Working Legally in Cyprus
Expats need to obtain a work permit to work legally in Cyprus. This applies to all non-European Union (EU) nationals.
Who Must Make the Application?
The expat’s employer must make the application for a work permit. The employer is responsible for obtaining a confirmation of the work permit from the Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance, and for ensuring that the work permit is renewed annually
there are some exemptions for certain categories of expats, including:
- Citizens of EU member states
- family members of EU citizens who are not EU citizens themselves
- students who are studying in Cyprus and have a student visa
- business people who are visiting Cyprus for business purposes and have a business visa
Types of Work Permits for Expats in Cyprus
The types of work permits for expats in Cyprus are as follows:
- A-type permit: for expats who will be working for a period of up to one year
- B-type permit: for expats who will be working for a period of up to two years
- C-type permit: for expats who will be working for a period of up to five years
Info on eligibilit
Expats must meet certain eligibility criteria to be considered for a work permit in Cyprus, including:
- having a valid passport
- having a clean criminal record
- having a job offer from a Cypriot employer
- being able to provide proof of qualifications and experience relevant to the job they will be doing
Work Permit Application Process in Cyprus
The procedure for applying for a work permit in Cyprus is as follows:
The expat’s employer must submit a written request for a work permit to the Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance.
The Ministry will then conduct a labor market test to determine whether there are any suitable Cypriot or EU nationals who can fill the job.
If the Ministry determines that the job cannot be filled by a Cypriot or EU national, the employer will then be able to submit a formal application for a work permit.
The Ministry will then issue a confirmation of the work permit, which the employer must then present to the expat.
The expat must then present the confirmation of the work permit to the immigration authorities, who will then issue a work visa.
The entire process typically takes around four to six weeks.
Work Permit Documents in Cyprus
Non-EU nationals who want to work in Cyprus will need to obtain a work permit before they can start working. In general, you will need to provide the following documents when applying for a work permit in Cyprus:
- A completed work permit application form
- A valid passport or other travel document
- A copy of your employment contract or letter of offer from your employer
- A police clearance certificate or a criminal record check from your home country
- Educational qualifications (e.g., diploma, degree) relevant to your job
- Evidence of your work experience
- Proof of payment of fees
- Medical certificate from a recognized medical institution in Cyprus
Additional documents may be required depending on the type of work permit and the nature of the job.
What costs are involved in applying for a work permit in Cyprus?
The fees for a work permit in Cyprus can vary depending on the type of work permit you are applying for and the duration of the permit. As of 2022, the fees for a work permit in Cyprus are as follows:
- €100 for a Temporary Employment Permit
- €200 for a work permit valid for up to one year
- €500 for a work permit valid for more than one year
There may be additional fees for certain categories of work permits, such as those for domestic workers or self-employed individuals. These fees are subject to change, so it is always best to check with the relevant authorities before submitting your application.
Where can expats go for reliable information on working legally in Cyprus?
Expats looking for reliable information on working legally in Cyprus can visit the official website of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus. The website provides detailed information on the requirements and procedures for obtaining a work permit in Cyprus. The website also provides information on the types of work permits available, the fees and the necessary documentation.
Additionally, expats can also contact the Embassy of Cyprus in their home country for more information on working in Cyprus. Other helpful resources include the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation and the Cyprus Labour Department.
