How to Move to Cyprus

I know, I know…we’re as guilty as the next blog, magazine article or book in talking in general terms about living abroad, becoming an expat or retiring to the sun - but when it comes down to the day to day practicalities of planning and executing a move overseas more needs to be written - which is why in this article we’ll tackle the question of ‘how to move to Cyprus.’

Among Britons and Europeans the Republic of Cyprus is becoming one of the most popular destinations for those looking for a low tax lifestyle abroad, and for expatriates seeking a cheaper alternative there is North Cyprus where the cost of living, cost of property (and the GDP) is about three lower than in the South.

How to Move to Cyprus (South)

Since 2004 the entire island of Cyprus has been in the EU although European Union rules, regulations law and aid only apply to the southern part of Cyprus…this means that those who herald from one of the other EU member states theoretically has the right to move to live in Cyprus. 

Certain restrictions do actually apply to citizens of the newest member states or those with criminal records for example, but generally speaking those who arrive with an EU passport can get temporary or permanent residence in Cyprus.  Citizens of other nations should initially determine their eligibility to reside in Cyprus by contacting their nearest Cypriot embassy.

Because tax is only 5% on pension and many other forms of earned income, Cyprus is currently the lowest tax location in Europe for the average person to live in making it incredibly and increasingly popular.

Those determined to move to live in south Cyprus should initially look at their finances before making a firm decision to move.  The cost of living in Cyprus is hardly cheaper than living in the UK for example although property and utility prices are generally a bit lower.  Those who will have a set pension income to live on need to think about whether it will stretch far enough to allow them to relocate, those who have no income will need to determine whether they can realistically find work paying a sufficient salary to cover their lifestyle and anyone contemplating making a move abroad - whether they have a property to sell or not - needs enough in the bank to cover them for at least the first 3 months overseas. 

Those with a property to sell should think long and hard about staying behind and selling it before moving to Cyprus because it is far easier to sell a house when you’re in close proximity to it…

Once finances have been covered and the individual is happy that they have or can get enough money to move to Cyprus, accommodation has to be arranged.  While rental property is in abundance out of season, in season it can be difficult to find anything affordable.  This means that it is important to get somewhere to live at a fixed and agreeable price before moving.  Those considering making a property purchase should spend time in Cyprus getting to know who the reputable building companies and estate agencies are and which areas best suit them in terms of community and amenities and facilities before committing to a property purchase.

Those who are unsure about the move to Cyprus should always leave themselves enough money to get back home with and a place to live should they decide living in Cyprus is just not for them…

How to Move to Cyprus (North)

Moving to live in North Cyprus is more complicated because North Cyprus technically doesn’t exist!  It is a nation (or de facto state) isolated by the international community but one that has finally said ‘I don’t care and I’m getting on with it!’

The transformation in North Cyprus in the past few years since the Turkish Cypriots and international community members took the initiative to kick start the economy, bring in tourists and promote the location as an incredibly beautiful and largely unspoiled gem has been intense and dramatic. 

Many of the same rules apply to a move to North Cyprus as they do to south Cyprus – the rules relating to finances, selling property, finding accommodation and leaving a get out clause.  But the rules of immigration are different.  Those with EU passports can gain entry but can only remain in North Cyprus for a maximum of 90 days before they have to apply for temporary residence.  Anyone who fails to apply within the 90 days must leave the island (going to the South does not count) and re-enter 24 hours later or face daily fines.

Temporary residence is granted for a year and must be reapplied for annually for five years when permanent residency can be applied for.

With regard to moving personal effects to either North or South Cyprus they are transported by sea in a container although a new overland service is available to North Cyprus but it is expensive.  Domestic animals which are covered by the European PETS passport scheme can move to South Cyprus with their owners but all animals entering North Cyprus regardless of whether they are covered by the PETS scheme have to be quarantined for up to 6 weeks (weeks not months).