Greek is official in Cyprus, but English is widely spoken. Even basic Greek opens doors. Here is what is available in 2026: free state courses, private schools, and the key difference between Cypriot and standard Greek.
Free state Greek language courses
The Cypriot government offers free Greek language courses for legal residents through the Ministry of Education Adult Language Program. Classes run September to June, three times per week. Registration opens in September at local municipal offices. Levels available: beginner and intermediate.
Municipal and affordable courses
Several municipalities — including Limassol and Nicosia — offer group courses for €150–€350 per semester. Check with your local municipality office for the current schedule.
Private language schools
- Language and Communication Center (Limassol): from €300/semester
- PASCAL Language School: flexible scheduling, from €400/semester
- Individual tutors: €20–€40/hour — widely available through Expat Cyprus Facebook groups
Online resources
- Duolingo: covers Standard Modern Greek — useful for reading and formal communication
- Pimsleur Greek: excellent for pronunciation and spoken comprehension
- Greek for Expats Cyprus (Facebook group): regular language exchange meetups in Limassol and Nicosia
Cypriot dialect vs Standard Greek
Cypriots speak a distinct dialect that differs notably from Standard Modern Greek — even native Greeks from mainland Greece sometimes struggle to understand it. For official paperwork, commerce and formal settings, Standard Greek is used. Learning Standard Greek is perfectly sufficient for all practical purposes.
Practical milestones
- A1 (6 months): shops, restaurants, basic administrative tasks
- B1 (18–24 months): most daily situations without English support
- KPG certificate (offered by the Greek Ministry of Education): recognised across the EU