Healthcare & Emergencies
One of the first questions many families have before relocating is: “What happens if we get sick?” And rightly so. Access to reliable, affordable healthcare can make or break your confidence in a new country.
The good news? Cyprus offers high-quality healthcare through both public and private systems, and emergency services are quick, professional, and widely accessible. Here’s everything you need to know to feel secure - whatever life throws your way.
🏛 Public Healthcare: The GESY System
Cyprus’s public healthcare system is called GESY (General Healthcare System). It launched in 2019 and has made major strides in accessibility, affordability, and coverage.
Who can register?
Cyprus residents with a Yellow Slip or valid residence permit
You’ll also need a Cyprus Tax Identification Number (TIN)
What’s covered?
GP visits and specialist appointments
Hospital care and emergency treatment
Prescriptions at heavily reduced prices
Some diagnostic tests and maternity services
Most residents contribute to GESY through small monthly deductions from their salary or income (self-employed individuals contribute directly).
Top Tip: Once registered, you’ll need to choose a personal GP. This doctor becomes your point of contact for referrals and prescriptions.
🏥 Private Healthcare: Speed & Flexibility
Private healthcare in Cyprus is widely used, even by those eligible for GESY. Why? It often means shorter wait times, more English-speaking specialists, and access to high-end private hospitals.
Key benefits:
Appointments within days
Modern facilities, especially in cities like Limassol
Choice of doctors and hospitals
Multilingual support (English is commonly spoken)
Some popular private hospitals in Limassol:
Mediterranean Hospital
Ygia Polyclinic
German Oncology Center (specialist care)
💰 Costs vary—expect to pay around €40–€70 for a private GP visit, and €80–€120+ for specialists. Many people choose private health insurance to cover larger expenses or surgeries (here’s our article covering health insurance)
🚑 Emergency Services
Cyprus has a unified emergency number: 112, which connects you to ambulance, police, or fire services.
Ambulance response is generally quick and reliable, especially in urban areas
Most ERs operate 24/7 in both public and private hospitals
Private hospitals may ask for payment or proof of insurance at the door (unless life-threatening)
⚠️ If it’s not a medical emergency but still urgent (like a sick child at 8pm), most cities have 24-hour private clinics or pediatricians on call.
💊 Pharmacies & Everyday Care
Pharmacies are everywhere in Cyprus—open weekdays and Saturday mornings, with a rotating schedule of night and weekend duty pharmacies (posted online and outside each pharmacy).
Pharmacists are well-trained and often speak English. They can:
Offer over-the-counter medication
Fill prescriptions
Give quick advice for minor issues
Recommend GPs or clinics if needed
👩⚕️ Paediatricians & Family Doctors
Limassol has a wide selection of paediatricians, both public and private. Many cater to expats and speak English fluently.
Some nurseries and international schools also have links with family doctors or recommend preferred pediatric clinics. It’s worth asking around early to get a trusted GP on your radar.
💡 You can also register your children under GESY and assign them a pediatric GP, just like adults.
In Summary…
Cyprus offers excellent public and private healthcare
Emergency services are quick and reliable
GESY covers most basic care at low cost
Private care offers speed, flexibility, and English-speaking staff
Pharmacies are widely available and very helpful
You’ll feel supported and secure, especially once you’ve chosen a family GP or pediatrician
Need a Recommendation? Get in touch—we’ve been through it all and are happy to share personal tips and trusted local contacts.
Also check out our related posts on Health Insurance, Registering with Authorities and Family Life in Limassol section for a complete view of staying safe, healthy and happy in Cyprus.
