According to the cost of living comparison website Numbeo, the cost of living in the UK is around 11% higher compared to Cyprus, but when rent is factored in, this difference rises to 26.5%. It is important to remember, however, that the cost of living and rental varies hugely across the UK. While prices in the UK are generally higher than in Cyprus, for many highly skilled jobs, the wages may be much higher here. Also, remember that the cost of living in the UK tends to be higher in and around London and in the South of England. This is why we recommend ‘casting the net’ for where you might wish to live across the wider UK.
Emigrating to the UK from Cyprus – Checklist`
We know that moving to a new country can seem daunting and overwhelming, but by completing the following steps, you can reduce the burden and make the process of relocating much easier.
Engage the services of an experienced and trusted immigration specialist in the UK who can deal with all of the immigration and visa aspects of your move for you. They will listen to your background, current circumstances, and future plans and recommend the best path forwards. Immigration specialists understand all of the visa types available to Cypriot and EU nationals, including the self-sponsorship pathway (see below for more details).
If you plan to work in the UK, get yourself a job first. You will need a job offer from a licenced sponsor with a salary that meets the minimum requirements before you can apply for a work visa.
Draft a budget to compare your expected net income with your likely costs in the UK. Where possible, speak to someone who lives in the UK who can explain the current cost of insurance, food, fuel and energy, council tax, etc.
Work out your moving costs, including transportation, removal fees, and rental deposits.
Create a short list of the areas in which you would like to live in the UK, taking into account the distance to/from work and the cost of living.
Visit the UK to find out where you would like to live, find a house, organise schooling, etc.
EU driving licence: If you are under 67 when you become a UK resident, you can drive using your EU license until you turn 70. If you are 67 or older upon residency, you can continue driving with your EU license for up to three years.