Relocating to Cyprus

Registering for residence

Regulation on emigration of UK (or other European citizens) to Cyprus is not strict and the Cypriot authorities encourage the settlement of expats in Cyprus as they tend to bring money into developing areas. If you intend to settle in Cyprus you will need to register for residence. More information about registration can be found here. http://cyprus.angloinfo.com/countries/cyprus/cymoving.asp

Finding work in Cyprus

If you are moving to Cyprus and intending to find employment or self employment on the island you will need to register with the Census records and migration department. Upon arrival in Cyprus you will have 3 months in which to seek work before you are required to register. Cyprus has a developing business culture and there are still jobs available in most areas of business although salaries are generally lower than equivalent roles in the UK. Tourism provides plenty of opportunities for seasonal work in tourist hotspots.

It will be easier to find employment in any role if you can speak a good level of Greek (or Turkish in Northern Cyprus). The best place to start is checking out the types of roles available on international job boards like http://www.jobsabroad.com/Cyprus.cfm and find out more about work permits here http://www.justlanded.com/english/Cyprus/Cyprus-Guide/Jobs/Work-permits

Cost of living & Money

The cost of living in Cyprus is relatively high compared with other European countries although when moving from the UK you should still find prices cheaper on average for everyday living.

The Euro is the official currency of Cyprus (in the South, Northern Cyprus still use the Turkish Lira).

Global banks have a presence in Cyprus to deal with your money during the move and ATM’s are commonplace in built up areas.

Transport & Driving

Unlike most other European countries Cyprus have a right-hand drive system and drive on the left hand side of the road which is familiar to British expats moving to Cyprus meaning many choose to export their cars when emigrating to Cyprus. Cars can be imported providing the owner purchased the car more than 6 months previously in their own country and the relevant paperwork is in place.

Accommodation in Cyprus

The cost of property in Cyprus has been driven up considerably in recent years with the migration of British expats to the island and the cost of the Euro, however buying property which can be rented out as a holiday home still represents a good investment, esepcially if yoou're planning on moving between the UK and Cyprus throughout the year. You can rent villas in Cyprus through holiday property rental sites like holidaylettings.co.uk and offer your home for rent only on the dates when you're not using it.