GESY Overview (Public Healthcare)
If you’re new to Cyprus or planning your move, you’ve probably heard the term GESY mentioned a lot. But what exactly is it, how does it work and what do you need to do to access it?
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you get started.
What is GESY?
GESY (pronounced “Yes-ee”) stands for General Healthcare System and is Cyprus’ universal healthcare scheme. It was introduced in 2019 to provide affordable and comprehensive medical care to all residents — including expats — through a public-private model.
It’s funded through contributions from employees, employers, the state and the self-employed, making it similar to the NHS in principle, but with a bit more flexibility.
Who is Eligible?
You’re eligible for GESY if you’re:
A legal resident of Cyprus (with a residence permit or MEU document)
Registered with the Social Insurance system
Either employed, self-employed, receiving a pension or voluntarily contributing
Expats who live and work legally in Cyprus — or who are retired here — can generally register without issues.
How to Register
Get your Social Insurance Number (if you don’t already have one).
Create an account at the GESY portal.
Choose a Personal Doctor (GP) from the approved list.
Book an appointment to complete your registration and medical history.
Once you’re registered, your GP becomes your go-to for general health needs and referrals.
What’s Covered?
GESY covers a wide range of healthcare services, including:
Visits to your personal doctor (GP)
Referrals to specialists
Blood tests and diagnostics
Hospital stays
Prescriptions
Emergency care
You’ll often pay a small co-payment, capped annually (currently around €150–€300 depending on your situation), which helps keep services accessible while reducing unnecessary visits.
Private vs. Public: Can I Use Both?
Yes! One of the perks of GESY is that it blends public and private healthcare providers. Many private doctors, clinics and hospitals are part of the GESY network, giving you access to top-tier services at minimal cost.
That said, some private providers operate outside GESY — so if you have private health insurance, you can still choose to go completely outside the system.
Things to Keep in Mind
Always bring your ID and GESY number to appointments.
Some services may still have a wait time — especially specialists — so plan ahead where possible.
If you’re self-employed or not working, you’ll need to ensure you're making the correct voluntary contributions to qualify.
Final Thoughts…
GESY has made healthcare in Cyprus far more accessible, especially for families and retirees. While the system isn't perfect, it’s a solid and affordable option that blends public coverage with private convenience — a real bonus for anyone settling into life in Limassol.
If you’ve got questions about registering or finding an English-speaking doctor in the GESY network, feel free to get in touch — or check out the Healthcare Insurance Guide for more details on healthcare cover in Cyprus.
