MOVING TO CYPRUS
Emigrating to a new country is not an easy decision. There are many things to consider to make sure you end up with the right decision. While considering a move to Cyprus – permanent or temporary – it is hard to find updated information online. This is why this page exist: To guide you through all processes and make your relocation to Cyprus as smooth as possible.
Pros and cons of living in Cyprus
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There are pros and cons about living in any country and it is the same about Cyprus. It is also to a large extent a personal perspective based on your own expectations and plans for life. Some of the pros and cons will not be visible immediately when you arrive. Maybe not even within the first year. But sooner or later everyone will start making their own list called: Pros and cons of living in Cyprus. If you are considering moving to Cyprus you will of course not have that luxury. So here is a list of pros and cons about living in Cyprus, which are based on my perspective and input from other expats (of varying nationality) living in Cyprus.
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Pros of living in Cyprus
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Here are some of the major pros about living in Cyprus:
Low crime – It is safe
– Cyprus has a very low crime rate and you will generally always feel safe.
The weather
– The weather is very stable in Cyprus and the summers always seem to last forever
The tax system
– The taxation in Cyprus is low compared to most countries and there’s a high threshold before you start paying income tax.
Pace of life
– The pace of life in Cyprus is exactly how you want it to be and that flexibility is a big positive. If you prefer it slow, go with the flow – few people are ever very busy. If you like a more fast paced style of life – no matter whether that is partying, professional or outdoors – there is nothing stopping you.
Almost everyone speaks English
– If you don’t speak Greek, it is a big advantage that most people speak English. Almost everywhere you go, you will be able to easily get by with English. There is also more and more people that speaks Russian, which will be very helpful if you also speak Russian.
The beaches
– The beaches in Cyprus almost deserves a section of their own. They are consistently voted amongst the best beaches in Europe. With the long summer in mind, what more can you ask for?
Rentals are cheap
– As mentioned elsewhere on this site, renting properties in Cyprus is cost efficient and helps keep your living costs low
The expat communities
– Cyprus is a very popular destination amongst English expats and there are plenty of expat communities that will enable you to settle right in. If you are not from the UK, there are also plenty of communities with expats a variety of European countries, Russia and asia.
Cyprus is a part of the European Union
– While everyone will have an opinion on the success of the European Union, it has made it a lot easier to trade, travel, work and move freely within the member states. As a citizen in a EU member state you enjoy the same rights as Cypriots. If you are not a permanent citizenship in Cyprus offers you access to all EU member states and benefits on equal foot with Cypriots.
Halloumi
– The bacon of cheeses. The salty goat cheese is a real treat and is a part of the Cypriot way of life. And Cyprus is where it originates. Some might say you haven’t lived until you’ve had grilled halloumi for breakfast. And lunch. And dinner. Try it.
UK pensions are payable in Cyprus
– We only have solid information about UK included so far. It is relatively simple to have most parts of your UK pension paid to you if you live in Cyprus.
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Cons of living in Cyprus
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There are some downsides to life in Cyprus, which are mentioned here:
Salaries are relatively low
It is closely related to the low living costs (or vice versa), but the salaries for many jobs in Cyprus are relatively low. You will be able to get by just fine though – mainly because of the low living costs and the taxation rates where personal income tax is not paid of the first €19.500/year.
Lack of shopping options
It is a market that is increasing with more and more opportunities, but there is still a significant difference between the shopping options in Cyprus and most other place. Luckily, there is always the option of purchasing online.
Changes in activity from summer to winter
Tourism is a major driver of the economy in Cyprus. Because tourism is heavily focused on the summer season, the popular tourist destinations almost comes to a complete halt during off season. The winter slowdown might be a positive for you, but there is a significant difference in the opportunities between summer and winter.
Off season tourism is picking up though, and the new plans for a casino of international quality and new golf courses, off season tourism is bound to pick up.
Limited direct flights to other European countries (except UK)
Because of the difference in inbound tourism to Cyprus between summer to winter, there is a lack of opportunities when it comes to direct flight options to pretty much any European country except Greece and UK. This is mostly a challenge during the winter season.
Welfare benefits are low
This is probably not one of the reasons that you are considering a move to Cyprus, but it is still worth considering before you decide to move to Cyprus. The social welfare benefits are not high and it takes a few years before you will qualify for any.