Table of Contents
Formal or Informal
German Sie/Du dilemma doesn't really exist. Cyprus rule: informal unless obviously formal needed. After 5 minutes: you're on Du. That's Cypriot warmth, not disrespect.
The Rules
Formal: police, authorities, much older strangers, first business meeting. Informal: neighbors (immediately), café, playground, Stammtisch, tradespeople. Switch happens mid-conversation – that's normal.
The section on "Formal or Informal" was the most valuable for us. We couldn't find this information anywhere else before our move. It saved us a lot of time and hassle.
– Couple from Cologne, in Nicosia since 2024
Other Polite Forms
Greeting: handshake first time, cheek kisses when familiar. "Herr/Frau" + FIRST name (not surname!). Business cards: present with both hands. Punctuality: 10-15 min tolerance business. Private: 15-30 min "late" is perfect.
Polite Forms in Cyprus
Topics: Formal or Informal, The Rules, Other Polite Forms
CMC Practical Tip
Informal: neighbors (immediately), café, playground, Stammtisch, tradespeople.
Frequently Asked Questions
No – opposite. Informality means warmth and acceptance.
No – use "Yassou" (informal). Formal would seem distant. Exception: very elderly (80+) first time.
First contact: more formal. After first coffee: usually informal already. Much quicker than Germany.
Right first, then left. Twice (not three times). Between men: only close friends/family.
How CMC Supports You
At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.
As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.