ExpatCyprus said:
I didn't like Malta's atmosphere in general (personal opinion ofc), and most of all they don't offer the "minimum 60 days" option to be a non-dom resident if I well remember. But I didn't investigate a lot since I didn't want to settle there anyway.
As far as I know, capital gains are not subject to any taxation for a non-dom in Cyprus, no limit. I am a much smaller fish than you so I didn't look into the 6 digits range, but I have never bumped into anything like a threshold when searching.
Well, personal experience: banks are SLOW. I managed to open with the Bank of Cyprus in 4 weeks after sending them every imaginable document. They are ok but if you end up classified as an "International Business" they will charge quite a lot. I switched to Revolut which became available again months ago and it's fine for my small transactions. I heard good things about Hellenic bank too.
It is, as a former British colony English is spoken everywhere from public offices to the kiosks selling their fruit and vegs
I was in Malta several times only as a tourist so I can't compare. I can tell you that Cyprus' cost of living changes dramatically depending on where you want to be, as I said. Renting or buying property in Limassol can be more expensive than in Milano, while the countryside can be cheaper than any small village in Sicily. Cars are more expensive but insurance and property tax are way cheaper than in Italy. Gas is much cheaper (Petrol <1,4 Euro now), but... you don't really need a fancy car unless you especially like it. It's fun to have a 4x4 cause you can drive anywhere no limits, and it's fun exploring.
Local food is super cheap and often "Km 0", imported goods are more expensive than back home.
Internet is very expensive both home and mobile but we are used to super cheap prices in Italy. I am doing good with my Italian SIM and the roaming because I am travelling back and forth all the time and my fiber at home is included in the rental.
Don't expect anything like "Amazon Prime" though, life runs slower... but personally I enjoy a much more relaxed lifestyle than in Moscow where I used to live. I see this as an advantage.
If you are going to make millions as you say, I wouldn't bother about the cost of living in either Malta or Cyprus honestly.
You pay 2,65% (GESY) on both dividends and salary. This lets you use the local health system which is not bad at all and rather inexpensive.
You pay social contributions (pension) on salary only, that's why I gave myself the lowest possible salary and use the dividends whenever I need cash. You can extract dividends at any time during the year.
I found a good tax advisor too, they are an average-sized firm of approx 20 people, very competent and always available to help. Nice people I must say. But again my needs are quite basic, nothing fancy or problematic.
Click to expand...