1 Before you move

Choose your visa or residency routeEU and non-EU citizens follow different routes. Work out which one applies to you before you book anything. Guide
Decide where to liveCompare the four main cities and their neighbourhoods. Guide
Gather your documentsPassports, birth and marriage certificates, qualifications and medical records, with translations where needed. Guide
Plan your shipping and removalsDecide what to bring, how to ship it and how to bring pets. Guide
Check your tax positionFind out whether you could become tax resident and what non-dom status means for you. Guide
Shortlist schoolsIf you have children, apply early: international schools fill up. Guide

2 Your first weeks

Find a home to rentSearch, view and sign a rental agreement. Guide
Register as a residentApply for the right residence document for your situation. Guide
Open a bank accountMost day-to-day life and rent payments need a local account. Guide
Get a local SIM and set up utilitiesElectricity, water and internet in your name. Guide
Learn how to get aroundBuses, taxis and driving in Cyprus. Guide

Register with GESYJoin the national health system and choose a personal doctor. Guide
Sort out your car and road taxRegister or renew and pay road tax on time. Guide
Find work or set up your businessJob hunting, freelancing or registering a company. Guide
Learn the local calendarOpening hours, working hours and public holidays. Guide
Build your social circleMeet people through events, clubs and expat groups. Guide
Explore the islandWeekend hikes, food festivals and wine routes. Guide