Moving to Cyprus

The island of Cyprus, under Greek control in the south and Turkish control in the north, has become a very popular expat destination. The island’s growing appeal is largely due to its recent economic growth, diverse cultural influences, improved transport links and fantastic weather, an enticing combination for both local and foreign businesses and, therefore, enterprising expats as well retirees.

 

There has been a lot of animosity between the northern and southern divisions of Cyprus over the years and a UN buffer zone has been established between the two to keep the peace while attempts to resolve the dispute are ongoing. Southern Cyprus is more developed than the north but both divisions have steadily growing economies, well-established business, tourism and transport infrastructures and flourishing property markets.

 

Employment opportunities are available in both the north and south of Cyprus. The south has an established business industry that is constantly recruiting skilled workers from all over the world, as well as a newly established oil industry that is very promising. The northern section of the island is becoming more and more accessible and the tourism industry is growing rapidly in the area. Being less developed, the north also offers more opportunities for entrepreneurial expats.

 

Expats will find the cultural influences in Cyprus very diverse, an effect of its turbulent history as part of the Roman Empire and then the United Kingdom, only having established its independence in 1961, and its subsequent division between Greek and Turkish administrations. These international influences are evident throughout Cyprus, from its cuisine and entertainment variations to the distinct architectural trends.

 

About three quarters of the population in Cyprus is made up of Greek Cypriots, just under a fifth are Turkish Cypriots, and the remaining inhabitants are minorities from all over the world including Britain, Thailand, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Armenia. There are also a number of Serbian, Palestinian and Lebanese refugees living on the island. All these different cultures and nationalities make it very easy for expats to feel at home in Cyprus.