Cyprus has an unusually deep connection with the United Kingdom — a British Crown Colony until 1960, with the British sovereign base areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia still existing on the island today. English is widely spoken as a first or near-first language across much of the island, British cultural influences remain strong, traffic drives on the left, and there is a large, established British expat community. Cyprus joined the EU in 2004 and the eurozone in 2008. The island offers Mediterranean climate, low taxes, an established tech and financial services sector (particularly in Limassol), and a cost of living meaningfully below Western European capitals.
Why Londoners Move to Cyprus
- English language — Cyprus has the highest English proficiency of any non-anglophone EU country. Many Cypriots are functionally bilingual; English is used alongside Greek in business, government and daily contexts. For UK nationals, this removes the language barrier almost entirely
- Historical British connection — British expat communities are established across the island. British pubs, British-format supermarkets, left-hand traffic, cricket clubs and a familiar administrative culture make the transition unusually comfortable
- Tech and financial services hub — Limassol has become a significant hub for technology companies, fintech and forex trading. Major international brokers, online gaming companies and tech startups have regional headquarters here. English-language job market is well-developed
- Low personal income tax — Cyprus’s income tax is progressive up to 35%, with the first €19,500 of income tax-free. The Non-Domiciled (Non-Dom) status eliminates tax on dividends and passive income for qualifying new residents for 17 years — a very significant benefit for investors and business owners
- EU member — full EU single market membership, euro currency, EU residency rights
- Climate — 340 days of sunshine per year. Hottest and sunniest EU member state
Post-Brexit: Visa and Residency for UK Nationals
Cyprus is an EU member state. UK nationals require a residence permit for stays over 90 days.
Category F (Financially Independent Person) — the most popular route for retirees and passive income earners. Requires proof of regular income from abroad (pension, investments) of at least €2,000/month per individual plus secure accommodation. Does not permit working in Cyprus.
Employment permit — for those with confirmed employment from a Cypriot employer. Apply at the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD).
Self-employment / company director — for business owners and entrepreneurs establishing or managing a Cypriot company. Cyprus’s company law (a legacy of British legal tradition) is familiar and accessible.
Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment — fast-track permanent residency available for investment in Cyprus real estate or business assets from €300,000.
After arrival:
- Register at the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) in Nicosia or Limassol
- Obtain your ARC (Alien Registration Certificate) / residency document
- Apply for a Cypriot Tax Identification Code (TIC) from the Tax Department
- Register with the Social Insurance Services for healthcare and social insurance
Where to Live in Cyprus
Limassol (Lemesos) — Cyprus’s business capital and the most cosmopolitan city. Port city on the south coast, fast-growing, strong Russian and British expat communities, excellent restaurants and nightlife. The Old Town is being revitalised; the seaside promenade is excellent. Most of the tech and financial services jobs are here.
Nicosia (Lefkosia) — the capital, divided city (north occupied). Business and government administration. Less appealing for quality of life than Limassol; more functional. Strong expat professional community.
Paphos — western coast. Beautiful, archaeological heritage (UNESCO World Heritage Site), quieter, significantly more affordable than Limassol. Very popular with UK retirees. Good direct flights to UK airports.
Larnaca — eastern coast. Less glamorous than Limassol but practical. International airport (Larnaca International), affordable, growing expat community.
Ayia Napa / Protaras — eastern tip, famous for summer tourism but with a genuine year-round community. Very affordable out of season.
Cost of Moving from London to Cyprus
| Service type | Estimated cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Part-load (shared) | £700 – £1,500 | Studios, 1-bed flats, personal effects |
| Full-load (dedicated van) | £1,600 – £3,400 | 2-bed+ homes, full households |
| Professional packing add-on | £250 – £700 | Full household packing by our team |
Get a free fixed-price quote for your removals to Cyprus.
Estimated transit time — London to Cyprus: 7–10 working days (sea crossing via Mediterranean).
Frequently Asked Questions: Moving from London to Cyprus
Do I need a visa to live in Cyprus after Brexit?
Yes. UK nationals need a Cypriot residence permit for stays over 90 days. The most common routes are Category F (financially independent — requires €2,000+/month income) and employment permits. Apply at the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
What is the Non-Domiciled (Non-Dom) status in Cyprus?
Non-Dom status allows qualifying new Cypriot residents to pay zero tax on dividends and passive income received from abroad for 17 years. This is a significant benefit for investors, entrepreneurs and those with investment portfolios. Consult a Cypriot tax adviser to confirm eligibility.
Is English sufficient for daily life in Cyprus?
Yes — better than almost anywhere else in the EU outside Ireland. English is widely spoken as a near-first language. Greek is useful for rural areas and deeper social integration, but the majority of daily life in Limassol, Paphos and Larnaca can be managed entirely in English.
How long does a removal from London to Cyprus take?
Transit from London to Cyprus typically takes 7–10 working days, involving Mediterranean sea crossing.
Does Easy Move handle EU customs documentation for Cyprus?
Yes. Cyprus is an EU member state and Transfer of Residence relief applies to all household goods shipped from the UK.
Ready to move? Our team handles the full process: packing, customs and delivery.