Kindergartens In Cyprus: How They Work, How Much They Cost, And What Parents Need To Know

Moving to Cyprus with children is a joyful, yet also an exciting experience. After the euphoria of the beautiful sea and mild climate comes the inevitable need to choose a preschool for your child.

A lot of questions and endless options immediately appear: which kindergarten is better—private or public, which method to choose—Montessori, EYFS, or Reggio Emilia? And most importantly: in which language will your child be taught—in their native language, English, Greek, or all at once? In this article, we have gathered all the useful information about both private and public kindergartens in Cyprus. If you are still thinking about which kindergarten is best for your child, we hope our guide will help you.

Public or private? Key differences in 1 minute

Public kindergartens in Cyprus guarantee free preschool education for every child. However, their downside is that teaching is conducted only in Greek, and the educational program itself is more basic compared to private kindergartens.

Unlike a public kindergarten, where a universal approach is used for all children, the advantage of a private kindergarten is an individual approach to each child. Private preschools have a flexible schedule, as well as broader opportunities for early development and language learning—English, Russian, Greek, French. But the price in such institutions can be quite high, depending on the prestige of the school and the program.

Public kindergartens (Δημόσια νηπιαγωγεία): a complete guide

Who is entitled to a place in a public kindergarten?

According to Cypriot law, all children living in Cyprus, regardless of their nationality and migration status, as well as their parents’ status, have the right to preschool education in public kindergartens.

Age requirements

In Cyprus there is an official law on compulsory preschool education for children who have reached the age of 4–5 years. The typical age at which a child starts attending kindergarten in Cyprus is 4 years 8 months. In the near future, this minimum age threshold is planned to be reduced to 4 years.

In addition, younger children (3–4 years old) may also have the right to a place in a public kindergarten. But this will depend on certain conditions: availability of free places, the district of residence, and special circumstances.

Requirements regarding parents’ status

According to the official website of the Cypriot Ministry of Education, all children living in Cyprus on a temporary or permanent basis have the right to receive preschool education. At the same time, the nationality of the children and their parents does not matter. The main condition is the child’s residence in Cyprus, which can be proven by the address of your actual residence.

The “registration” rule: linked to the area of residence

Public kindergartens and schools in Cyprus are “linked” to a specific educational district. These zones are determined by the government, in particular by the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth. Belonging to a particular educational zone is determined by your postal code and residential address. Proof can include a rental contract, registration with the local municipality, or the address on utility bills. To find out which kindergartens belong to your educational zone, you need to go to the Ministry of Education website and enter your address (street and postal code). Priority for places is given first of all to families living in close proximity to the institution.

Enrollment process: step-by-step instructions

List of required documents:

1. Child’s birth certificate
2. Child’s passport or national ID (if the child is not a citizen of Cyprus)
3. Alien Registration Certificate (ARC), if your child is not an EU citizen
4. Proof of residential address (rental contract or property title, a recent utility bill in your name, municipal registration certificate (Municipal registration certificate)
5. Vaccination records
6. Medical certificate (if the child has developmental peculiarities)
7. Completed application form from the Cyprus Ministry of Education website.

Key dates: when to apply?

In 2026, the official application window will run from January 12 to 16 inclusive. This gives you the opportunity to choose a kindergarten you like. If you do not manage to submit documents during this period, you will be able to register at the institution closest to you where there are available places.

What is a “waiting list” and how does it work?

When enrolling in public kindergartens in Cyprus, priority is given to children who live in close proximity to the institution and meet the age criteria. Also, if a child has a brother or sister already enrolled in the kindergarten, they will have an advantage over other candidates.

If the free places in your chosen kindergarten have already been filled, you will receive an official notification about this. You have the right to apply to another institution where there are free places. In such cases, the Ministry of Education distributes children to other kindergartens in your district where places are still available. Therefore, in Cyprus there is no fixed “waiting list” as such—children are usually placed in other kindergartens within a short time.

Main fee: when and what do you have to pay for?

In Cyprus, public kindergartens provide free education for all children aged 4 years 8 months. And according to recent government reforms, starting from age three, children can receive public preschool education for a small monthly co-payment of 42 euros.

Additional fees (meals, insurance, stationery)

Materials for creativity—paints, markers, modeling clay, and other stationery. Usually, public kindergartens do not provide meals—the standard practice is lunch boxes prepared by parents. This has both pros and cons. For example, you can be sure about the quality of the food by offering your child healthy snacks and homemade food. But it will take more time to get your child ready for kindergarten.

If you are already registered in the state health system—GESY—your child automatically receives free medical insurance. Otherwise, you should take care of private medical insurance.

Also, you may need money for various excursions and celebrations.

Approximate monthly budget:

1. Food: 50–100 euros
2. Stationery: 10–20 euros
3. Excursions and celebrations: 30 euros
4. Medical needs (vaccinations, first-aid kit): about 20 euros per month.

In total, you should budget about 110–170 euros per month for additional expenses.

Learning process and attendance conditions

Language of instruction

All public kindergartens and schools in Cyprus use Greek as the main language in the learning process, as well as for communication with teachers and peers. Educators, as much as possible, provide language support to foreign children and help them integrate into learning and socialization. However, such support is very limited due to the large number of children in groups.

Curriculum: what is emphasized?

Public kindergartens emphasize the all-round development of children and preparing them for school. Children learn the Greek alphabet and master basic arithmetic, and also develop communication skills by participating in discussions.

Great attention is paid to physical development—sports, outdoor games, and creativity. Unlike many private kindergartens, in public ones Cypriot culture plays a central role—children study local legends, songs, and poems. This is an excellent opportunity for those who want their child to immerse in the local culture and mentality from an early age.

Working hours and holidays

Winter holidays usually run from December 24 to January 1. Spring holidays start in the week before Easter and usually last about 1–2 weeks. The exact dates depend on the date of Easter, which changes every year. Summer holidays start in mid-June and end in mid-September. In addition to holidays, public kindergartens and schools in Cyprus are closed on the following national holidays:

1. Epiphany (Baptism of the Lord) — January 6
2. “Green Monday” (Green Monday) — usually in February/March, 40 days before Easter
3. Greek Independence Day — March 25
4. Pentecost — 50 days after Easter
5. Cyprus Independence Day — October 1
6. Ohi Day — October 28

Community kindergartens

In Cyprus there are also so-called “community kindergartens.” They are organized by the local municipality along with parent and community organizations to address the shortage of places in public kindergartens. Their activities and educational program are also overseen by the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth. Education in community kindergartens is not free, like in public ones, but its cost is an order of magnitude lower than in private ones.

Private kindergartens (Ιδιωτικά νηπιαγωγεία): an overview of types

Russian-speaking kindergartens

Thanks to the large Russian community, Cyprus has a large number of Russian-speaking kindergartens. You can find both small groups with flexible schedules and preschool education centers attached to private schools. In general, these kindergartens use a mix of Russian, English, and Greek.

However, Russian-speaking kindergartens pay great attention not only to languages, but also to early education through games and projects. This is an excellent solution for those for whom it is important that their children communicate freely in Russian, while also being able to learn English and the basics of Greek. Most Russian-speaking kindergartens are located in Limassol and Paphos. There is also a Russian school at the embassy in Nicosia, as well as private Russian schools in Limassol and Paphos that operate in accordance with the Russian curriculum.

English-language kindergartens

In all cities of Cyprus you can find a number of English-language kindergartens, which are popular not only with Britons, but also with other expats and Cypriots. If you want your child to speak English from early childhood, it makes sense to send them to an English-language kindergarten. Educators in such kindergartens are native speakers, so full immersion in an English-speaking environment is possible. English kindergartens are a great fit for those who later plan to send their children to an English school.

Bilingual and international kindergartens

Cyprus has a wide selection of bilingual private kindergartens where education and communication take place in two languages at once. Mostly this is a combination of English and Greek, or English and Russian, which is ideal for mixed families where children already speak two languages at home, or for expat families who want their children to become bilingual.

In addition, there are a number of preschools and schools in Cyprus that, besides English, offer educational programs in other languages as well, such as French or Spanish. During the day, teachers switch the language of communication so that the child learns the language in a natural environment—during play or lessons. It is no secret that a foreign language is acquired much faster in childhood, so such private kindergartens are quite popular.

Kindergartens with specialized methods (Montessori, Waldorf)

Every year, the popularity of alternative preschool education methods in Cyprus grows. Montessori kindergartens are especially popular—they can be found in almost all cities on the island. Meanwhile, only a few kindergartens in Limassol and Paphos work with the Waldorf method.

If you want to develop independence, curiosity, and concentration in your child, the Montessori approach will suit you very well. If, on the other hand, children’s creativity and harmony with nature are important to you, the Waldorf method will be a good alternative. Cyprus also has Nova private kindergartens with a hybrid approach, combining the best features of both methods.

Private kindergarten fees by city in Cyprus

1. Limassol: 4.5–9 thousand euros per year
2. Nicosia: from 3,919 euros per year
3. Paphos: 2,850–4,275 euros per year
4. Larnaca: 2.5–4 thousand euros per year

Enrollment procedure and required documents

Flexible enrollment: when can you sign up?

Unlike public kindergartens, where enrollment is limited to a short window at the beginning of the year, private kindergartens in Cyprus offer more flexible time frames. Enrollment in most of them is possible from January to April. However, for kindergartens using the Waldorf and Montessori methods, it is better to enroll earlier—from January to February.

Typical document package:

1. A copy of the child’s birth certificate (with translation into English or Greek)
2. Child’s passport or ID
3. Alien registration certificate, if the child does not have Cypriot citizenship
4. Copies of both parents’ passports
5. Vaccination record
6. Medical certificate from a pediatrician’s check-up (in some kindergartens)
7. Medical insurance (private insurance or GESY). Some kindergartens include private insurance in the tuition fee
8. Proof of residential address (rental agreement, utility bills)
9. Completed application form
10. Proof of tuition payment/initial deposit
11. English proficiency questionnaire (for bilingual or English-language schools)

Programs: schedules and additional services

Compared to public institutions, private kindergartens offer a more individualized approach to learning. In most cases, each school develops its own program, which may follow one or a combination of several of the methodologies listed below:

1. British EYFS
2. Montessori
3. Waldorf
4. Reggio Emilia

Private kindergartens focus on early development, more in-depth subject learning, creative thinking, and artistic skills. Unlike public kindergartens, private kindergartens maintain closer contact with parents, providing detailed progress reports and holding regular meetings with teachers. Upbringing here is based not on dominance, but on finding an individual approach to each child. Another undeniable advantage of private preschool institutions is the opportunity to learn languages from an early age, since private kindergartens often offer instruction in several languages, including English, Russian, Greek, and sometimes French and even Spanish.

Schedule flexibility

Private kindergartens adapt to your schedule, offering different options: half-day (from 8:00 in the morning until lunch), full day, and extended care. At the same time, the fee for extra time can be hourly or a fixed monthly supplement.

Extra clubs and activities

Another advantage of a private kindergarten is the many extra clubs—music, theater, and dance, as well as drawing and sculpting. There are also various sports sections. Some private kindergartens even offer early STEM education, including robotics and programming clubs. Depending on the institution, the cost of such clubs can range from 150 to 500 euros per year.

Operation in summer and during holidays

Most private kindergartens follow public holidays and are usually closed on holiday dates. However, they often operate during school breaks and remain open even in the summer. Some change the learning format to themed leisure activities for children or summer camps.

A typical day in a Cypriot kindergarten: sample schedules

All kindergartens in Cyprus offer a balanced daily program consisting of play, educational activities, outdoor walks, and creativity. However, when it comes to private kindergartens in Cyprus, their program is more flexible and rich. It takes into account children’s individual needs, including lunch and a daytime nap. And parents have the opportunity to bring and pick up their child at a convenient time, which is one of the advantages of a private kindergarten. By contrast, in public kindergartens the schedule is more fixed, and children are mostly picked up around 12:00–12:30.

A typical day in a public kindergarten:

1. 7:45–8:15 — arrival, free play time
2. 8:15–8:30 — morning circle (songs, calendar, roll call)
3. 8:30–9:15 — learning activities (Greek language, math, themed blocks)
4. 9:15–9:30 — snack (usually from home)
5. 9:30–10:15 — walk, outdoor games
6. 10:15–11:00 — creative activities (drawing, music, crafts)
7. 11:00–11:30 — reading, discussion
8. 11:30–12:00 — preparation to leave

A typical day in a private kindergarten:

1. 7:30–9:00 — arrival, free play time
2. 9:00–9:30 — morning circle (songs, emotions, communication)
3. 9:30–10:30 — learning activities (languages, STEM, Montessori practices)
4. 10:30–11:00 — snack
5. 11:00–12:00 — walk
6. 12:00–13:00 — lunch
7. 13:00–15:00 — nap time or quiet activities
8. 15:00–16:00 — creative activities, clubs
9. 16:00–18:00 — free play time, getting ready to go home

How to choose the best kindergarten for your child: a step-by-step plan

Step 1: Check the license and accreditation

In Cyprus, the Ministry of Education accredits both public and private kindergartens. If you have already made your choice, simply check whether that particular kindergarten is listed in the official Ministry register.

Step 2: what to pay attention to during a visit?

All rooms should look clean, well-ventilated, without the typical “medical” chlorine smell. It also helps to check the flooring—are they too slippery? See whether the yard has a well-equipped and safe playground. Also, pay attention to clear zoning of premises—for example, the kitchen and dining area should be separated from play areas. It is also worth asking how often bedding is changed (if a daytime nap is provided) and how often toys are disinfected.

Pay attention to the staff—do they have the required diplomas and accreditation? Also consider the ratio of children to one teacher—the norm is no more than 8–12 children per educator. Ask how long the educators have been working in this particular kindergarten.

Observe the children’s behavior and condition. Do they look relaxed or tense? Look at the group dynamics and ask how often conflicts occur and how they are handled. Find out how educators communicate with children—a good sign is if they explain things and speak in a friendly, rather than authoritarian, tone.

Step 3: collect reviews and recommendations

Of course, the best way to get first-hand information is to get it from other parents whose children already attend a kindergarten. In Cyprus there are many different online forums and thematic communities on social media where you can find useful information about private kindergartens in Cyprus, ask for advice, read recommendations, or share your own experience.

Child adaptation: psychologist’s tips

Adapting to kindergarten is stressful even in your home country, let alone for a child who has found themselves not only in a new environment but also in a new country. In addition to ordinary childhood anxiety, there is culture shock and a language barrier. Kindergartens in Cyprus, especially public ones, tend to have a noisier and sometimes even chaotic atmosphere. Due to differences in mentality, adaptation in such kindergartens may take longer. In private kindergartens, where most children are also foreigners, adaptation can be smoother.

So that every trip to kindergarten does not turn into a real ordeal for you and your child, psychologists emphasize the importance of the emotional tone during separation. Crying does not necessarily mean the child is unhappy at kindergarten—it is simply a sign of “separation anxiety,” which usually passes within a few weeks.

Say goodbye briefly, calmly, and without excessive emotion. A calm, confident tone is far more important than long speeches. According to the world-famous early childhood specialist and founder of the RIE method, Magda Gerber:

Confidence in a child is born from parents’ confidence in themselves.

Avoid phrases like “stop crying” and “don’t be afraid”—this will only slow the adaptation process. Just say that you will be back soon, as soon as they finish their activities.

At first, you can try bringing your child for only half a day, gradually increasing the time in kindergarten. A predictable routine, as well as the support of one of the educators, will help the child feel safe sooner. Most children adapt within 4–8 weeks. If anxiety does not go away or intensifies after this period, it is better to seek help from a child psychologist.

Frequently asked questions

From what minimum age are children accepted?

At the moment, the minimum age for admission to a public kindergarten is over 4 years. However, if there are free places, younger children (3–4 years old) may also have the opportunity to be admitted to a public kindergarten. Meanwhile, private kindergartens offer more flexible conditions and often accept children starting from 2.5–3 years.

Can you enroll without a residence permit or Cypriot citizenship?

Yes, according to Cypriot law, any child living in Cyprus has the right to receive preschool education in public institutions. And although kindergartens usually ask for proof of residence status in Cyprus upon admission, its absence is not a mandatory ground for refusal.

Which vaccinations are required for kindergarten admission?

Vaccinations against the following diseases are included in the standard childhood vaccination schedule in Cyprus:

1. Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP / Td)
2. Polio
3. Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
4. Hepatitis B
5. Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
6. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
7. Meningococcal infection (serogroup C or ACWY)

Do kindergartens offer discounts for a second child?

Yes, many private kindergartens in Cyprus provide a discount of about 10% of the total tuition cost for the second and third child. Some institutions apply the discount automatically, while others should be informed in advance at the time of enrollment.

What if the child does not speak Greek/English?

In public kindergartens, language support for foreign children is quite limited—all lessons and communication take place exclusively in Greek. Private kindergartens are generally specifically adapted for foreigners and focus on early language learning. In such kindergartens, it will be much easier for a child to adapt. In addition, the island has many Russian-speaking kindergartens where your child can feel “at home” from day one. Therefore, if your child does not speak English or Greek, it makes sense to first enroll them in a private bilingual kindergarten, where they can learn the languages at a basic level and then adapt more easily in a public kindergarten.

How is food handled for children with allergies?

In most public kindergartens there is no organized catering, and children mostly bring lunch boxes from home. Therefore, you can control their menu yourself. But in case of serious allergic reactions, you should inform the school and educators just in case.

Since private kindergartens provide meals, they have special safety protocols: from filling out a special form at enrollment to individual menus. Usually private kindergartens send weekly menus to parents for approval.

Key takeaways and useful links

Choosing the right kindergarten for your child is a very important and responsible step. You need to weigh all the pros and cons—after all, people rightly say that a child’s early years are the foundation of their future. When choosing a preschool institution, you should take into account your child’s individual characteristics, the family budget, and your plans for the future. For example, if you plan to stay in Cyprus permanently and want your child to immerse in the local culture and mentality from the very beginning, a public kindergarten will help with that. If, on the contrary, you plan to send your child to study abroad and see their future in another country or in an international company, then it makes sense to choose a private English-language or bilingual kindergarten. The main point is that in Cyprus both options are open to you, and in the end the choice always remains yours.

You can learn more about public kindergartens in Cyprus here.

Registry where you can find information about public schools and kindergartens in Cyprus. The official list of accredited private supplementary education institutions.

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2. TOP-10 new developments in Paphos to be completed in 2026
3. TOP-10 new developments in the free areas of Famagusta to be completed in 2026
4. TOP-10 new developments in Limassol to be completed in 2026
5. 15 largest projects of 2025 in Cyprus