Cyprus loses popularity as an expat destination

Once a favourite for British retirees and those looking to work, Cyprus’s appeal seems to be declining, according to a recent survey.

The 2019 version of the Expat Insider survey has delivered a number of shocks, with one involving formerly popular Cyprus and its downward direction as regards the essential expat quality of life and lifestyle. This year’s study wiped 15 points from its last year’s ranking of 30th out of 68 destinations, leaving it in a poor 45th place. In the crucial Quality of Life category it was an-all-time loser after dropping in just about every sub-category including leisure activities. One responder went as far as saying Cyprus is boring for those expats who’re single and middle-aged.

In addition, Cyprus’s ratings for healthcare took a hammering, with less than 50 per cent saying the present system is still affordable, and the quality of care given was also downrated by 45 per cent of respondents. The island’s recent change to its new national health insurance system seems to have been problematical and unpopular, as many expatriates have been denied registration and mandatory contributions are making private health insurance even less affordable.

Personal finance was also in responders’ sights, with the island dropping from 36th to 54th in the relevant index. Last year, some 70 per cent of expats were happy with their financial situation, compared with just 53 per cent of those who took the 2019 survey. Just 39 per cent reported they had enough income to support daily life, as against last year’s global figure of 49 per cent. As regards European expat destinations, Portugal came out tops due to good personal finance scores and ease of settling in. Vietnam took the Southeast Asian crown in second place overall, and troubled Kuwait hit rock bottom as the worst destination of all.