Do the doctors speak English?

Most doctors and dentists have trained in the UK, the USA or Europe and speak good English. Private clinics employ a high proportion of English-speaking staff at all levels.

What are hospitals like in Cyprus?

Government hospitals equipped with the latest facilities exist in most large towns, providing routine medical care at a relatively low cost.  (Accidents and Emergencies are treated free of charge.)  Many Cyprus doctors of various faculties jointly run ‘Polyclinics’, whose standard in specialist areas is comparable with other highly developed countries. These clinics also tend to have the latest in technology, for testing and treatment. Doctors, dentists, specialists and general practitioners are available everywhere and their fees are quite low compared to European standards. Private Health Care Insurance is relatively inexpensive and widely available. Accession to the EU during 2004 has brought new reciprocal health agreements.

Can I get my prescription medicines in Cyprus?

How much are prescriptions

Ex-patriates are not entitled to free health care or prescriptions in Cyprus, so you will have to pay for all drugs and proprietary medicines at the ‘market’ rate.

Weather

Cyprus enjoys the best Mediterranean climate, with approximately 340 days of sunshine per year.  Paphos has the finest climate on the island, with cooler summers and short, mild winters.  The swimming season starts in April and does not end until November.  Cool pine forests are surprisingly close to the coast and it is possible to ski in the mountains in the winter or stay in cool mountain resorts in summer. The climate on the island of Cyprus is one of its main attractions.  And Paphos has the best of the weather, at all times of year.

Can I buy British newspapers in Cyprus?

However, permanent residents soon tend to change over to the local English-language newspapers – the Cyprus Mail and the Cyprus Weekly – that include both local and ex-patriate news.

Can I receive British television in Cyprus?

If you live within the reception area of the British Forces transmitters, you may also be able to receive British Forces radio and television broadcast services.

How long will it take to build my house?

For a new villa, built from scratch, a good rule of thumb is one year.

Where do I buy furniture and white goods?

You will be spoilt for choice In general, supply is from stock, fast and reliable and many furniture suppliers will ‘make to measure’ as wellpackage offers on this website.

Can I bring my own furniture to Cyprus?

Personal effects, furniture and household goods are free of import duty for ex-patriates, provided everything is for personal use and not brand-new.

How do I establish a bank account?

Cyprus banks commonly offer to issue Visa credit cards against the account and ATMs are widely available throughout the island.  Debit cards are not widely used in shops at present as businesses prefer to receive cheques.

Can I get a mortgage in Cyprus?

Alpha Panareti has a special relationship with a local bank, allowing them to offer exceptionally good rates for mortgage loans.

Will I be able to sell my property afterwards?

There are no restrictions on selling a property in Cyprus and the funds/profits can be re-patriated easily. You may sell your property to both Cypriots and non-Cypriots.

Am I allowed to work in Cyprus?

As full members of the EU from 1st May 2004, you will be able to work freely and there should be equality of opportunity in recruitment. EU citizens may set up their own business in several sectors and merely need to apply for approval of a business permit, which is easily obtained from the Central Bank.

Can I receive my pension in Cyprus?

Can I receive my pension in Cyprus? UK pensions are easily transferable to Cyprus.  Individuals are entitled to receive the first CYP £2,000 of their pension exempt from tax; income tax is applied thereafter at the low rate of 5%. Cyprus has a double taxation agreement in place with the UK.

Do I need to make a Will in Cyprus?

There is no Inheritance Tax (Death Duties) in Cyprus and the probate process works faster than in Britain.

Can I use my UK Driving License in Cyprus?

Yes, your UK driving licence is valid in Cyprus.  However, if you apply for permanent residency, you will be expected to swap it for a Cypriot Driving Licence.  (No Driving Test necessary!)

Are there any English Schools?

There are a number of reputable schools, including International Schools in both Paphos and Limassol for secondary education.  There are many English-language nursery and infant schools.  Fees are very much lower than those in England and standards are high.  Senior students regularly enter British and American universities and there are also many well-established business colleges for further education.

We now have the American Academy in Paphos which opened in September 2004, with the highest education standard.

Can I bring my pets to Cyprus?

If you wish to bring your pet dog or cat to Cyprus, then they must have all the necessary vaccinations and a licence, obtained from the Department of Veterinary Services in Nicosia. If you make contact with the Department in advance, the official Vet will be on hand at the airport. The process is not difficult to follow.

Public holidays

Banks, shops and offices are closed in Cyprus on the following dates: Fixed holidays: