Cyprus attracts thousands of international families and professionals each year with its Mediterranean climate, EU membership, English-speaking environment, and favorable tax regime. Relocation involves far more than finding a property — it requires coordinated planning across banking, residence permits, schools, healthcare, and practical settlement. OCM Real Consulting provides a structured, step-by-step relocation process.
We guide you through the whole process, from choosing the right program to holding your residence card and settling in.
For people who plan to live in Cyprus on independent income from abroad, without working for a local employer. We build the application around your situation and your family.
What’s included
The decision is made by the Cyprus authorities. The result is not guaranteed.
For foreign nationals employed by a Cyprus company. It lets you live and work in Cyprus on the basis of your employment contract.
What’s included
The decision is made by the Cyprus authorities. The result is not guaranteed.
The Fast-Track route for investors who buy qualifying property or make another approved investment in Cyprus.
What’s included
A qualifying investment does not by itself guarantee approval. The decision is made by the Cyprus authorities.
For remote employees, freelancers and founders who work for clients or companies outside Cyprus.
What’s included
The decision is made by the Cyprus authorities. The result is not guaranteed.
For owners, investors and teams who want to base a business in Cyprus and relocate through it.
What’s included
Tax and legal outcomes depend on your individual circumstances.
A 3–5 day trip to Cyprus built around your goals, so you can see properties, meet the people involved and get a feel for the areas before you decide.
What’s included
The tour is for information only and does not commit you to a purchase.
A single person needs approximately €1,800–€2,000 per month including rent. A family of four should budget at least €4,500 per month. Key monthly costs: rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ranges from €1,200–€2,200 in Limassol, €900–€1,500 in Paphos, and €800–€1,300 in Larnaca. Utilities average €100–€200 per month. Groceries for a family run €300–€500. International school fees range from €5,000–€15,000 per year. Healthcare is covered through the General Healthcare System (GHS) with small monthly contributions. Overall, Cyprus offers 30–40% lower living costs compared to Western European capitals.
Limassol is the business and international hub — largest expat community, most international schools, highest property prices, vibrant social scene, corporate headquarters. Paphos offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, strong British expat community, good international schools, lower costs, and excellent climate. Larnaca provides the best value with growing international facilities, proximity to the main airport, and marina-driven development. Nicosia (the capital) suits those working in government, banking, or professional services — most affordable property but landlocked and hotter summers.
We generally recommend renting for the first 6–12 months unless you already know Cyprus well. Renting allows you to explore neighbourhoods, understand commute patterns, and test school proximity before committing €200,000–€500,000 to a purchase. Current rental market: Limassol 1-bed €800–€1,500/month, 2-bed €1,200–€2,200, 3-bed €1,800–€3,500. Paphos is 20–30% lower. From July 2026, all rent payments must be made electronically under the new Cyprus Tax Reform. If you decide to buy, our Rent vs Loan program can help you transition from tenant to homeowner.
A Cyprus bank account is essential from day one — for rent payments, salary deposits, utility bills, and school fees. Account opening requires: passport, proof of address, employment documentation, source of funds evidence, and bank reference letter. Processing takes 2–4 weeks with a properly prepared file. We recommend starting the banking process 4–6 weeks before your planned arrival date. Major banks include Bank of Cyprus, Hellenic Bank, and Eurobank. We help prepare your complete banking file and coordinate with the bank to ensure your account is active when you arrive.
Non-EU nationals need a valid residence permit to live in Cyprus beyond 90 days. The main options are fast-track permanent residence by investment (from €300,000 in property, company shares or investment funds), temporary residence for financially independent persons, working residence permits through Cyprus employers, business immigration for founders and key staff, and the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers (minimum €3,500 monthly income). EU citizens need only register for a Yellow Slip (registration certificate). We coordinate the preparation process with qualified immigration specialists.
Cyprus offers excellent international schooling options. Major international schools follow British, American, or IB curricula. In Limassol: The Heritage Private School, Foley's Grammar School, The Grammar School Limassol. In Paphos: The International School of Paphos, ISOP. In Larnaca: The American Academy. Fees range from €5,000–€15,000 per year depending on the school and age group. Registration should begin 3–6 months before the planned move, as popular schools have waiting lists. We provide guidance on school selection based on your family's educational priorities and residential area.
Cyprus operates the General Healthcare System (GHS/GESY) — a universal healthcare system funded through contributions from salaries and income. Permanent residents and workers are automatically enrolled. Coverage includes GP visits, specialist consultations, hospital care, and prescriptions with small co-payments. Private health insurance is required for residence permit applications and recommended during the initial settlement period before GHS enrollment is active. Major private hospitals include Mediterranean Hospital (Limassol), Aretaeio (Nicosia), and Iasis (Paphos).
Entrepreneurs relocating to Cyprus benefit from: 15% corporate tax (among the lowest in the EU), no tax on dividends, IP Box regime for intellectual property income, extensive double-tax treaty network (65+ countries), and the Non-Domicile tax status (exemption from Special Defence Contribution on dividends and interest for 17 years). Company registration costs approximately €165 plus €100 fast-track fee. The Business Facilitation Unit (BFU) scheme provides expedited processing for companies with €200,000+ share capital. We coordinate company registration, banking, office space, and residence permits as an integrated package.
After arrival, key tasks include: activating your bank account and setting up online banking, registering with the local municipality, obtaining a Cyprus mobile number, setting up utilities (electricity via EAC, water via local board), registering for the General Healthcare System, obtaining a Cyprus driving license (if staying 6+ months), registering children at school, and familiarizing yourself with local services. We provide a structured checklist and support through each step to ensure nothing is missed during the critical first month.
Start with a private consultation. We will review your goals, explain the process and help you understand the safest next step.
Key information about requirements, costs, and 2026 regulatory changes.
Your request is private. OCM Real Consulting will contact you to understand your goals and recommend the most suitable next step.
