Insurance Requirements for Moving to Cyprus
Securing appropriate insurance is a mandatory step for any foreign national planning to relocate to the Republic of Cyprus. The requirements vary significantly based on the individual's nationality, the type of residency permit sought, and the planned duration of stay. For most applicants, proof of health insurance is a prerequisite for the issuance of entry visas and residency permits by the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Mandatory Health Insurance for Residency
All non-EU nationals (third-country nationals) applying for temporary or permanent residency must provide evidence of a private health insurance policy. This policy must cover both inpatient and outpatient care, as well as the repatriation of remains. This is often referred to locally as "Plan A" or "Migration Insurance."
- Coverage Limits: Standard policies typically provide coverage for medical expenses up to €13,500 ($14,580 USD, Jan 2026) per year.
- Estimated Costs: A basic private health insurance plan for residency purposes generally costs between €120 ($130 USD, Jan 2026) and €200 ($216 USD, Jan 2026) per person annually, depending on the age of the applicant.
- Validity: The policy must be valid for at least one year and must be renewed annually to maintain legal residency status.
For official details on residency requirements, visit the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Provisions for EU and EEA Nationals
EU/EEA citizens moving to Cyprus have different initial requirements compared to third-country nationals. While they have the right to reside in Cyprus, they must still demonstrate health coverage when applying for a Registration Certificate (Yellow Slip) if they are not yet employed by a Cyprus-based company.
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
The EHIC provides EU citizens with access to state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay. However, the EHIC is not a substitute for long-term health insurance and is generally not accepted as sufficient proof for permanent residency registration. Once an EU national begins working and contributing to the Cyprus Social Insurance scheme, they become eligible for the General Healthcare System (GHS/GESY).
The S1 Form
Pensioners or posted workers from EU member states should obtain an S1 form from their home country’s social security office before moving. This document allows the individual to register with the Cyprus healthcare system (GESY) using their home country's social security contributions. This eliminates the need for a private "migration" policy for residency purposes.
Transitioning to the General Healthcare System (GESY)
The General Healthcare System (GESY) is the universal healthcare framework in Cyprus. Foreigners become eligible to register for GESY only after they have obtained their residency permit and are either working, paying social insurance, or have established permanent residency.
GESY Contributions
Participation in GESY is funded through mandatory payroll deductions and contributions. As of 2025/2026, the standard contribution rates are as follows:
- Employees: 2.65% of gross income.
- Employers: 2.90% of the employee's gross income.
- Self-employed: 4.00% of income.
- Pensioners and Rent Income Earners: 2.65%.
For more information on registration and benefits, visit the Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) Official Portal.
Other Essential Insurance Types
Beyond health coverage, foreigners should consider several other insurance categories before or immediately upon arrival in Cyprus:
- Travel Insurance: Recommended for the transit period and the first few weeks before a local private policy or GESY registration is active.
- Vehicle Insurance: Mandatory for all car owners. Third-party liability is the legal minimum. Comprehensive cover for a mid-sized sedan typically starts at €300 ($324 USD, Jan 2026) per year.
- Home/Property Insurance: Often required by banks if purchasing property via a mortgage. For renters, "tenant's liability" insurance is recommended but rarely mandatory by law.
Please note: Administrative requirements for insurance can change based on legislative updates. It is advised to check the latest circulars from the Ministry of Interior or consult with a licensed insurance agent in Cyprus.
