Fresh Off the Plane – Your Weekly Expat Briefing
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Καλησπέρα… Good afternoon from Paphos, Cyprus
I hope you had a fantastic weekend. Here’s your Monday briefing to start the week informed of whats going on in the expatriate world. Have a great week!
All the best,
ProACT Sam
Around The World
UK
The UK ranked among worst countries for expats in 2025
According to the Expat Insider survey, the UK came in 41st out of 46 countries for quality of life for expats. Main issues cited include high cost of living, housing difficulties, and expensive medical care.
Warning about scams targeting prospective expats
British citizens planning to move overseas are being cautioned about sophisticated scams involving fake jobs, visas, and travel/insurance offers. These kinds of frauds seem to be rising, especially among new expats who might not yet have local support networks.
Cyprus
New “Brain Gain” platform draws interest from Cypriots abroad
The “Minds in Cyprus” initiative aims to attract skilled professionals living overseas back to Cyprus. Within two weeks of its launch, it had over 300 registrations from Cypriots in 23 different countries. The platform offers job listings, relocation guidance, and info on housing, education, healthcare, etc.
EU to establish a regional firefighting hub in Cyprus
In response to increasing wildfire risk due to climate change, the European Commission announced plans for a regional firefighting hub located in Cyprus. Its role would not only support Cyprus but also nearby Middle Eastern countries.
Italy
Italy to issue nearly 500,000 non-EU work visas over the next three years
The Italian government has announced plans to issue about 497,550 work permits to non-EU nationals between 2026 and 2028, with 164,850 permits scheduled just for 2026.
This is part of Italy’s strategy to address labour shortages and demographic decline (the population dropped by ~37,000 in 2024).
For expats, this means expanding legal pathways for non-EU nationals wanting to work in Italy, which could make relocation somewhat easier for skilled workers in sectors needing labour.
Spain
Spain among top EU countries for expatriates, despite ranking drops
In the 2025 InterNations Expat Insider survey, Spain managed to place 9th overall out of 46 destination countries, the only country in Europe to make the top 10 with other popular destinations such as France, Portugal & Germany slipping in the rankings.
Spain scored particularly well for quality of life (including climate, culture, lifestyle, recreation).
This suggests that despite some of the bureaucratic or financial challenges, many expats still prefer Spain because it delivers in the everyday experience.
Thailand
Rising Interest in Long-Term Health Insurance Among Retired Expats
In Thailand, more retirees are opting for long-term health insurance rather than shorter plans or minimal coverage. With healthcare costs rising, plus stricter visa/health requirements, expats are increasingly seeing long-term insurance as essential rather than optional.
Cost of Living & Best Expat Havens in Thailand’s Provinces
A recent guide mapped out five Thai provinces popular among expats, comparing rent, food, transport, and other “day-to-day” costs. For many, places outside Bangkok are still much more affordable, and expats choosing quieter areas (islands, smaller cities) can get a lot more value for their money - especially if they adjust expectations around transport and amenities.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
UAE Ranked Among Top Places Globally for Expats
In the latest Expat Insider / InterNations survey, the UAE scored especially high for “expatriate essentials” (housing, digital infrastructure, admin services), safety, and quality of life. Many expats cite job opportunities, modern amenities, and strong services as reasons for staying long-term.
Top Areas for Expats Buying Their First Home in 2025
Property insights show several UAE neighbourhoods are proving particularly popular with expats looking to purchase rather than rent. Some of the top picks, balancing price, amenities, and growth, include Al Hamra Village (Ras Al Khaimah), Emirates City (Ajman), Al Reem Island (Abu Dhabi), and a few Dubai communities like JLT, Jumeirah Village Circle, Business Bay among others. These areas offer a mix of affordability, investment potential, and lifestyle value.
Insight from the ProACT Cyprus Office
We’re seeing more expats combining Cyprus residency with corporate structuring to reduce global tax exposure. The appeal isn’t just the 12.5% corporate rate… it’s how profits, dividends, and pension income can be sequenced. With the right residency timing, directors can draw income at 0–5% personal tax while preserving company growth. The key isn’t just “setting up a Cyprus company,” but mapping cash flow, residency days, and cross-border rules into one coordinated plan.
For help and guidance you can contact us or book a free review.
Latest from the ProACT Blog
Deadlines
Expatriates in Cyprus must be aware that the deadline for their 2024 final tax return is only a couple of weeks away. Ensure you submit your returns now to avoid fines & penalties.
30 September 2025
Final 2024 Cyprus Tax Returns for Individuals
31 December 2025
2nd & final instalment of 2025 Provisional Tax
Payment for Special Contribution for Defence for last 6 months of 2025
31 January 2026
2024/25 UK Tax Return Deadline
Learn more about our Tax Return Service for expatriates
Need help & guidance?
For help & guidance contact us or book a free review with one of our expat experts.
