In today's world, many families with children are thinking about changing their place of residence. The decision to move to another country is connected with the desire to provide their children with a comfortable and safe environment for development, to expand their opportunities for personal and professional growth in the future. The best countries for a comfortable life with children are characterised by such factors as high quality of life and level of education, favourable financial conditions.
The top countries for a comfortable life in 2025 include Madeira and Cyprus. These are two popular destinations for relocation, attracting attention due to the developed infrastructure and attractive tax conditions. The choice between these regions depends on many factors, among which the quality of education and tax advantages for families are important.
In this publication we will try to understand which is a better option for relocation: Madeira or Cyprus for a family with children (comparison of schools and taxes).
Madeira or Cyprus for moving a family with children: general characteristics of the jurisdictions
is a self-governing region of Portugal, attracting not only tourists but also permanent residents, families with children. One of the main advantages of Madeira is its high level of security. The low crime rate, Portugal's stable legal system and respect for human rights create a safe environment in which to live and raise children.
Moving to Madeira for families with children will provide a wide choice of high quality educational institutions - public and public schools with European programmes. Numerous international schools are geared towards high standards of education, making adaptation easier. In addition, Portugal is known for its favourable tax policy for residents and entrepreneurs. There are special tax relief and incentive programmes aimed at attracting foreign investors and new residents. This includes tax regimes for pensioners, investment programmes with minimum rates.
is an island country in the Eastern Mediterranean, combining European standards of living with a unique history and culture. Due to its favourable location, developed economy and favourable tax legislation, Cyprus has become a favourite place to live for many foreigners, including families with children.
As a member of the European Union, Cyprus guarantees a high level of social protection. Moving to Cyprus for families with children is an optimal option for foreigners wishing to maintain the European quality of life in a warmer climate. The medical system meets international standards. There are both public and international schools in Cyprus, where education is conducted in English and other European languages. This greatly simplifies the integration of foreign families and gives children the opportunity to receive a quality education, allowing them to continue their studies in prestigious European universities. In addition, Cyprus attracts foreign residents due to its favourable tax regime. There are fiscal incentives for individuals and programmes to attract highly qualified professionals.
Which country is easier to obtain a residence permit
The question of choosing a country where it is easier to obtain a residence permit is a topical issue for many families, especially those who plan to move with children. Let's start with Madeira. This Portuguese region attracts relatively affordable conditions for obtaining a residence permit. The legislation provides several ways to obtain a residence permit, including through investment, opening a business, registration of resident status on the basis of certain circumstances, for example, the presence of relatives, participation in programmes for digital nomads.
One of the most popular schemes for foreigners wishing to obtain a residence permit in Madeira is the ‘Golden Visa’, a regime that allows you to obtain a residence permit if a number of conditions are met. For families, it is advantageous in that together with the main applicant can apply for a residence permit his spouse and children, including minors and even students under 26 years (who are dependent). An important plus is that children living in Madeira with a residence permit are entitled to attend public schools and benefit from free education. This significantly reduces family expenses and facilitates adaptation.
The process of applying for a residence permit in Madeira usually takes several months, but it is quite transparent and standardised. As Portugal is part of the European Union and Schengen area, a residence permit provides freedom of movement in Europe, as well as the right to citizenship after 10 years of legal residence. For families, this means stability and prospects for children in the future. There is also a high level of medical care in Madeira, which is especially important for families with young children. Clinics are equipped with modern equipment, and medical services for residents are much cheaper than for tourists. However, for families with children, it is important that the paperwork requires the collection of quite a large package of certificates and confirmations, including children's birth certificates, notarised translations and other papers, which can complicate the process if not handled by experienced lawyers.
The residence permit in Madeira is open to financially independent applicants who can prove a regular income from foreign sources. This residence permit is intended for third-country nationals who do not require local social support and are able to maintain a residence without employment in the territory. The minimum level of income to qualify for the programme is 870 euros/month, the amount corresponding to the current minimum wage in Portugal. Financial solvency can be confirmed in various ways: income from remote work, dividends, interest on deposits, or funds in bank accounts.
The second popular option is to obtain a residence permit in Madeira through business investment. This way is suitable for entrepreneurs and investors who are ready not only to invest, but also to contribute to the economy of the region. The main requirements: investment of 500 000 euros in the share capital of the company or the creation of at least 10 jobs for local residents. This form of participation favours involvement in the local business environment. Madeira offers a favourable business environment, especially in the fields of technology, tourism and sustainable development.
There are several residence permit options in Cyprus, including the Investor Residence Permit (IRP) category, where the applicant can apply for residence upon purchase of a property for an amount of EUR 300,000 or more (excluding VAT) and proof of financial solvency. A residence permit in Cyprus requires less investment and has fewer restrictions on the place of purchase, making it easier to choose a home. As in Portugal, Cyprus has a rule that the residence permit is issued not only to the main applicant, but also to his spouse and children up to 18 years old (and sometimes up to 25 years old if the children are students). This makes it much easier for the whole family to relocate and integrate into Cypriot society.
In addition, there are opportunities to obtain a residence permit in Cyprus through starting a business or employment, which may also be suitable for couples with children. For children living under a residence permit, there are public educational institutions with instruction in Greek, private and international educational institutions with instruction in English, French, German and other languages. Medical care is of a high standard, including compulsory insurance and private clinics for foreigners.
The process of applying for a residence permit in Cyprus, including for families with children, usually takes up to 2-3 months. The main thing is to properly prepare a package of documents, including proof of ownership of real estate, income certificates, absence of criminal record and medical certificates. It is worth noting that Cyprus offers a more flexible tax system for residents, which allows families with children to optimise their financial expenses. Low income taxes, no inheritance tax and favourable conditions for pensioners make Cyprus attractive for those who plan a long-term residence with the possibility of obtaining citizenship. The naturalisation process in Cyprus takes longer - usually around 7 years of permanent residence, which should be taken into account when choosing a country.
Moving to Europe for permanent residence is associated with bureaucratic formalities. There are differences in terms of legal procedure and bureaucracy, which affects the overall financial burden. In Cyprus, however, there are faster application processing times and fewer additional regulations. In Madeira, the procedure may require additional time to collect evidence, especially in case of complex family situations, minor children with special needs.
In the context of integration, it is worth noting that Portuguese is widely spoken in Madeira, which can be a barrier for families who do not speak it. English is widely spoken in Cyprus, especially in education and business, which facilitates the adaptation of foreign families.
When considering the prospects of citizenship for families with children, the Cypriot programme provides a quicker route - citizenship can be obtained after 7 years of legal residence. This opens up many opportunities for children, including the right to study at the best universities in Europe, the ability to work and to travel freely within the EU. In Madeira, citizenship is only available after 10 years of residence, which requires longer adaptation and planning.
Although both jurisdictions are among the top inexpensive countries to live comfortably, the cost of living is on average higher in Cyprus, especially in tourist and metropolitan areas such as Nicosia, Limassol or Paphos. In Madera, prices are more moderate, which can be a decisive factor for families with children, given the additional costs of education, medical services and housing. However, it is possible to find accommodation and services in both regions to suit different budgets if you choose your accommodation wisely.
Contact our experts and get answers to your questions.
Madeira vs Cyprus for families with children: school comparison
Choosing a country for families to emigrate to is a crucial decision, especially when it comes to the quality of education for children. Below we will compare schools in Madeira and Cyprus based on the criteria that parents are concerned about: quality of education, language environment, variety of study programmes, accessibility, cost and opportunities to integrate their children into a new cultural environment.
The education system in Madeira is fully integrated into the Portuguese system. Education is compulsory from the age of 6 to 18, and comprises three main levels: primary (grade 1-4), basic (grade 5-9) and secondary (grade 10-12). Public schools are free, accessible to all residents and offer education predominantly in Portuguese.
In addition to public schools, Madeira has a number of private and international schools offering education in English, French and other languages. Particularly popular with expats are international schools with a British or American curriculum, and schools with bilingual education (Portuguese and English).
The Cypriot education system is divided into public, private and international. Compulsory education lasts for 11 years and is divided into primary (grades 1-6) and secondary (grades 7-11). State-run schools teach in Greek, which can create a language barrier for children of foreigners.
Immigration to Cyprus for families with children is attractive due to the presence in this jurisdiction of a significant number of private and international schools with programmes in English. Cyprus is renowned for its well-developed network of international schools operating under the British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes. Many schools offer additional language courses, sports and creative clubs, which contributes to the all-round development of a child.
Language environment and study programmes
If immigration to the island of Madeira for families with children is of interest, a national study programme is offered, which is oriented towards common European standards. International schools offer British (GCSE, A-levels) or American (High School Diploma, Advanced Placement) programmes, ensuring that children can continue their education at universities around the world.
In Cyprus, state schools follow a national curriculum focused on Greek culture and language. International schools provide a variety of educational programmes: British GCSE/A-levels, the American system and the IB programme. The International Baccalaureate is particularly valued for its high standard of study and recognition in many universities around the world.
Tuition fees and associated costs
When choosing Madeira or Cyprus to immigrate a family with children, one of the key factors is the availability and cost of educational services. Both jurisdictions offer free public education, which is particularly important for families looking to optimise costs and provide their children with a basic education without a significant financial burden. However, when choosing between these countries, it is advisable to consider the quality of teaching, language environment, and prospects for further education.
For families interested in a higher level of education or who want their children to study in English or on international educational programmes (e.g. Cambridge, IB, American Curriculum), the focus inevitably shifts to private and international schools. Tuition costs can vary considerably from region to region and from institution to institution. Therefore, comparing the cost, accessibility and rankings of public schools in Madeira and Cyprus becomes relevant when strategically planning a move and long-term family settlement.
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After leaving school, for many parents the next step is important - going to university. Madeira offers affordable and quality universities. A year of study at a public university costs on average between 1,000 and 3,000 euros. Foreign school leavers within Portugal enter on the same rights as citizens. Cyprus also has its own universities, including English-speaking ones. However, university fees are between €6,000 and €12,000 per year, making it less price competitive.
Comparing taxes in Madeira and Cyprus for families with children
When we are asked how to choose a country to move to for families with children, in addition to the quality of life and the level of development of social services, we emphasise fiscal regulation. Taxes have a direct impact on the standard of living and financial stability.
In terms of tax legislation, Madeira and Cyprus offer low income tax rates for certain categories of taxpayers, tax residency schemes, special regimes supporting foreigners who decide to relocate.
Taxation in Madeira for foreigners
Portuguese tax residents pay taxes on income from all over the world - from salaries to investments abroad - on a progressive scale from 13 to 48 per cent. Non-residents, on the other hand, are taxed only on the income they earn in Portugal itself. There is a fixed rate of 25% - it applies to salaries, income from freelancing, pensions and other remuneration.
- spent more than 183 days in the country (consecutive or dispersed); or
- has a permanent home in Portugal and uses it as his or her principal place of residence, regardless of the number of days actually spent in the country.
Social contributions are split between the employee and their employer - 11% is paid by the employee and 23.75% by the employer. These funds are used to pay pensions, support families with children and unemployment assistance. The self-employed pay a flat rate of 21.4%. Families with children receive social benefits such as child allowances, child tax credits, free or partially free health care and education. Additional benefits may be provided to families with more than one child.
Relocation to Madeira for foreign families may be relevant if one of the family members is an R&D professional, which makes it possible to qualify for the special fiscal regime applicable to individuals if the following criteria are met:
- The person became a tax resident of the country according to the national tax legislation in a certain year.
- The applicant has not had tax residency in Portugal during the previous five years.
- The applicant is not and has not previously been a member of the NHR regime or the regime for former residents.
- The professional activity falls within the list approved by the regulations in force.
A reduced rate of 20% applies to net income from wage employment (category A) and from self-employed professional/entrepreneurial activities (category B), provided that such activities fall within the list of qualified professions established by law. There is also a full tax exemption for income from outside Portugal, including salaries, business or freelance income, rental income and capital gains. An exception is made for pension payments.
Taxation in Cyprus for foreigners
Cyprus also has a progressive scale from 0 to 35%. The rates are lower than in Madeira, which makes it interesting for foreign families with moderate incomes to move to Cyprus. From 1 January 2024, all employees and employers pay equal insurance contributions of 8.8% of salary. These rates will remain in force for five years, after which a phased increase will begin, to a maximum of 10.7% by 2039. For the self-employed, the contribution rate is increased to 16.6% of income. A gradual increase in the rate has also begun from 2024: it could reach 20.4% by 2039.
Cyprus offers a non-domicile status, allowing no tax on dividends and interest if residence in Cyprus does not exceed 60 days in each tax year. This is favourable for families living on investment income. The government also provides benefits for families with children, including monthly payments and fringe benefits at the birth of a child. Health insurance and education for children are available free of charge to residents.
Conclusion
Choosing a country for a comfortable life requires consideration of many key parameters - from economic stability and infrastructure to social guarantees and cultural environment. A holistic approach helps you make an informed choice that harmonises with your personal goals. When choosing between Madeira or Cyprus for a foreign family with children, it is important to compare your financial capabilities and the total costs of living in these countries (primarily taxes and educational expenses).
For families looking for a European level of education with access to Portuguese culture and willing to invest in language learning, Madeira is the right choice. It offers a comfortable life, quality education and tax incentives for qualified professionals. Cyprus will suit those looking for English or other international educational programmes, a loyal tax system and a variety of accommodation.
Do you want to move to Europe and apply for a residence permit not only for yourself but also for your family? Our experts are ready to help at every stage, taking into account all the nuances of immigration procedures in these countries.
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