How does the Tax system work in Southern Cyprus?
If you are a pensioner from a country that has a tax treaty with Cyprus, you can avoid double taxation. The US, USA, Canada and many other countries have already concluded tax treaties with Cyprus. If in addition, the pensioner’s regular income is more than CYP 2000 s/he will not have to pay taxes except for a 5% tax on their pension income, which is extremely low.
Will I receive free Medical Care in Cyprus?
Yes, most call Cyprus one of the healthiest Mediterranean countries - well known for its quality health care, well trained doctors, its priority on preventative medicine, and a network of both public and private medical facilities. Government supports public health services through social security which is available to all residents, whether citizens or not. However foreign visitors or tourists do not receive the full extent of medical services and must avail of private health insurance if they want full coverage. Plus facilities are limited when it comes to long-term care for the elderly and for the terminally ill such as hospices.
If you are from a European Union member state, you have the right to enjoy the same medical and health care as Cyprus citizens. However you must have the appropriate E-Form or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) issued by your own country of origin. The E-Forms and EHIC can apply to temporary visitors, pensioners who will live permanently in Cyprus, a worker from a EU member state who will work in Cyprus for a specific time period, a student, etc. The Forms/EHIC entitle you to all medical treatment necessary while you are in Cyprus. You have to register with the Cyprus Health Ministry.
Where do I buy food and other items?
Med Life Club Village has a supermarket on-site, however you may wish to sample the local fresh produce markets as they are still a part of daily life in Cyprus. Farmers bring their produce to town on certain days of the week, and you can buy fresh meat, fish, cheese, sausages, fruit, spices, clothing, bags, handicrafts such as woven rugs and home made jams. You can haggle if you know how. The outdoor markets offers fashionable but cheap clothing, lace and beautiful textiles. You can also have clothing custom made. There are supermarket chains for your regular shopping in Cyprus. Imported items are a little more expensive but local produce is cheap, cheap, cheap.
What is the cost of living in Cyprus?
Your lifestyle will determine your expenses in Cyprus. You can live cheaply if you buy from local individual vendors and weekly markets. Eating out can also be inexpensive if you don’t patronize trendy restaurants. Buy and live like a Cypriot – that’s the way to go. Actually the cost of living in Cyprus is the lowest in the Mediterranean. Local produce is not only cheap but also organic, and so healthy for you. There are cheap local beers and other alcoholic drinks.
In addition, there is very little crime and both cities and villages are usually safe especially for women and children. People are friendly; the climate is fine; and the island is beautiful.
Hows the weather in Cyprus?
Bad weather may not seem to exist in Cyprus. It is best known as a beautiful and historic island of flowers and sunshine. However winter comes in January and February, the most uncomfortable months weather wise, when heavy rain showers can keep you indoors. March is however already spring and by April and May, the days are warm and nights are cool. The whole landscape turns green and dotted by wild flowers. Summer is from June to August. You need only light clothing and the weather is perfect for swimming and other water sports. You may need air conditioning if you tend to wilt with heat. It is still warm during November but you might need some heavier clothing at night. It rains occasionally in December, but days are still sunny and you can still enjoy the Cyprian outdoors.
