Healthcare in Cyprus: What you should know
Health is one of the most important assets of all. It doesn’t matter whether you’re living at home in your country of origin or travelling abroad. For digital nomads and expats in particular, the following questions often arise:
- What is the healthcare situation like at my destination?
- Does my insurance cover me?
- And if not, how can I be on the safe side in case I do fall ill?
Here, we’re focusing on Healthcare in Cyprus – and that’s why, in this guide, we’ll try to answer all your questions from a Cypriot perspective. Whether you’re moving to the island for tax benefits, a better lifestyle, or simply seeking a change of scenery, making sure you have access to quality medical services is crucial.
As an EU citizen, you’ll want to know how the healthcare system works, whether your insurance covers you, and what options are available for you and your family. The country offers a mix of public and private systems, so it’s important to understand what’s best for your situation. So, stay tuned, buckle up, and keep reading!
Is Healthcare in Cyprus Good?
Probably the most important question, and the one most people consider first, is: “Is Healthcare any good in this Mediterranean paradise?”
The short answer to that question is: “Yes, it absolutely is!”. Cyprus offers a well-rounded system with both public and private options, giving you flexibility based on your needs and preferences.
The public system, also known as the General Healthcare System (GHS), provides affordable care for residents, including expats, who register for it. The private system, on the other hand, offers faster access to specialists and top-notch facilities, though, it comes at a higher cost. So, up to here, everything works almost exactly as in most other EU countries.
There’s a reason why many expats and EU citizens living in Cyprus speak highly of the healthcare system. And that is, that when it comes to quality, the island consistently ranks incredibly well internationally. Modern medical facilities are equipped with advanced technology and highly trained professionals. You’ll find specialised care across various fields, from cardiology to dentistry, with doctors often trained internationally.
Public Healthcare in Cyprus
Now that you know the basics, let’s dig a little deeper. The country has a public system called the GHS or GeSY, which provides affordable services to residents. It’s a universal system, meaning everyone living on the island, including expats, can benefit from it once they’re registered.
If you’re only visiting the island temporarily, your EU health card will cover emergency medical care.
Good to know: Anyone with statutory health insurance, for example in Germany can receive emergency treatment in all 27 EU member states as well as in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the UK and Switzerland with the European Health Insurance Card.
However, it won’t cover long-term or specialised treatments. So, if you plan to stay long-term, registering for the GeSY is an important point to consider.
If you’re relocating under the “non domicile Cyprus” status for tax reasons, you can benefit from certain tax advantages, including healthcare. While not directly linked to medical care, the tax savings might make private options more affordable if you prefer faster access and more specialised services.
Private Healthcare in Cyprus
There are plenty of private clinics, hospitals, and specialists across the island, especially in larger cities like Nicosia, Limassol, and Paphos. These facilities often provide faster appointments, shorter waiting times, and more personalised care compared to the public system.
The costs for private healthcare in Cyprus are, of course, higher, but many expats find the advantages worth it. You can expect to pay for doctor consultations, treatments, and surgeries out-of-pocket, or through private health insurance.
While prices vary depending on the service, they are generally lower than in other European countries. However, that does not necessarily mean that quality is lower. Many doctors in private clinics are trained abroad, offering international standards of care in fields like surgery, dental service, and specialised treatments.
Many doctors and specialists have studied at renowned universities in Germany, Great Britain or the US.
One of the most significant differences between public and private options on the island are the speed of service. In the private sector, you’ll typically get appointments and treatments much quicker, which is why many expats prefer private healthcare. Especially for non-emergency or specialised services. The convenience and personalised attention are also key reasons why some choose to go private.
Good to know: At this point, we would like to share our own experiences. The public sector also offers many advantages. Whereas in other European countries you wait months for an appointment with a specialist, here you get an appointment comparatively quickly. Whether it’s a dermatologist, gynaecologist or hospital. Appointments can be made the very next day or the following week.
Consider getting help
Registration is usually carried out by a general practitioner who will also be your family doctor.
If you would rather not bother with that, a relocation consultant can be a great help. These professionals assist with all the paperwork for registering with the GeSY and can guide you through selecting the best options based on your needs.
Pros and Cons of the System
As you can see, the healthcare system in the country is generally in good shape, and you shouldn’t worry too much. If you’re American or from another country where the system is, let’s say, less than optimal, it can even seem like paradise! However, there are a few caveats. Let us show you some pros and cons of the system on this beautiful little island.
Pros of the System:
- Affordable public options: The GeSY offers free or subsidised services for residents.
- High-quality private options: Private clinics and hospitals provide fast access to specialised treatments.
- Well-trained doctors: Many medical professionals are trained abroad.
- Low cost of living: Costs, especially in the private sector, are more affordable compared to many European countries.
- Tax advantages: The “non domicile” status allows businesses and families to benefit from tax savings, which can help offset private healthcare costs.
Cons of the System:
- Longer wait times in the public system: The GeSY, while affordable, can have delays for non-urgent treatments.
- Limited options in rural areas: Access to specialised care may be more difficult in remote areas.
- Paperwork for expats: Registering for public healthcare requires legal steps, such as obtaining a yellow slip and more.
Cyprus Healthcare? You got it!
With both public and private systems available, expats on the island can choose what works best for them. Registering for the GHS is key for long-term residents, while private options ensure quicker service. For a smooth transition, consulting a relocation company can help with paperwork and choosing the right plan. With the appropriate steps, settling into the Cypriot system is hassle-free, leaving you to enjoy your new life on the island!
