Cyprus
Welcome to the ultimate interactive resource for expats considering or planning a move to Cyprus. This comprehensive guide combines data-driven insights, practical tools, and expert advice to help you make informed decisions.
Residency Pathways
Understanding your residency options is the first step to a successful move. Cyprus offers various pathways depending on your nationality, employment status, and financial situation.
Are you a British citizen who was resident in Cyprus before 1 January 2021?
Rights Under the Withdrawal Agreement
If you were legally residing in Cyprus before 1 January 2021, your rights are protected by the Withdrawal Agreement. To formalize your status, you were required to apply for a new biometric residence card (designated MUKW1, MUKW2, or MUKW3).
Temporary Residence (MUKW1)
- Issued to those with less than 5 years of continuous legal residence.
- This biometric card is valid for 5 years.
- Allows you to work, live, and leads to permanent residency.
Permanent Residence (MUKW2/3)
- Issued after 5+ years of continuous legal residence.
- This biometric card is valid for 10 years and is renewable.
- Absences up to 5 consecutive years are permitted without losing rights.
Please select your residency status above to view detailed pathways.
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.
Financial Planning
A clear financial plan is essential for a successful move. Use our interactive tools to estimate your costs and understand the financial landscape in Cyprus.
Interactive Cost of Living Calculator (2025)
2025 Property Market Snapshot
Median 2-Bed Apartment Price (€)
Banking & Financial Setup
- Recommended Banks: Bank of Cyprus, Euro Bank are the largest and most expat-friendly.
- Required Documents: Passport, proof of address, and proof of income are typically required.
- Tax Essentials: Cyprus offers attractive tax regimes for expats, including non-dom status.
- Digital Options: Revolut and Wise are widely used for easy currency exchange.
Cost of Living Comparison: Cyprus vs. UK
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).
Find Your Perfect City
Each city in Cyprus offers a unique lifestyle. Tell us what matters most to you to find your ideal match.
City Comparison at a Glance
Limassol
Cosmopolitan hub with vibrant business scene and nightlife
Nicosia
Capital city with government jobs and cultural attractions
Larnaca
Affordable coastal city with international airport
Paphos
Relaxed lifestyle popular with retirees and families
Life on the Island
What is daily life really like in Cyprus? This section covers the essentials of living well on the island.
Healthcare: GeSY vs. Private
Cyprus has a mixed healthcare system with both public (GESY) and private options.
- GESY (Public): Comprehensive coverage for residents
- Private: Faster access and wider choice of specialists
- Major Insurers: Cigna, Bupa Global, Universal Life
International Education
Cyprus offers excellent international schools with various curricula.
- Limassol: Foley's School, Heritage School
- Nicosia: The English School, American Int'l
- Paphos: ISOP (International School of Paphos)
Getting Around
While most expats drive, public transport is available in urban areas.
- Driving: EU licenses valid for 6 months
- Public Transport: Buses connect major cities
- Car Import: Possible but involves taxes and paperwork
Pet Relocation
Bringing pets to Cyprus is straightforward with proper preparation.
- EU Pet Passport: Required for pets from EU countries
- Microchip: Pets must be microchipped
- Vaccinations: Up-to-date rabies vaccination required
Daily Life & Culture
Cypriot culture blends Mediterranean warmth with European efficiency.
- Climate: Mediterranean with hot summers, mild winters
- Cuisine: Fresh, Mediterranean ingredients
- Language: Greek is official, English widely spoken
Retiree Focus
Cyprus is a popular retirement destination with specific benefits.
- Taxation: Favorable treatment of foreign pensions
- Healthcare: Access via S1 forms for EU retirees
- Community: Large expat retiree communities
Safety Comparison
Cyprus is generally considered a safe country. Here's how the major cities compare in terms of safety statistics.
Financial Calculators
Use our specialized calculators to plan your finances accurately. These tools are tailored to Cyprus-specific regulations and costs.
Estimate your Cyprus income tax and GESY healthcare contributions based on your salary or freelance income.
Calculate taxes on private pension withdrawals, including UK, Irish, other Foreign pensions, for expats living in Cyprus.
Estimate the total cost of buying property in Cyprus, including transfer fees and stamp duty.
Calculate the total cost of importing a car to Cyprus, including VAT, customs duties, and registration fees.
Calculate self-employment income, taxes, and social insurance contributions for freelancers in Cyprus.
Estimate the costs of registering and maintaining a company in Cyprus, including legal and annual fees.
Essential Guides
Our comprehensive guides cover every aspect of moving to and living in Cyprus, organized by phase of your relocation journey.
Phase 1: Before You Move to Cyprus
An essential overview of the key advantages and potential challenges of expat life in Cyprus.
A complete guide to the different residency options for both EU and Non-EU citizens.
A detailed breakdown of typical monthly expenses, from rent and utilities to groceries and leisure.
A clear comparison of the public (GESY) and private healthcare systems for expats.
Phase 2: Your First 6 Months
A week-by-week action plan to prioritize urgent tasks like getting a SIM and residency application.
A definitive, step-by-step walkthrough for EU citizens applying for their Registration Certificate.
Simplifies the process of getting your Social Insurance Number and Tax Identification Code (TIC).
A practical guide to finding and safely securing a rental property from abroad.
Phase 3: Living & Thriving in Cyprus
A deep dive into the best areas to live for families, retirees, and digital nomads across the main cities.
A complete step-by-step guide for expats on the property purchase process.
A step-by-step walkthrough of the annual tax return process using the online tax portal.
A legal and tax guide comparing the paths of registering as self-employed or setting up a Limited Company.
Your Relocation Checklist
Follow this timeline for a smooth transition to life in Cyprus.
3-6 Months Before Move
- ✓Visa & Documents: Finalize residency path and gather required documents.
- ✓Banking: Open a Euro bank account.
- ✓Pets & Car: Plan logistics for bringing pets or importing a vehicle.
- ✓Research: Study areas, schools, and healthcare options.
1 Month Before Move
- ✓Book Accommodation: Secure temporary housing for your first month.
- ✓Arrange Health Insurance: Essential for non-EU visa applications.
- ✓Book Movers/Removals: Arrange international shipping if needed.
- ✓Notify Services: Inform banks, utilities, and other services of your move.
First 3 Months in Cyprus
- ✓Find Long-Term Rental: Secure permanent accommodation.
- ✓Immigration (CRMD): Submit residency application.
- ✓Get Tax ID & Utilities: Register for essential services.
- ✓Get Mobile Plan: Set up local communication.
- ✓Explore: Familiarize yourself with your new surroundings.