Why are so many people moving to Cyprus?
The trend of moving to Cyprus has been increasing enormously since 2019, especially for expats who want to move to Cyprus from the United Kingdom, the US, and Western Europe, such as Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.
But why do entrepreneurs and families choose this island instead of, for example, Dubai, Bulgaria, or Malta?
- Cyprus is the ultimate tax haven in the EU: Cyprus offers attractive, fully legal tax benefits for expats (more on this later), allowing you to keep your wealth in your own pocket.
- Everyone speaks English: As a former British colony, more than 80% of the population speaks fluent English. All business and legal documents and daily interactions can be handled in English.
- Safety and family first: Cyprus is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is exceptionally rare, making it a paradise for raising children.
- An average of 320 days of sunshine: The Mediterranean climate offers long, warm summers and mild, short winters.
- High-quality healthcare and education: The island boasts first-class private clinics (GeSY's public healthcare is also excellent) and leading British international schools.
Taxes and other benefits of Cyprus
- 15% corporate tax: one of the lowest in Europe,
- 8% Flat Tax on crypto traders (and 0% for “Hodlers”),
- 0% tax on dividends and interest for Non-Domain residents,
- 0% inheritance and capital gains tax,
- Lower cost of living: housing, food, and energy are more affordable than in Western Europe,
- Very safe, English-speaking and friendly country,
- Fully EU-recognized, not an “offshore structure” but a transparent, legal system,
- Pension is taxed at only 5% above €3,420, meaning you keep much more of your pension.
One More Extra: 50% income tax exemption.
While traditional law firms limit themselves to filing visa applications, we look at your total assets.
Are you a high-earning professional or entrepreneur with an annual income of more than €100,000? Then Cyprus offers a huge incentive: a 50% exemption from income tax.
If you move to Cyprus and take up local employment, 50% of your income is completely tax-free for up to 17 years.
You do not have to work for someone else to benefit from this. We can help you set up your own Cypriot Ltd, appoint yourself as director, and pay yourself a salary of more than €100,000.
You benefit from 50% income tax, combined with a low corporate tax rate of 15% for your company.
Our trump card: Independent housing and real estate guidance
To obtain a residence permit in Cyprus, you must have a registered local address (a rental contract or a purchased home). Most commercial service providers abandon you at this stage, or worse, refer you to expensive property developers who pay them hidden and exorbitant commissions.
We do things differently, and more honestly: We are Western expats who know the local market inside out. We offer a 100% independent service for finding real estate, for both rent and purchase.
- Real estate guidance for €500: We charge a fixed, transparent fee of €500 for a personal search for your perfect home and ensure you do not fall into pitfalls when buying or renting your home in Cyprus.
- The refund: If you decide to buy a home through our network, you will receive this €500 back in full.
It does not matter to us where you buy, and that is precisely our trump card; the only thing that counts is that your property meets the strict immigration criteria, safeguards your assets, that you feel comfortable on the island, and that there are no hidden defects.
Important Info: The difference between North and South Cyprus
The island is politically divided into two parts:
- Southern Cyprus (Republic of Cyprus): internationally recognised, part of the EU, safe and legally stable.
- Northern Cyprus: recognized only by Turkey, non-EU, legal uncertainties and risks regarding real estate
For those who want to live legally, safely and with tax benefits: always choose South Cyprus.
Climate in Cyprus
With an average of 320 sunny days per year, Cyprus is one of the sunniest places in Europe.
The summers are hot and dry, the winters mild and short. The Mediterranean climate has a proven positive effect on human health and mental well-being.
Where to live in Cyprus?
- Paphos: Popular with expats, family-friendly, good real estate prices. (Our best choice)
- Limassol: business hub, vibrant, expensive real estate
- Larnaca: central, close to the airport, more local
- Nicosia: capital, mainly interesting for employees or government functions
Rent or Buy?
Both are possible.
Renting offers the perfect flexibility for newcomers to discover the island. Buying (especially new builds starting from €300,000), on the other hand, is the ideal strategic move if you, as a non-EU citizen, want to secure the Golden Visa immediately.
Note that rental prices have nearly tripled since 2020, and due to high demand and rising real estate prices, it still pays to buy in 2026.
Banking
Opening bank accounts as a non-resident can be complicated. Local assistance is strongly recommended, given the traditional banking system, long wait times, and in-person appointments.
Once you are an official resident, it becomes easier. International transfers, crypto transactions, and multi-currency accounts are available at the larger banks. However, everyone in Cyprus uses Revolut, and we highly recommend it as well.
Internet & Co-working
Internet quality varies, but cities offer fast fiber connections. Co-working spaces are available in Limassol, Nicosia, and Paphos.
Working or doing business & setting up a company
Cyprus is ideal for:
- Remote working (you retain your customers in BE/NL)
- Freelance activities (self-employed status or sole proprietorship)
- Incorporate a company (Ltd or Holding)
A limited liability company (Ltd.) can be established starting from approximately €2,500. The incorporation process takes approximately 7 business days. Tax optimization and privacy structures are perfectly feasible with the right advice.
Healthcare, insurance and education
The national health system GeSY provides basic care to everyone registered and liable for tax here. In addition, many expats opt for international health insurance to remain covered in Belgium or elsewhere in Europe.