HEALTH CARE

Health and medical care in Cyprus is readily available and the standard of care throughout the health sector is excellent. There is also no language problems as the majority of doctors and surgeons speak English. One thing that surprises many people is the fact that there is virtually no waiting list to see a doctor. Visiting a hospital or having dental treatment can be completed as soon as you enter the health centre.

There are also many private clinics for those with or without health insurance and the costs in Cyprus are a lot cheaper than in he UK. The vast majority of medical costs are half of what they would cost in the UK. This is also the case with Opticians.

Resident of an EU Country

To obtain an EU health certificate, you must apply to the Health Service of your resident country. All EU countries issue this card.

UK Residents

UK residents planning to travel in Europe should apply for the EU Health Card before leaving. The UK Health Service will issue UK residents with a card confirming they will pay for medical treatment while living or travelling abroad in the EU for up to five years. This is adequate “Health Insurance” to meet Cyprus immigration requirements, which means that a person under state retirement age does not need to have private medical insurance. However, it is our recommendation for those travelling and residing in Cyprus is to arrange some form of private medical insurance.

NOTE: The EU Health Card is not a substitute for FULL travel Insurance

Cyprus Health Service

The Cypriot standard of health is very good and has a very low rate of epidemic or infectious diseases. No vaccinations are required for people entering Cyprus. The Medical and Public Health Services department continually monitors the safety of local food and water supply.

The health care in Cyprus is provided through a system of private and public sectors. Government general hospitals are in all the main cities, as well as a good network of smaller hospitals, clinics and dispensaries throughout the country. There is also a private health sector in urban areas, dominated by many individual doctors in private practice.

Almost all brands of manufactured medicines are available in Cyprus and pharmacies sell many prescription drugs over the counter like in the UK.

Private Medical Insurance

If you require private medical insurance, there are three types of policies in operation offering different levels of cover and premiums:

 (1) Local Cyprus Private Medical Insurance – Low cost, acute conditions only and limited cover.

 (2) International Private Medical Insurance – High cost, but will suit international workers

 (3) Bespoke Private Medical Insurance – Medium cost, Full cover and highly recommended.