Medical Care The standard of hospitals and medical care in Cyprus is very high and on a par with any modern European country. Most doctors have received their training either in the UK or the USA therefore communication won’t be a problem for you.
All EU countries have a reciprocal health scheme arrangement with Cyprus, which means you are entitled to free or reduced cost medical treatment. Before you depart be sure to obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – this can be obtained from your home country’s health authority.
Telephone Calls / Communication You can purchase a local Pay-As-You-Go SIM card to use in your mobile phone from supermarkets, small grocery shops and kiosks. Local and international calls are generally cheaper than many countries. Once you are resident you can consider taking out a contract phone.
If you wish to communicate via the internet you will find many internet cafes across the island with modern broadband connections. Many hotels, bars and restaurants also offer free Wi-Fi.
Supermarkets / Food Shopping Every town has numerous supermarkets, grocery shops and small kiosks, which open 7 days per week catering for all your needs. They are everywhere so you should not have any issues shopping for your day-to-day supplies. Unlike the UK smaller local grocery shops are often competitive with the large supermarkets. Existing residents will be very willing to offer advice.
Weather Cyprus boasts 330 days of sunshine a year, the weather is almost guaranteed! Rainfall is very low with the use of a wide range of dams a vital resource. The Troodos mountains are usually the coolest area on the island and Nicosia the hottest. Coastal areas benefit from slightly lower temperatures from the sea breeze but generally July and August, particularly for the first one or two years will be a shock to the system wherever you live.
Tax You can enjoy a high quality lifestyle in a country with one of the most generous taxation systems in Europe. There are different rules for new entrants and pensioners. Personal taxation as business tax are also specific to the country. Getting advice from an accountant or financial advisor to ensure that you make the right decisions is imperative.
Currency The local currency in Cyprus is the Euro.
Language The first language is Greek, however English is widely spoken and you will find 95% of people speak it extremely well and business is often conducted in English. Road signs are all in English as well as in Greek. In the majority of shops and restaurants you will find items described both in Greek and English therefore there will be no problems with communication although an attempt at even basic Greek is appreciated (though they will often respond in English).
Accommodation The quality of rented accommodation is generally far superior to the equivalent in many other European countries. There are a wide variety of accommodation from small studio flats to luxury villas. Costs vary considerably depending primarily on the type of property and the location.
Estate agents within our group ensure that you see what YOU want to rather than what the estate agent want to show you whether that is to buy or rent.
We would always advise that you take time to assess your options before you buy. Taking your time by renting for 6-12 months can save you a lot of money and even more heartache. Making the wrong decision can be VERY costly both financially and emotionally.
Many apartment blocks often have communal swimming pools and some even offer a weekly maid and laundry service. Maintaining your own pool can be costly and time consuming and the wonderful Mediterranean is never far away. So again, think before you pay that extra premium for the luxury of your own pool.
Some employers include accommodation as part of the total salary package. However, you may prefer to find your own accommodation, particularly if you are a couple working for different employers.
