How to Enroll in the Public Healthcare System in Cyprus

If you're planning to enroll in the public healthcare system in Cyprus, this article covers the requirements for foreigners to be able enroll in the public healthcare system, the steps involved and more.

The public healthcare system in Cyprus is known as the General Healthcare System (GHS). It is a relatively new system, having been fully implemented in 2020, and is designed to provide comprehensive healthcare services to all residents of Cyprus. The quality of healthcare in Cyprus is generally high, with a good standard of medical facilities and well-trained medical professionals. The cost of healthcare is funded through contributions from employees, employers, the state, and other sources.

Enrollment in the GHS is mandatory for all residents of Cyprus, including both Cypriot nationals and foreign residents. Most people in Cyprus use the public healthcare system, although private healthcare is also available and is used by some residents, particularly for specialist treatments or to avoid waiting times for certain procedures.

Eligibility for Foreigners

Foreign residents are eligible to enroll in the GHS if they are legally resident in Cyprus and are either working and paying social insurance contributions, or are members of a family of someone who is working and paying social insurance contributions. This includes both EU and non-EU nationals. EU nationals who are not working but are resident in Cyprus may also be eligible under certain conditions, such as if they are pensioners or students.

Steps for Enrolling in the GHS

1. Register for a Social Insurance Number: This is a prerequisite for enrolling in the GHS. You can apply for a Social Insurance Number at the local District Labour Office.
2. Register for the GHS: Once you have a Social Insurance Number, you can register for the GHS online at the GHS website. You will need to provide your Social Insurance Number, personal details, and details of your employment or other basis for eligibility.
3. Choose a Personal Doctor: After registering for the GHS, you will need to choose a Personal Doctor from the list of doctors participating in the GHS. You can do this online at the GHS website.
4. Pay Contributions: Contributions to the GHS are deducted automatically from your salary if you are employed. If you are self-employed or not working, you will need to arrange to pay contributions yourself.

Additional Information

If you are an EU national and have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can use this to access necessary healthcare services in Cyprus until you are enrolled in the GHS. However, the EHIC is not a substitute for enrolling in the GHS and does not provide access to the full range of healthcare services available under the GHS.

If you are not eligible to enroll in the GHS, or if you prefer to use private healthcare, there are many private hospitals and clinics in Cyprus. Private healthcare costs can be high, so it is advisable to have private health insurance if you choose this option.

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