moving/working in cyprus

[shedboy83]

hi, we are a couple in our mid thirties with a small child aged nearly 3yrs and we are seriously thinking of living and working in cyprus.
we would prefer Limassol as we have spent a few holidays there in the last 7-8 yrs and we like the people, area and culture, it offers the typical cypriot way of life but also has the tourist areas and is central to airports and other towns .

I have experience in catering/security ex chef/baker and prison officer (but would consider anything)whilst my partner has 20 yrs experience as a senior stylist and salon manageress.
can anyone give us an approx idea of what we could expect wage wise in these types of jobs and the weekly hours??

We would be looking at renting out our own house over in britain to cover rental costs in Limassol until we decide wether we would buy our own property.again any idea on rental prices for a small house or 2 bed flat in the area???

Our other major worry is with regards to being allowed to live and work in Cyprus,what are the stipulations or requirements on this for non-cypriats if any??

Also any info regarding nursery and schooling for our child and how this would work and what criteria is required to enrole??

any other information on emmigrating would be most appreciated.

many thanks

[Aphrodite]

Ist thing is there is a lot of stuff to rent and the rents vary enormously. Also look in the local papers and try to approach landlords direct and haggle. They will do deals and the agents charge top money. You can pay as little as £200 pcm. Avoid places with a pool as they are usually unnecesarily expensive. Touris t area in Limassol tend to be the most expensive. Schools are private and also vary in fees. State schools require a level of greek and academically poor standards. As Eu poeple you have right to live and work here. Must apply for a permit or employer sbould get it for you. Wages are a lot lower - but so is cost of living. Taxes are lot less too. Wages for bar work can be as low as £2.50 per hour. There is a minimum wage here but it is often ignored. Best way is to work for yourself. Jobs are getting better and again look at local papers and forums on the net to get a flavour of wages etc. Greeks prefer to take greeks or pay a pittance and can be real slave drivers.. but so can Brits! The local papers to check out are The Cyprus mail, They Cyprus Weekly and The Sunday Mail. All in English. You are right about Limassol best part of the island for access to everything and facilities. Good luck