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Cyprus is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean and a member of the European Union. It has a pleasant climate, beautiful landscapes, and a safe, family-friendly environment. This guide gives you a full picture of what to expect when you move to Cyprus with your children. It covers where to live, schools, healthcare, social benefits, things to do, kindergartens, and the immigration steps for EU families.
Table of Contents
- Cyprus: a welcoming place for families
- Where to live with children in Cyprus
- Safety for children in Cyprus
- The education system in Cyprus
- Homeschooling in Cyprus
- Healthcare for children in Cyprus
- Social benefits and child allowance
- Integration of children
- Leisure activities for children and teenagers
- Private or state kindergarten?
- Legal and immigration considerations for EU children
Cyprus: A Welcoming Place for Families – Amazing awaits
Cyprus also offers useful advantages for people who run a business.
In this guide, our team gives you a full picture of what to expect when you move to Cyprus with your children.
Where to Live with Children in Cyprus
If you are thinking of moving to Cyprus with your family, we especially recommend the city of Larnaca.
Many other places are busy with tourists in summer and very quiet the rest of the year. Larnaca stays lively all year round. It gives you a good mix of city life, culture, and nature. Rents are moderate compared with other cities, and the city works well for families.
Larnaca has many types of homes. You will find modern apartments in the city and comfortable houses and villas on the edge of town. Many districts are built with families in mind, with playgrounds, parks, and schools close by.
Larnaca is also close to the international airport. This makes it easy to travel and to welcome visits from family and friends.
Safety for Children in Cyprus
Cyprus is considered a very safe place for families with children. The crime rate is low compared to other European countries and there are many safe, child-friendly neighbourhoods. Children can often play freely and without worry, particularly in smaller towns and suburbs. The local police are present and help to keep the area safe.
The Education System in Cyprus
Schools are a key point for families thinking about a move to Cyprus.
Cyprus has both state and private schools. State schools are free, but lessons are in Greek. For this reason, many international families choose private international schools, even though these charge fees.
International schools in Cyprus usually offer a high standard of education and teach in English, which helps children settle in fast. Many of these schools follow the British curriculum. They prepare students for well-known qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or A-Levels.
In our more than 20 years of experience, children pick up the language very fast. Most learn English within a few months. This opens up new chances for them, both at school and with new friends.
Homeschooling in Cyprus
Homeschooling is not allowed in Cyprus. As a rule, parents must send their children to a recognised school. In some cases, special permission may be looked at one by one.
If your family needs to homeschool, contact us first and we can explain the rules.
Healthcare for Children in Cyprus
Healthcare is another important point. Cyprus has a national healthcare system (GESY / GHS Cyprus) that gives broad access to medical care.
In Larnaca, you will find well-regarded pediatricians and private hospitals with high standards. The medical system is well developed, which can give families peace of mind about their health.
Besides the public system, there are many private healthcare providers with a wide range of services. These private clinics are often well equipped and offer special treatments that public hospitals may not have.
Parents can take out private health insurance for themselves and their children in Cyprus. The premiums are usually lower than in most of Western Europe.
Social Benefits and Child Allowance
Cyprus has several social benefits that help families. One of them is the child allowance, which is paid based on your income and the number of children you have.
It is a good idea to check the exact rules and how to apply before you move, so you can make full use of the support on offer.
Integration of Children
Settling into the local and international community in Cyprus is usually easy. It is simple to meet people and make friends, whether through clubs, groups, or school.
Children may face some changes when they adjust to life in Cyprus. They need to get used to a new language, new friends, and a new school. It helps to sign them up for activities they enjoy. This makes settling in easier.
There are affordable language courses for both children and adults to help you settle in. However, if you choose an international school, your children do not need to speak Greek. Nevertheless, it is nice to learn a few phrases that children will pick up naturally.
Many international communities in Cyprus hold regular meetings and events. These are a good chance to meet other families and share experiences.
Leisure Activities for Children and Teenagers
Cyprus has a wide range of things to do for children and teenagers. Here are some of the options:
Water activities
In Cyprus, children can swim, snorkel, and dive in the sea for much of the year. There are many swimming schools and snorkelling courses just for children. The beaches are family-friendly, and many slope gently into the water, which suits younger children.
Sailing and surf camps
For more adventurous children and teenagers, and adults too, sailing and surf camps are a chance to learn sailing or windsurfing with a trained guide.
Activities on land
The island also has plenty to do on land. Children can hike with you in the hills and mountains, go on cycling trips, or explore one of the many parks and nature reserves.
Sports clubs
Football, tennis, basketball, and many other sports are popular in Cyprus. Many sports clubs welcome children of all ages. This helps them make new friends while they play the sport they love.
Creative and cultural activities
If your children like art, there are many art and music schools. They offer lessons in painting, musical instruments, and dance. There are also many cultural events and festivals just for families and children.
Playgrounds and theme parks
Across the island you will find well-equipped playgrounds and several theme parks that families love. They are safe, fun places where children can play and run around.
Animal and nature parks
A visit to one of the animal and nature parks in Cyprus can be both fun and educational for children. The Camel Park in Mazotos and the Zoological Garden in Paphos are two good examples.
Private or State Kindergarten?
This choice depends on a few things, such as your budget and what your family prefers.
State kindergartens are free and provide good care, but lessons here are also in Greek. Private kindergartens often teach in two languages and have smaller classes, but they charge fees.
Many international families choose private international kindergartens, as this gives their children an easier start.
Legal and Immigration Considerations for EU Children
Parents who move to Cyprus with their children should know about a few legal points.
For EU citizens, living in Cyprus is simple, and you do not need a visa. But you do need to register with the local immigration office within three months of arrival and apply for a residence permit (MEU1 form – Yellow Slip). Attending school is also required for all children, so parents must enrol them in a school.
It is also good to know that EU children who move to Cyprus with their parents can use the same schools and healthcare as Cypriot children. To avoid legal problems, make sure your children are in school and that you register with the right offices.
With more than 20 years of experience and a team that is largely international and has been through a move like this first-hand, we can guide you through each step.
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