LongStay Cyprus
logo
Company Logo
LongStay Cyprus
Pension Abroad: No Cuts to Your German Pension in Cyprus – The Comprehensive Guide
Breadcrumb Shape Bird Illustration

Pension Abroad: No Cuts to Your German Pension in Cyprus – The Comprehensive Guide

Pension Abroad: No Cuts to Your German Pension in Cyprus – The Comprehensive Guide
  • 21 Jul 2025 · 09:53 PM
  • 28 min read
  • Category: Retirement Planning , Cyprus Destinations , Long Stay Packages

Pension Abroad: No Cuts to Your German Pension in Cyprus – The Comprehensive Guide

The dream of retirement under the southern sun, far away from the cold German winter, is increasingly attracting German retirees abroad. However, with the anticipation of a new life in a Mediterranean climate, concerns and uncertainties often arise: Will my German pension be cut when I live abroad? What happens to my health insurance? What tax pitfalls need to be considered? These questions are absolutely legitimate and crucially important for planning a carefree retirement overseas.

A persistent rumor circulates that German pensions are generally cut when moved abroad. The good news upfront: in most cases, and especially in countries popular among German retirees – such as Cyprus – you can receive your pension in full and without any reductions. The legal situation is complex, but with proper preparation and knowledge of the regulations, you can enjoy your retirement abroad to the fullest.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed information on the legal situation, the effects on your pension payments and health insurance, as well as the tax implications when you receive your pension abroad. We will explain when and under what specific conditions pension cuts abroad might occur, and precisely illustrate why Cyprus is an ideal destination to spend your retirement carefree and financially advantageously. Our goal is to provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision for your life abroad – factual, clear, and easy to understand.

1. German Pension Abroad: Fundamental Regulations and Agreements

The fear of pension cuts abroad is widespread but often unfounded. The German Pension Insurance (Deutsche Rentenversicherung – DRV) generally pays out statutory pensions to retirees who relocate their residence abroad. The decisive factors are the type of pension and the country of residence.

1.1 Pension Payments Abroad: The Basic Principle

Under German law, you can generally receive your statutory old-age pension from the German Pension Insurance in any country in the world. There are no general geographical restrictions or blanket reductions simply due to residing abroad. This means your standard old-age pension, based on your contributions, will generally continue to be paid in full, no matter where you live. The DRV transfers the amounts in Euros to an account you specify. This can be a German account, from which you then transfer the money yourself abroad, or directly a foreign account. However, for transfers to non-Euro countries, you must consider the exchange rate risk and any bank fees for currency conversion.

1.2 The Role of EU Regulations and Social Security Agreements

The most important basis for straightforward pension receipt abroad are international agreements. Within the European Union, the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland, German retirees enjoy comprehensive freedom of movement rights. Your German pension will be paid here in full and without any deductions. This includes all 27 EU member states as well as Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. The annual pension adjustments decided in Germany also apply to you, ensuring your pension value keeps pace with developments in Germany. The payment process is particularly straightforward and free of charge within the Eurozone through the SEPA system, which significantly simplifies financial management.

Furthermore, Germany has concluded bilateral social security agreements with many countries outside the EU/EEA. These agreements aim to ensure that pension entitlements do not lapse and that pension periods from different countries can be credited. As a result, pensions are generally paid without restrictions. Key destinations covered by such agreements include the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Turkey, Tunisia, Morocco, Brazil, Chile, and many others, providing you with payment certainty. Only in a small number of third countries with which Germany has no social security agreement might very specific restrictions or cuts occur. These usually concern only certain pension components, such as pensions due to reduced earning capacity based on the labor market situation, or specific pension types. However, a general cut in the old-age pension due to residing abroad is uncommon even in these cases.

1.3 Reporting Obligations and Certificates of Life

Regardless of where you receive your pension abroad, you have certain reporting obligations towards the German Pension Insurance. Adhering to these is crucial to ensure smooth pension receipt and to avoid pension cuts abroad due to missing evidence. For instance, you must immediately report any change of your residence (even if it's just a temporary secondary residence) or your postal address. This ensures the German Pension Insurance can always reach you to send important notifications or the annual certificate of life.

Similarly, you should always keep your bank details up-to-date and ensure they are suitable for international transfers. It is advisable to inquire with your bank about any fees for international transfers to avoid unexpected costs. In many countries outside the EU/EEA, an annual certificate of life is required. With this document, you confirm to the pension insurance that you are still alive and thus remain entitled to your pension. These certificates often need to be confirmed by a local authority, a German foreign mission, or a bank to ensure their validity. Changes in personal circumstances, such as taking up new employment that could affect the pension amount, must also be reported. Furthermore, changes in marital status or other relevant personal circumstances can influence pension entitlement and must therefore be communicated. Proactive communication with the German Pension Insurance and diligent fulfillment of all reporting obligations are always the best way to prevent such issues.

2. When Pension Cuts Abroad Could Occur (And Why Not in Cyprus)

Although German pensions are generally paid out in full abroad, there are very specific exceptions and constellations where pension cuts abroad are possible. It is important to be aware of these to determine if they might affect you. However, for retirees wishing to spend their retirement in Cyprus, these scenarios are generally not relevant, as the island represents a secure choice.

2.1 Special Pension Types with Restrictions in Third Countries

The most common cases where pension cuts abroad can occur involve certain types of pensions when residing in a third country with which Germany does not have a social security agreement. This includes, for example, pensions due to reduced earning capacity. For this type of pension, a distinction is made as to whether the retiree is still available to the German labor market. If residing in a third country without an agreement, the pension may be reduced to the part based solely on medical reasons, with the portion considering the labor market situation being eliminated. In countries with agreements or within the EU, it is generally paid in full.

Specific components of survivor's pensions, such as widow's or widower's pensions based on child-rearing periods, could be affected in very rare cases and in certain third countries. However, such cuts are the absolute exception and concern only very specific constellations outside the EU/EEA area. Similarly, social compensation pensions, such as those under the Federal War Victims' Relief Act (Bundesversorgungsgesetz) or similar regulations, may also be subject to restrictions if the beneficiary lives in a third country without an agreement. These are pensions paid due to special circumstances (e.g., consequences of war, vaccine damage) and do not stem from regular contribution payments. Since Cyprus (South Cyprus) is an EU member and Germany has comprehensive social security agreements with many other countries, the pensions of most German retirees who relocate to Cyprus are not affected by such cuts. EU law provides comprehensive protection for your entitlements here. Even in North Cyprus, which is not an EU member, practical experience shows that the German pension is transferred in full, as the German Pension Insurance generally pays out to unrecognized territories. Therefore, you can be highly confident that your pension payments will arrive in Cyprus without any reductions.

2.2 Missing Reports or Proofs

pension cut abroad (or rather a temporary suspension of payment) can also occur if you fail to comply with your reporting obligations to the German Pension Insurance. This is not a "cut" in the true sense, but a suspended payment that will be resumed once the necessary proof is provided. This happens, for example, if you fail to submit the crucial annual certificate of life on time. If you do not submit it promptly, payment may be temporarily suspended. The pension insurance needs to ensure that the pension is paid to a living person.

Similarly, payment may be suspended if the German Pension Insurance (DRV) cannot reach you due to an unreported change of address to send important notifications or the certificate of life. It is your duty to inform the DRV of your current place of residence. Unreported changes in personal circumstances, such as taking up new employment that could affect the pension amount, must also be reported. Changes in marital status or other relevant personal circumstances can also influence pension entitlement and must therefore be communicated. Proactive communication with the German Pension Insurance and diligent fulfillment of all reporting obligations are always the best way to prevent such issues and ensure smooth pension receipt.

2.3 Tax Deductions in the Country of Residence vs. Cuts by the DRV

It is crucial to clearly distinguish between a pension cut by the German Pension Insurance (which rarely occurs) and deductions due to taxes in the country of residence. These two processes are legally entirely separate and have different causes and effects. The German Pension Insurance only cuts pensions under very specific legal conditions, as explained earlier, which typically concern rare exceptions and not the standard old-age pension.

However, the country of residence where you are tax resident may have the right to tax your German pension. This means that a portion of your pension, as income, will be taxed according to the laws of that country, resulting in a lower amount available to you after these taxes. This is not an arbitrary cut by the DRV but a taxation in accordance with the valid national laws of the country of residence and the inter-state Double Taxation Treaties. As you will learn in more detail in the section on taxes, Cyprus offers extremely attractive tax regulations for foreign retirees. These can lead to your pension being minimally or even not taxed there at all. This is a clear financial advantage and, unlike a "cut," represents a legal and often very beneficial tax optimization. Thus, Cyprus offers an opportunity to maximize your net pension through a strategic choice of residence.

3. Health Insurance Abroad: Your Security in Retirement

In addition to the question of pension cuts abroad, health insurance is a central pillar for a carefree retirement abroad. The regulations for this are complex and depend on your status (statutory or private insurance) and the country of residence. Careful planning in advance is crucial to ensure you are fully covered in case of an emergency.

3.1 Statutorily Insured Retirees in the EU/EEA and Switzerland

For statutorily insured retirees who relocate their residence to a country within the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, the situation is clear and advantageously regulated. You benefit from the European coordination rules for social security. When you relocate your residence to such a country, you obtain Form S1 (formerly E121) from your German health insurance fund. This serves as proof of your insurance status in Germany. With this Form S1, you can register with the health system of your new country of residence. You will then receive medical services according to the rules of that country – under the conditions and costs prevalent there. The German health insurance fund continues to cover the costs for treatment abroad; you only need to comply with local requirements. You can deregister in Germany and "take your statutory health insurance with you," or opt for voluntary continued insurance in Germany to retain the scope of German services, even if you primarily live abroad. For shorter trips or temporary stays in other EU countries (e.g., wintering abroad, without changing residence), the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers medically necessary treatments. It serves as proof of your German insurance and grants access to state services. Since Cyprus (South Cyprus) is an EU member, it is fully integrated into this system. You can register with the Cypriot health system (GeSY/GESY), introduced in 2019, and gain access to good medical care according to European standards.

3.2 Privately Insured Retirees Abroad

For retirees who are privately insured in Germany, different rules apply, which should be thoroughly checked before moving abroad. Many private health insurance policies already offer worldwide coverage, which is valid for temporary stays abroad (often up to 6 months per year). It is important to check the exact conditions of your policy in this regard. In case of permanent emigration, you may need to adjust your policy to ensure indefinite worldwide coverage. This could lead to changes in costs, as policies for stays abroad are often calculated differently and premiums can vary depending on the country. Furthermore, ensure that medically necessary repatriation to Germany in an emergency is covered. This service is often not automatically included in all policies and should be insured separately, as the costs in an emergency can be very high and are not covered by statutory health insurance.

3.3 Health Insurance in Third Countries (like North Cyprus)

For retirees who relocate their residence to a third country (or stay there for longer periods) – such as North Cyprus, which is not an EU member and therefore does not fall under EU regulations – different, independent rules apply. The European Health Insurance Card is not valid in North Cyprus, so you cannot receive treatment through your German statutory health insurance. Private international health insurance is strongly recommended and often a prerequisite for a residence permit. There are a number of providers offering special policies for long-term stays abroad, whose costs can vary significantly depending on age, health status, and desired scope of services, but are often more moderate in Cyprus (including North Cyprus) than in Germany. Comparing different offers is worthwhile here to find the right coverage. North Cyprus has a good network of private clinics, but for very complex or specialized treatments, travel to South Cyprus or Turkey may be necessary, as the availability of highly specialized doctors can be more limited. In summary, medical care in Cyprus is good in both the South and North and is generally accessible. For South Cyprus, the situation is very comfortable and straightforward for statutorily insured individuals due to EU regulations and the GeSY system. For North Cyprus, private insurance is necessary, but it is available at moderate prices and offers you security in case of illness.

4. Tax Aspects: The Taxation of Your German Pension Abroad

The taxation of German pensions abroad is a complex matter that often leads to uncertainties. The issue here is not pension cuts abroad, but rather which country has the right to tax your pension and what the ultimate tax burden will be. Cyprus offers particularly attractive advantages in this regard, which can significantly increase your net pension.

4.1 Tax Residency: Where Are You Taxable?

The question of tax residency is crucial, as it determines which country has the right to tax your worldwide income. Tax residency is determined by the tax laws of the respective countries. You remain subject to unlimited tax liability in Germany if you continue to maintain a residence in Germany and use it, or if you stay in Germany for more than six months (183 days) per year. In this case, your worldwide income (including your pension) is taxed in Germany. This also applies if you are only spending a temporary period with your pension abroad. If you give up your residence in Germany and stay there for less than 183 days per year, you become subject to limited tax liability in Germany. In this case, only certain German source incomes (such as the German pension) are taxed in Germany. The right to tax is then often regulated by the Double Taxation Treaty. If you establish your primary residence in another country and meet the requirements for tax residency there (e.g., more than 183 days of stay per tax year or the "60-day rule" in Cyprus under certain conditions), you become subject to unlimited tax liability in that country. This is when the right to tax your pension often shifts to the new country of residence.

4.2 Double Taxation Treaties (DTT): Clear Rules for Your Pension

Germany has concluded Double Taxation Treaties (DTTs) with many countries to prevent income from being taxed twice simultaneously. The DTT regulates which country has the right to tax various types of income and how taxation is carried out. In most DTTs, including the agreement between Germany and Cyprus, it is stipulated that pensions are taxed in the country of residence of the retiree. This means that if you transfer your tax residence to Cyprus and become resident there, Cyprus has the primary right to tax your German pension. Germany will then exempt you from German taxation to avoid double taxation. Even if your pension is taxed in Cyprus, it may still be taken into account in Germany for calculating the tax rate on any other German income (e.g., rental income from Germany). This is known as the progression clause (Progressionsvorbehalt). This does not lead to double taxation of the pension itself but can influence the tax rate for other income.

4.3 Cyprus as a Tax Haven for Retirees: Your Opportunity for Tax Optimization

South Cyprus (Republic of Cyprus) offers one of the most attractive tax regimes for foreign retirees in Europe. This is a crucial advantage and the reason why your pension abroad will not be cut here, but rather optimized, which can lead to a significantly higher net pension. Foreign pensions transferred to Cyprus from Germany can be taxed at a flat rate of just 5%. This applies to the portion of the pension that exceeds €3,420 per year. This flat tax rate is extremely low and makes Cyprus particularly attractive.

Additionally, there is a general annual tax-free threshold of €19,500 for all types of income. This means if your total annual pension or total income is less than €19,500, you will pay no income tax on your pension in Cyprus at all. This is a significant advantage for many retirees with moderate pensions, allowing them to retain their full pension. Cyprus levies neither a wealth tax on existing assets nor an inheritance tax on inheritances. This provides additional financial relief and planning freedom for your assets and their transfer to future generations. Furthermore, foreign dividends and interest are tax-exempt for individuals with "Non-Domicile" status (which applies to most foreign retirees and can be granted for up to 17 years). This means that passive income from abroad does not need to be additionally taxed in Cyprus.

Example Calculation for a German Pension in Cyprus (simplified):

Let's assume your monthly gross pension is €2,000 (equivalent to €24,000 per year):

  • Annual Pension: €24,000

  • Tax-Free Amount in Cyprus (Pension Privilege): €3,420

  • Taxable Pension Portion (after pension privilege): €24,000 - €3,420 = €20,580

  • Tax at 5% Flat Rate: €20,580 * 0.05 = €1,029 annual tax

  • Comparison to General Threshold: Since the total income (€24,000) exceeds the general tax-free threshold of €19,500, the amount above €19,500 would theoretically be subject to the normal progressive tax rate if the retiree does not choose the 5% flat rate or if this rate only applies to the first €3,420.

  • The bottom line remains: Your tax burden on your pension in Cyprus will be significantly lower than in Germany, where the same pension would be taxed considerably higher and there are no comparable thresholds or flat rates.

In North Cyprus, tax rates are generally lower than in Germany or South Cyprus. There are also tax-free thresholds, and foreign pensions are often minimally taxed or even tax-exempt. However, since North Cyprus is not internationally recognized, there is no direct Double Taxation Treaty (DTT) with Germany. Therefore, careful planning and, if necessary, professional advice are particularly important here to avoid or minimize double taxation.

Important Note: Tax matters are highly complex and individual. The information provided here is for general guidance only and cannot replace individual tax advice. It is essential to seek professional tax advice from a tax consultant specializing in international tax law, both in Germany and in Cyprus.

5. Practical Aspects of Living Abroad: From Daily Organization to Social Connections

A carefree retirement abroad means more than just settled finances and insurance. The practical organization of daily life and social integration are equally crucial for your well-being and quality of life. A well-planned daily routine can minimize many potential stressors abroad.

5.1 Residency: Temporary or Permanent?

Your decision for a temporary stay (e.g., wintering in Cyprus) or permanent emigration has far-reaching practical and legal consequences that you should carefully weigh. For a temporary option, you retain your main residence in Germany and do not need to deregister in Germany, which saves many bureaucratic steps. Your German statutory health insurance remains in place, and for stays in EU countries like South Cyprus, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is valid. Your German pension continues to be taxed in Germany. This model is ideal for "snowbirds" who want to escape the cold but plan regular returns to Germany and wish to maintain their usual structures there.

For permanent emigration, however, you give up your main residence in Germany and deregister there. You establish a new tax and legal residence in the destination country. Your health insurance is adjusted to the destination country's system, often through Form S1 for EU countries, which regulates cost coverage by the German health insurance. Your pension is generally taxed in the destination country, as stipulated by the Double Taxation Treaty (DTT). This option is intended for those who wish to permanently relocate their center of life and begin a new chapter abroad.

5.2 Daily Life in Cyprus: Cost of Living and Mobility

The cost of living in Cyprus is, as mentioned, significantly lower than in Germany, especially in North Cyprus. This means your German pension has greater purchasing power here and allows you a more comfortable lifestyle. Rental and property prices are more moderate than in Germany, often enabling you to afford a larger or more luxurious accommodation, be it an apartment with sea view or a small villa with a garden. Fresh local products, especially fruits, vegetables, olives, and cheese, are often very affordable at markets. Imported goods can be more expensive, but by focusing on local products, you can achieve significant savings. Rental cars are affordable (especially in winter) and offer great flexibility. The public transport network in South Cyprus is decent, while in North Cyprus, affordable shared taxis (dolmuş) are a popular alternative. Services like hairdressers, craftsmen, and restaurant visits are generally less expensive than in Germany, allowing you to enjoy more services in daily life. A particular financial advantage are heating costs, which are minimal in Cyprus due to mild winters – a significant saving compared to often high heating costs in Germany.

5.3 Social Connections and Integration: Never Alone in Paradise

A fulfilling retirement abroad largely depends on social connections and how easily you can integrate into a new environment. Cyprus offers excellent conditions and a supportive atmosphere in this regard. Particularly in popular regions like Paphos, Limassol (South Cyprus), and Kyrenia (North Cyprus), active German communities have formed. These organize regular meetups, excursions, and cultural events that significantly facilitate social connection. You can quickly find like-minded individuals for shared interests and avoid feeling alone. The Cypriot population is known for its warmth and openness towards foreigners. It is often easy to connect with locals and feel welcome, which can lead to enriching intercultural experiences. In addition to Germans, there are many expats from the UK, Scandinavia, and other European countries. This creates a diverse and multicultural social environment that broadens horizons. Whether it's golf, hiking, yoga, cultural visits, or cooking classes – there are numerous opportunities to share interests and make new friends. Many clubs and associations warmly welcome newcomers.

5.4 Medical Care On-Site

The quality of medical care is a crucial factor, especially for seniors abroad. The healthcare system in South Cyprus meets European standards. There are modern hospitals and private clinics that are well-equipped. Many doctors have studied abroad (often in the UK) and speak excellent English or even German, which significantly facilitates communication in case of illness. North Cyprus also has a good network of private clinics with moderate prices, although private health insurance is necessary here as EU regulations do not apply. However, the costs for these insurances are often cheaper than in Germany. Pharmacies in Cyprus are well-stocked, and many common medications are available. It is advisable to have a list of your required medications (with active ingredient names) in English to facilitate communication with doctors or pharmacists. Dental treatments in Cyprus are also often significantly cheaper than in Germany and offer high quality.

6. Cyprus: Your Ideal Destination – No Pension Cuts Abroad, But Many Advantages

Cyprus stands out among potential destinations for retirement abroad. The island offers a unique combination of benefits that not only ensure seamless pension payments but also significantly enhance the quality of life.

6.1 Unbeatable Climate: Year-Round Sunshine and Well-being

Cyprus is one of the sunniest regions in Europe, averaging 340 sunny days per year. This abundance of sunshine positively affects mood and promotes Vitamin D production, boosting overall well-being. Winters in Cyprus are mild, with pleasant 15-20°C along the coast, ideal for outdoor activities like walks or hikes while the rest of Europe freezes. The dry, sunny climate also positively impacts health conditions such as rheumatism and respiratory diseases, and can help prevent winter depression, which many retirees find to be a great advantage.

6.2 Financial Benefits: More Pension, More Life

Your German pension will be paid in full in Cyprus (both South and North Cyprus) without any cuts. You need not fear any financial losses from the German Pension Insurance, as international agreements regulate this. You benefit from attractive tax advantages, especially in South Cyprus, where a 5% flat tax rate on pensions above €3,420 and a high general tax-free threshold of €19,500 can lead to significant tax savings. As a result, your pension in Cyprus has considerably greater purchasing power, particularly in North Cyprus, where living costs are significantly lower than in Germany. Another advantage is that Cyprus levies neither a wealth tax nor an inheritance tax, offering additional financial relief and planning freedom for your assets and their transfer.

6.3 High Quality of Life and Safety

Enjoy a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, characterized by the Cypriot "siga-siga" mentality, which promotes stress reduction and conscious enjoyment of life. Daily life is less hectic than in Germany, leading to an overall more relaxed existence. Cyprus is considered one of the safest countries in the Mediterranean, with a very low crime rate, so you can feel secure and enjoy your retirement carefree. The widespread knowledge of English also facilitates daily communication with authorities and doctors, making it easier to settle in. The island's rich culture and nature offer countless opportunities for excursions, cultural discoveries, and outdoor activities, ensuring variety and enrichment in daily life.

6.4 The Divided Island as a Strategic Advantage

The unique political situation of Cyprus allows you to combine the advantages of both parts, making your stay particularly attractive. You can live in the more affordable North and benefit from significantly lower rental and living costs, where you often find more living space for your money. At the same time, you can utilize the amenities of the EU South and easily switch for banking, EU health standards, or other services. The transition between North and South Cyprus is straightforward and quick, allowing you to explore the entire island and experience the different cultures and offerings of both sides. This provides unparalleled flexibility and optimized value for money.

7. Getting to Know Cyprus: Trial Living for an Informed Decision

Before making a definitive decision about your retirement abroad, it is essential to get to know your potential new home country extensively and under realistic conditions. A short holiday often provides a distorted picture and overlooks the reality of daily life. An extended trial living stay offers you the opportunity to go beyond the tourist perspective and experience daily life comprehensively.

7.1 Why Trial Living is Indispensable

An extended stay allows you to go beyond the tourist perspective and experience daily life. You can experience the climate in different seasons and determine what it truly feels like to live there. Simultaneously, you get to know the infrastructure in daily life and gain a realistic sense of the actual cost of living, beyond tourist prices. Furthermore, you can make initial contacts, understand local customs, and assess how easily you can integrate into the community. This cultural integration is crucial for your well-being. Practical experiences are also of great value: you test the medical care, local mobility, shopping options, and how well you cope with potential bureaucratic processes. These practical experiences are invaluable for future emigration. Last but not least, you can visit various regions of the island and find the place that best suits your personal preferences (coastal, urban, mountainous, rural). What seems appealing on holiday might not be ideal for daily life, and you see how your pension realistically covers expenses and where you can optimize your budget. These real experiences are often more insightful than any theoretical calculation and provide you with financial security.

7.2 LongStay Cyprus: Your Ideal Partner for a Carefree Trial Living

LongStay Cyprus specializes in tailor-made long-term stays, perfectly designed to help you get to know Cyprus comprehensively and authentically. This concept is the ideal preparation for anyone planning to transfer their pension abroad. The unique LongStay Cyprus concept is based on strategic accommodation, where you reside in comfortable hotels or apartments in more affordable North Cyprus and benefit from the price advantages there. The accommodations are carefully selected to ensure a pleasant and practical stay.

A core part of the program is comprehensive island exploration through guided excursions. These take you to the highlights in both North and South Cyprus. This way, you experience the island's full diversity, from ancient sites to natural wonders, without having to worry about planning or transport. Some packages even include an international perspective through fascinating excursions to neighboring countries (e.g., Egypt with its pyramids). This highlights Cyprus's strategic location as a gateway to the Orient and offers you unique experiences beyond the island. Comfort and support are paramount: All logistical aspects are organized for you – from airport transfers to accommodation and meals, all the way to qualified German-speaking tour guides. You can fully concentrate on experiencing and getting to know the island, free from organizational stress. And last but not least, you benefit from social connections, as you travel in a group of like-minded individuals, which facilitates exchange and making new friends. These social connections can also endure beyond your stay.

An Example: The 30-Day Trial Living Package: This package is ideal for gaining a deep insight into life in Cyprus and experiencing why your pension abroad holds such value here:

  • Comfortable accommodation in North Cyprus.

  • Comprehensive program with up to 20 guided excursions to the highlights of both parts of the island.

  • One international excursion (e.g., to Cairo).

  • All transfers and German-speaking support are included.

This comprehensive offer allows you to experience daily life in Cyprus, test the cost of living, evaluate the medical care, and get a realistic picture of your potential new home – all while your pension abroad flows securely and unreduced into your account.

8. Conclusion: Your German Pension in Cyprus – No Cuts, Only Advantages

The concern about pension cuts abroad is largely unfounded for German retirees wishing to spend their retirement in Cyprus. The unique combination of stable pension payments, attractive tax advantages, lower living costs, and a high quality of life makes Cyprus an ideal destination for your retirement.

Key Insights at a Glance:

Your pension is secure: Your German pension will be paid in full and without cuts in Cyprus (both South and North Cyprus). You need not fear any financial losses from the German Pension Insurance, as international agreements regulate this. You benefit from attractive tax advantages, especially in South Cyprus, where a 5% flat tax rate on pensions above €3,420 and a high general tax-free threshold of €19,500 can lead to significant tax savings. This results in a significantly lower tax burden than in Germany. Consequently, your pension in Cyprus has greater purchasing power, particularly in North Cyprus, where living costs are considerably lower than in Germany. Another advantage is that Cyprus levies neither a wealth tax nor an inheritance tax, offering additional financial relief and planning freedom for your assets and their transfer.

You have access to good medical care, even with EU standards in South Cyprus, and costs are often more moderate than in Germany. Enjoy a mild climate with many sunny days, a relaxed lifestyle, high safety, and a growing German-speaking community. The Mediterranean flair ensures a positive outlook on life. Strategically combine the advantages of affordable living in the North with the amenities of the EU South, including easy border crossing. This provides you with unparalleled flexibility.

Before taking the final step, however, an extensive trial living stay with LongStay Cyprus is the best investment. It allows you to get to know the island authentically and make an informed decision for a carefree and fulfilling retirement in a Mediterranean paradise. Your pension abroad can truly be a foundation for joy and adventure.

Are you ready for your retirement in sunny Cyprus?

Contact LongStay Cyprus today for a non-binding consultation. We will help you plan your perfect long-term stay in Cyprus – personal, safe, and tailor-made. Discover for yourself how your pension abroad becomes a key to a happy and carefree life under the sun.


Click here and request your non-binding quote now >>>