So, you've decided to make the sun-drenched island of Cyprus your new home. Excellent choice! With its enticing mix of Mediterranean charm, rich history, and a lifestyle that embraces the 'siga siga' (slowly, slowly) pace, Cyprus is a fantastic place to live. But, as with any move, there are some things you should know to make your transition as smooth as a Cypriot frappe on a hot afternoon. Here's the complete guide to moving to Cyprus, covering everything you need before, during, and after the move.
Before You Move: Planning and Preparation
Visa and Residency
First things first, ensure you have the correct visa or residency status. EU citizens have it relatively easy—no visa required, just a registration certificate (MEU1) after 90 days on the island. Non-EU citizens will need a bit more paperwork, typically a temporary residence permit, which can be a bit of a bureaucratic dance.
Healthcare: Registering with GeSY
Registering with GeSY, the General Healthcare System, is a must for all residents. It's a decent public healthcare system, a bit like the NHS but with a Mediterranean twist. You'll need your passport, proof of address, and social insurance number to register at gesy.org.cy or a local enrollment point. While GeSY is improving, consider private insurance for quicker access to specialists.
Schooling for the Kids
If you're bringing children, you'll need to decide between local public schools or private/international ones. Public schools are free but taught in Greek, which could be a hurdle unless your little ones are linguistically gifted. Most expats opt for international schools, which offer British curriculums for €3,000–€12,000 a year.
During Your Move: Setting Up and Settling In
Finding a Place to Live
Cyprus offers a range of housing options, from city apartments to countryside villas. Be aware that the housing market can be competitive, especially in cities like Limassol and Nicosia. When renting, check internet availability before signing a contract—ADSL may be your only option in rural areas.
Utilities and Internet
Electricity is provided by the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) and isn't cheap, especially in summer when air conditioning is a must. Consider solar panels if you're buying; with over 300 sunny days a year, they're a no-brainer. For internet, Cyta is the most reliable, but Cablenet provides the fastest speeds if you're in its coverage area.
Shopping and Essentials
Supermarket-wise, Alphamega is your go-to for imported goods, while Lidl is perfect for budget shopping. For furnishing your new pad, IKEA in Nicosia is your best bet, with island-wide delivery. And don't forget the local farmers' markets for fresh produce at unbeatable prices.
After You Move: Getting Comfortable
Navigating Healthcare
Once settled, choose a personal doctor from the GeSY list and get familiar with the system. Remember, a specialist visit might take a few weeks, so private healthcare can be a useful backup. Major private hospitals like Apollonion in Nicosia or Ygia Polyclinic in Limassol offer faster service and English-speaking staff.
Getting Around
Public transportation isn't the island's strong suit, so owning a car is almost essential. Traffic can be relaxed (hello, siga siga), but parking in city centers can be a challenge. If driving on the left sounds daunting, fear not—you'll get the hang of it.
Embracing the Culture
Finally, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Learn a few Greek phrases, enjoy the abundant festivals, and indulge in the local cuisine. Cyprus is a place where community and tradition are valued, so take the time to join in.
What's Next?
Moving to Cyprus is an adventure filled with sun, sea, and a dash of bureaucracy. But with some preparation and a little patience, you'll soon feel right at home. If you have more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask Oki at oki.cy—your friendly local concierge is here to help!