Emigrating to Cyprus is not a decision to be taken lightly, but thinking about your needs and the expectations of a move is important. This includes everything from ensuring you meet any customs regulations first to the physical move itself and elements such as car shipping.
EU Citizens
EU citizens can move to Cyprus very simply. Cyprus is part of the EU and those moving to the country from within the EU or EEA will receive the same rights as Cypriot nationals. This includes working and operating companies – meaning those with a dream to start a business in Cyprus can do so very easily when moving from the UK. Long term however, Brexit and the British removal from the EU is likely to make this process more difficult for British nationals.
Non-EU Citizens
Non-EU or EEA citizens looking to take permanent residency in Cyprus need to meet a number of criteria. This is called the Scheme for Naturalization of Investors in Cyprus by exception and will grant the option of receiving a Cypriot citizenship. The requirements are either:
– Investment in Cyprus totals one million euro
– Your salary in Cyprus generates over €100,000 in taxes over a three-year period
Further to this you will need to own property in Cyprus with a purchase price exceeding €500,000.
Finding a property in Cyprus
Cyprus is awash with properties for both purchase and rent. In particular, Limassol is popular for expats moving to the country and while rent is much cheaper than here in the UK, it is often seen as a stop-gap before home ownership in the country.
The most popular route to buying a home in Cyprus is through an English speaking estate agent based in the country. These specialists offer a beneficial impact to movers as legal requirements, property options and taxes due are likely to be much clearer. Often consultants will specialise for those relocating to the country.
Shipping a car to Cyprus
Using a shipping company to send belongings safely to Cyprus is essential. In most cases it is much cheaper to relocate property than it is to buy everything new once arriving.
Shipping a car is no different, it is important to work closer with an international car shipping specialist to ensure the timely move of a car, customs clearance and the delivery of a car at your needed port or area of residence is completed.