Living In Cyprus Expat Guide – that will be the topic of today’s article.
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Introduction
Cyprus is a great place to live in today’s 21st century. Their Island is renowned for its fabulous beaches, and it also draws people from all over the world because of its stunning mountain. Living in this country can bring many lifestyles and financial advantages to both businessmen and expats who want to work here.
With that being said, it’s also one of the safest places in Europe with a low crime rate. Despite the country’s division, it still remains a peaceful place to live. Whether you’ve been to Cyprus for a holiday or you’ve heard that it’s the ideal place, here is the best platform to confirm what you’ve heard to be true or false.
Moreover, Cyprus has become the first choice for many multi-national companies wishing to provide their business with an EU base. As a result, expats and locals have found it easy to secure jobs. In fact, employees of these companies can enjoy a working and personal life with many benefits in Cyprus.
As we all know that Cyprus is home to many beaches, there are plenty of things to do. It’s a small island nation located south of Turkey and just to the southeast of Greece. Again, Cyprus is the 3rd largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, after Sardinia and Sicily, in terms of area and population.
Now, it’s high time we disclose what we have for you. If you’ve been surfing the internet to get the right information about moving to Cyprus, look no further. In this article, we have compiled the reasons why moving to Cyprus will make your life better. Not only that, but we will walk you through some fun facts.
5 Reasons Why Cyprus Should Be On Your List
If you’re looking for a new expatriate destination, do keep in mind that Cyprus has numerous advantages. Of course, we understand that packing up to a new environment isn’t easy. Yet, expats who are settled in Cyprus will never forget the experience. Without further ado, let’s quickly check it out.
1. Warm Temperatures and Ample Weather
Since Cyprus enjoys a Mediterranean climate with blistering summers, its proximity to the equator influences the temperature and overall climate. Besides, people residing on the island experience close to 340 days of golden sunshine in a year.
Also, summer lasts for a minimum of 7 months in the country, and it starts in April and lasts until the end of October. The average daytime temperature is around 32 degrees Celsius during these months and might goes up to 40 degrees Celsius or more. But early summer temperatures are boosted by the hot wind.
2. History of Severe Conflict
From its inception, Cyprus has been plagued by a history of severe conflict between the Greeks and Turks. Yet, it still remains one of the safest European countries today. While instances of pretty theft are reported, the crime rate across this island is very low compared to other countries in the world. Meanwhile, female travelers should exercise the usual precautionary measures in any area.
3. Excellent Healthcare System
Whenever we’re talking about countries with the best healthcare system, Cyprus’s name shouldn’t be left aside. This is because; the healthcare system in the North and South of Cyprus is on par with international standards. Like in most other places, expats in Cyprus can choose between the private and public healthcare system.
Aside from this, the country’s national healthcare system offers free medical care at the point of delivery for all residents. Moreover, Cypriots on low incomes are even entitled to free or subsidized treatments. While Cyprus healthcare is excellent, you can find foreign residents that prefer to return to their home countries whenever they need to undergo major surgery.
4. Excellent Quality of Life and Relaxed Pace
If you’ve been planning to strike a balance between work and your personal life, Cyprus is the perfect place to be. Most expats here enjoy a higher standard of life as residents of this island since there’s a better climate, safety, healthcare system, and higher purchasing power than the global average.
Also, when it comes to the cost of living in this country, foreigners have different opinions. While some believe that the island is quite expensive, others think that almost everything is reasonably priced. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of EU Nationals, Asians, and Russians who have relocated to Cyprus.
5. An array of Incentives from Government
The real draws for a number of international luxury homeowners are the array of incentives, title deeds, and the opportunity to get an EU passport. According to the country’s law, anyone who spends over 183 days a year in Cyprus is entitled to become a tax resident. This means he/she has to pay an income tax to earn overseas and locally.
Not only that, but foreigners can easily purchase a house or buy land and build a home without disturbance. Meanwhile, the price of real estate is quite reasonable compared to the UK, the US, and many other nations.
What to Know Before Travelling to Cyprus
From what we’ve stated above, have you decided to spend your holiday in Cyprus? If that sounds like a YES, we’ve got you covered. Before you visit Cyprus, there are a few things to consider. This blog post includes all the useful information to make your dream trip as smooth as possible. Now, let’s check it out!
Visa Requirements to Cyprus
Visa requirements are one of the first things to consider if you’re relocating to any country. If you live in the EU, Canada, USA, Australia, or the United Kingdom, you don’t need a visa to visit Cyprus. However, if you’re a non-EU visitor, you need a passport valid for at least three months from the date of entry.
The fact you don’t need a visa makes traveling to Cyprus really easy in today’s twenty-first century. Meanwhile, if you plan on staying more than 90 days in the country, you have to get a registration certificate. You can check out this platform to understand more about the visa types in Cyprus.
Mythical Birthplace of Aphrodite
If you’re not aware, you should now keep in mind that Cyprus is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and passion. Before the goddess reaches this status, the Aphrodite was a beautiful young girl who was born and lived on the island near Paphos, the capital city of western Cyprus.
Home to Patriarchal Society
Inhabitants of Cyprus are very religious. They are not only religious but also worship the Muslim faith, which means men hold most of the power positions and political positions in the country. A good example is when only males can become religious functionaries and run for political office in the country. On the other hand, women generally hold jobs of lesser status and are responsible for managing the house.
Currency in Cyprus
Cyprus currency widely in use and popularly known is the Euro. The majority of the locals adopted this as their official currency as of January 1, 2008, in a lie of the previously used Cypriot Pound. On the flip side, northern Cyprus uses its currency, known as the new Turkish lira. However, most banks across the country will provide an exchange for all major cash or traveler’s check currency, including Euros.
Driving Laws in the Country
You should always know that the driving laws in your country will definitely be different from another country. In Cyprus, they follow the British UK standard of keeping to the left-hand side of the road. Moreover, many North American travelers have outspokenly complained about the poor road quality and driving standards in the country as they’re dirt-covered and winding in nature.
Language Spoken in Cyprus
The official languages of Cyprus are Turkish and Greek, which is due to the border division of the country. While Greek is widely spoken in the southern portion of the island, Turkish is largely used in the northern part of the country. As a former British colony, English is also widely spoken in the country.
Dress Etiquette in Cyprus
Just like the dressing etiquette in your home country, the fashion jargon in Cyprus is quite similar to the western world. Attire in this country is similar to most European conventions. But when entering a sacred place in Cyprus, men are expected to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, while women are expected to wear long skirts and have their arms covered.
Cost of Living in Cyprus (2021)
If you’re considering a temporary or permanent move to this country or retiring, it’s always useful to know more about the cost of living in Cyprus. This ultimate guide covers all the basics, from accommodation, rents, transportation, healthcare, and education prices. We’ll also explain how you can make your money go further while living in Cyprus as an expat. So, let’s get you informed.
Aside from the rent, expat asking questions about living in Cyprus has become a common query. After all, it’s not just housing costs that you should consider, but also understand the cost of utilities, goods, services, and others. To give you an idea of what it entails, take a look at the average cost of living below.
| Total Living Expenses | Average Cost |
| 1 person, per month (Accommodation) | £680. 87 |
| 4 person, per month (Accommodation) | £2,200.98 |
| Utilities, basic, for 85m2 apartment | £170.67 |
| Average salaries for Accountant/Secretary | £16,700 and £10,800, respectively |
| Healthcare costs in the city | You can pay up to £15 |
Study Cost for Expats in Cyprus
When it comes to studying, there are a number of well-respected universities in Cyprus, including the largest university in Nicosia in the country. Aside from this, there are also three public higher institutions, including the outstanding University of Cyprus. However, the tuition fees to study in Cyprus vary depending on the institution and your course of study. But to give you an idea, it cost up to £7,500 a year. On the flip side, you can also get a lower fee if you’re on a scholarship in any university.
Pros and Cons of Living in Cyprus
While there are pros and cons of living in a country, Cyprus is no exception. Some of these pros and cons may not be visible immediately when you arrive in the country but sooner or later, you’ll get to know it right. So, here’s a list of pros and cons of living in this country, as stated by expats living in Cyprus for years.
Pros
Beautiful Island and Nature
To give you a head start about what living in Cyprus means, beautiful nature is one thing that attracts visitors to the country. Also, you’ll enjoy a pleasant Mediterranean climate of long dry summers and mild winter. Meanwhile, rain occurs mainly in the winter, and snow is possible only in the mountain.
A Glorious Expat Community
Apart from the fact that this country has a unique cultural etiquette, Cyprus has joined the United Nations since 1960. And being a British Colony before its independence has resulted in many British people living on the island until today. Moreover, a great number of expats come from Eastern European countries, Russia, and America.
Excellent Infrastructural System
Another benefit of living in Cyprus is the excellent infrastructural system. The country is reputable for its excellent road system, road signs, international airports, and the two greatest ports located in Limassol and Larnaca. Not only have that, but Cyprus offers excellent telecommunication services with topped notch mobile and internet facilities at high-speed services.
Competitive Tax System
Cyprus, in no doubt, has a competitive tax system taken into consideration all EU and international regulations for inhabitants. For an individual taxpayer in Cyprus, you shall be entitled to a gift or remuneration from the government if your tax is up to date. Meanwhile, non-tax residents are taxed on income derived from sources in the country.
Safe and Comfortable Lifestyle
Research has made it known that Cyprus is ranked to be among the countries with the lowest crime rate. Additionally, there are no places where it is not recommended to purchase the property. And there are no steel entrance doors, while fencing in the country is usually limited to 1.2m in height.
Again, there’s no democracy and order in this country as their life is wrapped around by the spirit of openness and lightness, opposite to the heavy spirit of pedantry and life according to the rules. In contrast to residents of many countries, Cyprus historically welcomes foreigners. And nearly all the citizens of Cyprus speak English at a high level, and they love to marry foreigners.
High Standard of Living in Cyprus
A high standard of living also constitutes one of the reasons to live in this country as an expat. With the excellent infrastructural facilities and unique healthcare system, the benefits of this country cannot be overemphasized. Moreover, the average lifetime here is 78 years by men and 81 years by women.
Ease of Immigration in Cyprus
The immigration process in Cyprus as of 2021 is extremely liberal. Even with the advent of the global coronavirus pandemic, expats that adhere to rule rules and travel guides find it easy to relocate to the country. Provided that you meet the stated rules and requirements, terms of obtaining a residence permit are within 2 months in this country.
Cons
Low Employee’s Benefits
When you compare the salary in this country with other countries in the western world, you’ll definitely see a huge difference. This is because; Cyprus offers low salaries, and if you’re a Non-European and Non-Cypriot citizen, you’re likely to earn 5 Euros per hour for a part-time job. More so, if your company doesn’t offer you accommodation and food, your full-time job may not allow you to save money.
Fewer Job Opportunities
If you’re relocating to Cyprus, be sure that you’re good enough in a skill to avoid joblessness in the country. This is to tell you that there are fewer job opportunities in Cyprus compared to other European countries. Moreover, most of their products are imported from other countries because they rely on agriculture and tourism.
Lack of Shopping Options
While Cyprus remains a country that’s increasing in its market, there are still significant differences between the shopping options in this country compared to other places. Luckily for expats, there’s always the option for purchasing online. But, if you’re not used to this system, it could be hard to withstand.
Low Welfare Benefits
Even with the amount of tax being paid by residents, we discovered that there are low welfare benefits in the country. In addition, it may not necessarily mean the reason for your relocation, but it is worth considering this factor before moving. Again, the social welfare benefits are not high, and it could even take years for you to qualify for anyone.
Buying Property Can be Challenging
If you’re unable to meet the right agent, buying property in Cyprus can be challenging. This is due to the fact that there are many potential pitfalls that you can easily avoid while buying property. Also, most complaints are usually building quality and hidden unforeseen expenses after buying a property.
Best Areas Suitable for Expats in Cyprus
If you’re looking for a vibrant way of life in Cyprus, why not consider moving to the Southern part? Well, you might be wondering where in the Southern part is the best, right. Of course, there are many places to live aside from the south. But let’s introduce the best places to live in the Republic of Cyprus.
Nicosia
This city is divided in two by the Green Line, and it is a vibrant and quite sophisticated city that offers a perfect blend of urban life and relaxation for expat. The city lies inland, and therefore it can get hotter than the seaside in summer. This not only keeps the place from becoming overcrowded but helps to preserve a truly Cypriot and expats feel the place.
Limassol District
Limassol is a city on the southern coast of Cyprus. It has a modern, cosmopolitan feel which allows expat to move to the area. Aside from this fact, it has quite a few beautiful sites worth visiting, including Amathus Ruins, Limassol Castle, and the Mosque of Djami Kebir. Also, right in the center of this city, there’s a beautiful promenade called Molos, and it offers great walks along the beachfront.
Larnaca
This city is compact, easily accessible, and offers easy access to other regions on the island. Not only that, but Larnaca is known as the place where Cyprus adventures start for most new arrivals, and it is the place where the most popular airport in the country is located. In summary, Larnaca is more relaxed, comfortable, and a bit cheaper compared to Limassol and other cities mentioned above.
Paphos District
Paphos is a lovely coastal city in the southwest region of Cyprus. This town has good amenities and infrastructure that made it different from other cities. From shopping malls, decent road connections to modern hospitals, the benefits of living in this city cannot be overemphasized. It is full of picturesque villages, and British expats quite love it.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cyprus
Is Cyprus a good place for Expat to live?
Of course, yes! Cyprus is one of the safest places to live in Europe. The country has a low crime rate, and despite the division, the country remains the best destination for expats and tourists.
Is it easy to get a job in the country?
As mentioned earlier in this article, getting a lucrative job in Cyprus can be somewhat difficult. And due to the country’s large tourism sector, you can only get seasonal and casual jobs.
What is the highest-paying job in Cyprus today?
Well, one of the highest paying jobs in the country is Executive management. Not only that, but you should understand that some of the lowest-paid jobs in Cyprus are accounting, professional services, and many others, to mention a few.
Conclusion
Life in Cyprus is enjoyable, and the people in this country are known to be friendly. You’ll definitely enjoy good weather conditions, tax benefits, affordable living costs, and more. Are you still looking at the benefits and the reasons why this country is suitable for expat? Refer to this guide and read carefully to know more.
