Situated at the intersection of East and West, Cyprus has long fostered a reputation as a global trade and business center. Its forward-looking economy is also heavily investing in technological innovation and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), creating many promising opportunities for professionals in the country, both residents and prospective expatriates.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the ins and outs of hiring in Cyprus that will be helpful to both employees and employers in the country.
Overview of the Cyprus Economy
Cyprus is a vibrant hub for technological innovation and entrepreneurship. The country attracts diverse talent and offers exceptional opportunities, particularly in the tech and startup sectors.
One reason is Cyprus’ strategic geographic location. Smack in the middle of the Mediterranean, the country offers access to some of the world’s largest markets. Plus, it encapsulates a unique blend of a multicultural society, a favorable tax regime, and a supportive regulatory framework.
The small island nation has a population of under 1 million but a GDP of $54 billion, which places it 104th in the world.
Cyprus also has a robust startup ecosystem, comprised of innovative companies and supported by powerful government incentives for recruting ans hiring. In particular, it’s a popular destination for high-growth industries, such as mobile gaming, digital payment solutions, and cybersecurity.
What’s more, the country is investing heavily in STEM, especially to attract international talent to address its own shortfalls.
Cyprus Employment Laws and Visa Work Permits
In Cyprus, the Department of Labor within the Ministry of Labor, Welfare, and Social Insurance is the primary government entity responsible for overseeing employment law.
The country’s comprehensive employment laws govern everything from working hours to annual leave to employee rights and protections.
Generally, the standard working week is 40 hours with entitlements for overtime pay. Employees are also guaranteed a minimum of 20 days of paid leave per year (24 for those who work 6 days), which increases after 5 years of service.
Employees may also benefit from maternity and paternity leave, which includes benefits under the Social Insurance fund.
Cyprus Visas, Permits, and Application Process
There are some attractive work visas and permits available for those looking to live and work in Cyprus, particularly for non-EU citizens.
- Cyprus Work Permit. This permit is required for non-EU nationals to work in Cyprus. The employer must apply for this visa on behalf of the employee and demonstrate why the role cannot be filled by a local.
- Cyprus Work Visa. This is needed along with the work permit and allows the individual to enter Cyprus for employment purposes.
- Cyprus Residence Permit. Necessary for those planning to stay and work in Cyprus for longer than 90 days and is applied for after arriving in Cyprus.
While the exact steps may differ, depending on the company, role, and employee’s nationality, the typical application process is as follows.
Employer/company.
- Provide a formal job offer to the applicant.
- Apply for approval from the Cyprus Department of Labor.
- Use the recommendation letter from the Department of Labor to apply for a work permit at the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Employee Responsibilities.
- Provide documents, such as passport copies, criminal record certificates, and qualifications.
- After being granted the work permit, apply for the work visa at the nearest Cypriot embassy or consulate.
- Apply for a residence permit once within Cyprus.
Special Provisions for Attracting Highly-Qualified Workers
Cyprus also offers special routes to help local businesses attract highly qualified, non-EU workers, such as those in STEM fields. Again, the process may differ, but generally follows these steps:
- Eligibility and Salary Requirements. For example, executive directors must have a minimum monthly salary of €3,872, while key personnel have a threshold of €1,936.
- Application Process. The application for a residence and employment permit should be submitted to the Director of the Civil Registry and Migration Department. The company employing the worker needs to demonstrate the inability to fill the position locally and must include all relevant supporting documents.
- Permit Validity and Renewal. These permits are typically issued for up to two years and can be renewed. However, they tend to be more flexible for highly-skilled employees.
Typically, work permits are tied to specific employers. However, it is possible to change employment with a release paper or termination letter.
After 5 years of continuous and legal stay, permit holders may apply for a long-term residence permit. Or, an immigration permit for those who intend to work at a specific company of foreign interest or as self-employed in a profession or science.
However, they must have academic or professional qualifications, which are in demand in Cyprus.
Effective Channels For Recruitment in Cyprus
For new businesses in Cyprus, strategic recruitment is pivotal to attracting top talent. Here are some effective techniques Cypriot companies can leverage for greater success.
- Utilize Specialized Job Platforms. Leverage online platforms such as LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Indeed to post job listings targeting specific skills and backgrounds.
- Engage with Tech Community Spaces. Participate in forums and webinars within tech communities like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and online tech meetups online.
- Implement AI-driven Tools. Use advanced recruiting software solutions that incorporate AI to streamline the hiring process. Tools like applicant tracking systems (ATS) and AI-driven analytics can help in sorting, analyzing, and managing applicants more efficiently.
Recruitment and Hiring Law Essentials in Cyprus
Recruitment and hiring in Cyprus involve navigating several legal and cultural nuances that can pose challenges for new businesses.
For example, businesses must comply with the Termination of Employment Law (Law 24/1967), which stipulates conditions under which employees can be lawfully terminated. It also outlines the rights for notice and severance pay, depending on the length of employment. This law is essential for employers to understand to avoid wrongful termination lawsuits.
The Aliens and Immigration Law is equally important if businesses are looking to hire non-EU nationals. These regulations govern how to navigate visa and work permit applications, especially in aligning them with the specific qualifications and salary thresholds set by Cypriot immigration policies.
This includes ensuring that work permits are properly applied for through the Civil Registry and Migration Department and that all non-EU employees maintain valid residence permits.
Professional Services Supporting International Recruitment and Workforce Management
International recruitment is not especially complex in Cyprus, but professional assistance can facilitate smooth hiring processes. Even in the simplest cases, businesses need to be mindful of extra considerations regarding visa/permit application processes and immigration.
As a country that’s no stranger to foreign business relations, there are many avenues that companies can turn to for assistance and expertise:
- Recruitment Agencies. Specializing in sourcing global talent, they can assist with everything from job postings in specific markets to pre-screening candidates and arranging interviews. Not to mention ensuring that the talent matches the company’s needs and complies with local employment laws.
- Global Employment Organizations (GEOs). GEOs can act as the employer of record for businesses that do not have a local entity in the country where they wish to employ someone. This arrangement simplifies hiring as the GEO handles employment contracts, payroll, taxes, and compliance with local labor laws on behalf of the client company.
- Immigration and Legal Consultants. These professionals provide crucial assistance with navigating the visa and work permit processes. They ensure that all paperwork is correctly filed and that the applications meet the regulatory requirements to avoid delays or rejections.
- Payroll and HR Outsourcing Services. These services manage payroll, benefits, and other HR functions. This is particularly beneficial for companies that employ a small number of people in several different countries.
- Cultural Training Providers. To facilitate the integration of foreign workers, these service providers offer cultural orientation and training programs. These programs help new hires understand the local work culture, social norms, and business etiquette, which is essential for smooth interactions and operations.
You can find a video where we talk to a specialist in migration issues about a residence permit in Cyprus and get answers to some of the most frequently asked questions here.
Book a call with YouReg right now and get a free consultation regarding setting up your business in Cyprus today and don’t be afraid about double taxation!
