How to find a job in Cyprus: opportunities and features of employment for foreigners

Job search in Cyprus: Overview of opportunities

In the modern world, the process of job searching in Cyprus or finding employment opportunities has become less complicated. With the advent of modern technologies, such as the internet and specialized job applications like Glassdoor, this process has been significantly simplified. However, for foreigners, working in Cyprus can present certain challenges and obstacles. The majority of the local population is employed in the tourism sector, which creates specific difficulties for those looking to find work in this country. What professions are in the highest demand among foreign applicants on this wonderful island? In our detailed overview, we will discuss the specifics of employment in Cyprus, the requirements for candidates, the best cities for job searching, popular vacancies, and salary levels.

The attractiveness of the labor market in Cyprus

There is a high demand for specialists in the following fields in Cyprus:

• Marketing
• Target audiences
• Administrators of hotel and travel company websites
• Employees of SPA salons

There are facts indicating a shortage of skilled workers, which makes the labor market particularly attractive for foreigners, even those with minimal knowledge in IT. The conditions that make employment in Cyprus appealing include a number of factors:

• Tax advantages:The first €19,500 of income is tax-exempt (tax rate - 0%).
• Language accessibility:Knowledge of the Greek language is not essential; proficiency in English and Russian is sufficient for various professions.
• Comfortable climate:The warm climate of Cyprus offers the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities for most of the year.
• Business opportunities:Starting a business in Cyprus can be profitable, especially for multinational companies with a corporate tax rate of 15%.

Features of the labor sector in Cyprus

According to data from the Cyprus Statistical Service, the unemployment rate at the end of 2023 is 5.9%. This figure is quite high, but it is gradually decreasing in the context of post-pandemic recovery. Government structures in Southern Cyprus provide opportunities for foreigners to obtain official employment, with a preference given to citizens of the country and EU states. If you have a high level of qualification, employers are willing to go through the necessary procedures to obtain work permits for you.

In Cyprus, there is a division of job vacancies by gender, but these boundaries are gradually fading. European Union regulations ensure equal employment rights regardless of gender. Traditionally, vacancies for nannies and housekeepers are mostly filled by women, while men are more often employed as sailors and drivers. However, tour guides, programmers, skilled waiters, and educators can be either men or women.

Where to look for a job in Cyprus

You have the option to search for job vacancies both independently and with the help of agencies. Both methods can include online resources and traditional methods for exploring available positions, as well as employers' requirements regarding education and citizenship.

One of the main focuses should be on job vacancies that are published directly by employers. For this, you can use websites that feature current job offers in English and Greek.

The official website of the Cyprus Public Employment Service provides an opportunity to get an overview of the labor market and understand the average salary levels for different professions in the country. To access job vacancy information, you will need to register. After registration, you can create and update your resume as needed. This resource is available in English and Greek.

Recruitment agencies in Cyprus also play an important role in the job search, offering a wide range of staffing services. Thus, finding a job in Cyprus can turn into an easy pastime or become a serious challenge, depending on your skills and level of preparation.

Conclusion

Job opportunities in Cyprus are becoming increasingly accessible for job seekers, giving you a chance to find your place on this amazing island while enjoying its atmosphere and culture. So don't miss the moment and start your job search as soon as possible to take advantage of all the benefits that the Cypriot labor market has to offer.

Information about salaries in Cyprus

Job search agencies in Cyprus can quickly provide information about salaries and identify regions with high demand for your desired positions. Usually, there is a fee for such information. It's better to choose agencies that only require payment after successful employment, rather than at the beginning of the collaboration. Signing a service contract helps protect your interests.

Internships for international students

As for internships in Cyprus, the rules for foreign students have changed in recent years. Now, students from other countries can undertake internships in Cyprus and, in some cases, receive compensation for their work. Citizens of third countries must meet several conditions:

• First, it will be necessary to obtain a residence permit for the internship (the so-called "pink visa") if the duration of the internship exceeds three months.
• This document is issued for a period of up to one year with the possibility of a single extension in special cases related to professional activities.

To obtain a visa, you need to submit an application using form MVIS3 to the immigration service of the city within a week of arrival. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the immigration service of Cyprus. A signed internship agreement, which must be approved by the relevant authority in Cyprus, is also required, as well as proof of sufficient financial means to cover living expenses, the internship, and possible repatriation. Participation in a student exchange program and having a bank guarantee for repatriation are also mandatory. Studying labor legislation for international students will help better understand this process.

Employment conditions in Cyprus

If you are interested in an internship in Cyprus, you can obtain the necessary information by using specialized platforms and websites that offer volunteer programs.

There is a constant demand for skilled professions in Cyprus, especially in tourism, which is a popular sector. There are great employment opportunities for candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge. Other in-demand professions in Cyprus include:

• financiers;
• banking sector employees;
• human resources managers;
• highly qualified lawyers, accountants, and auditors;
• healthcare specialists;
• specialists in information technology;
• instructors with knowledge of several languages;
• engineers, architects, and designers;
• narrowly specialized workers, such as locksmiths, welders, electricians;
• sales managers, real estate agents, dealers;
• nannies, social workers, animators, and coaches;
• guides, security guards, waitresses, and maids.

High-paying professions

The highest salaries in Cyprus are earned by IT specialists, banking sector employees, senior executives, and top managers. Recommendations from previous workplaces, media publications about you, and educational diplomas can contribute to successful employment. Specific sources report the launch of the "Golden Knowledge" program in Cyprus to attract qualified specialists.

Minimum wage and gender inequality

As for the salary, starting from January 1, 2024, the minimum wage has increased to1000 eurosper month before taxes. This data was presented in an official publication and on the Department of Labor's website. The average salary of men, as practice shows, tends to be higher than that of women in similar positions, which may be explained by the fact that women are more often engaged in household duties and work part-time.

Analysis of salary trends

The Statistical Service of Cyprus has published data on wages for the years 2021-2022. According to official information, in 2022, women's salaries exceeded men's incomes only in areas such as agriculture and water supply.6%and2%Accordingly. There is a difference in salaries of up to10%in favor of men. In the fields of healthcare, finance, insurance, real estate, entertainment, and the arts, men also earn significantly more – the difference is about1.5 timesThe biggest difference is observed in the field of education: men receive more than70%more.

Changes in income by industry

Comparing to 2021, incomes have increased in all sectors of the economy. There have been slight changes (up to3%) occurred only in areas such as agriculture, water supply, healthcare, education, and public administration. In the hotel and restaurant industry in 2022, both men and women earned significantly higher incomes: on28%and41%Accordingly, men's salaries in IT have increased by17%, and for women – on14%.

The lowest wage levels are recorded in agriculture, where they average no more than100 eurosThe highest rewards are offered in the sectors of finance, insurance, information technology, and energy, where incomes range from3000to5000 eurosper month.

Growth of women's salaries

Recently, there has been a significant increase in women's salaries across various sectors of the economy, which is particularly noticeable compared to the previous year. If we analyze the average monthly gross incomes, we can see that there have been substantial shifts in the labor market. Let's take a closer look at how salaries have changed in different sectors.

Agricultural sector

In the agricultural sector, which includes agriculture, hunting, and forestry, the average income in 2022 was 906 euros, which is 0.2% higher than in 2021. In industry, the figures are even more striking — the average earnings for men reached 1780 euros, while women earned 1369 euros, showing an increase of 2.2% and 4.7% respectively.

Electricity sector

If we look at the sector related to the supply of electricity, gas, and air conditioning systems, we can see that the average income for men here is 3097 euros, while women earn 1828 euros, which also shows an increase of 3.9% and 4.7%. In the field of water supply, sewage, and waste management, men earn 1899 euros, and women earn 1890 euros, which corresponds to an increase of 1.1% and 3.8%.

Trade and services

In trade, whether retail or wholesale, as well as in the automotive repair service industry, the average income is 1713 euros for men and 1307 euros for women. The growth in these sectors is 4.3% and 7.7%. In the transportation sector, men earn 2572 euros, while women earn 1981 euros, which corresponds to 3.6% and 8.9% compared to the previous year.

Hotel and restaurant business

In the hotel and restaurant industry, the growth is much more noticeable — average incomes increased by 28.0% for men and an impressive 41.7% for women.

Information technology

In the field of information technology, men earn an average of 3210 euros, while women receive 2420 euros, which corresponds to an increase of 17.4% and 13.8%. In the financial and insurance sector, the average income is 4422 euros for men and 3060 euros for women, confirming an increase of 49.7% and 8.3%.

Real estate market

The results for the real estate market are equally interesting, where the average salary for men is 2,174 euros, while for women it is 1,457 euros, with an increase of 58.6% and 10.2% respectively.

Scientific and technical professions

In the field of professional, scientific, and technical activities, the average income for men is 2952 euros, while for women it is 2099 euros, with increases of 25.6% and 6.3%, respectively.

Public administration and education

In public administration, the growth was 4.0% for men and 6.9% for women. A steady increase is also observed in the education sector: here, the average incomes are 2849 euros for men and 1666 euros for women, corresponding to growth rates of 2.6% and 4.2%, respectively.

Healthcare and social security

In the field of healthcare and social work, the average income is 2436 euros for men and 1562 euros for women, with an increase of 2.3% and 4.2% respectively.

Creative industries

In creative industries such as art and entertainment, the average income is 2120 euros for men and 1317 euros for women, with an increase of 11.6% and 10.6% respectively.

Other service sectors

In various other service sectors, the average income for men is 1831 euros, while for women it is 1266 euros, showing an increase of 4.1% and 8.5% respectively.

The tax system of Cyprus

Now we should turn to Cyprus's tax policy: income taxes are determined based on the level of income.

Accelerated citizenship acquisition in Cyprus

Cyprus is planning to significantly speed up the process of obtaining citizenship for qualified foreign specialists, as well as ensure the provision of health insurance and other necessary documents in accordance with current regulations. For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to contact state migration services, inquire at embassies and consulates, or consult a lawyer who can be a reliable assistant in processing all the required documents.

Work visas and immigration permits

In Cyprus, work visas, often referred to as immigration permits, pertain to various types of activities and depend on whether a person intends to work for themselves or for an employer. A straightforward option for obtaining a visa is category E, which is intended for those who are employed under a contract with an employer.

Visa categories

The main categories of visas in Cyprus include:

• Category A:For people who want to engage in agriculture, livestock farming, poultry farming, or fishing. It is essential to have land or permission to purchase it.
• Category B:For candidates working in the mining sector, with a required capital of around 350,000 euros and a license.
• Category C:For self-employed individuals working in trade and other sectors. They must have a license and a minimum capital of 260,000 euros.
• Category D:For specialists in the field of science who possess the necessary qualifications and financial resources.
• Category E:For individuals with a job offer from a Cypriot employer, who should not compete with local specialists.
• Category F:For those who do not plan to work but have an annual income of at least 9,568 euros, plus funds for each dependent.

Visa for digital nomads

In recent years, a new category of visas has emerged in Cyprus — the visa for digital nomads. This new direction implies that a worker will become a tax resident of the island if they stay here for more than six months within a calendar year. Since taxes are set as a percentage, the government's desire to attract high-paying professions in the internet sector is justified. This approach benefits both the country itself and the specialists who will be able to enjoy the wonderful climate.

Conditions for obtaining a digital nomad visa

If you work for a foreign employer or are self-employed and offer services to foreign clients through various means of communication, you may be eligible for a digital nomad visa if:

• You are a citizen of third countries.
• Do you have confirmation of a monthly income of at least 3,500 euros after all taxes have been paid?

Language and professional requirements

As for the main conditions for applicants, job vacancies published in Greek, English, and sometimes Russian usually have specific requirements for candidates. Gender discrimination is not the norm; however, some companies may have a fixed percentage of men and women. Research shows that the best results are achieved in mixed teams where gender representation is balanced. Nevertheless, to avoid obvious biases, candidates of a certain gender may be considered a priority.

Language skills

Considering that Greek is spoken in Cyprus, knowledge of the language is essential for working in government institutions and interacting with locals, especially outside of cities. In private companies, however, the requirements may vary depending on the field of activity and the language used by the employer. For example, if you are applying for a position as an administrator in a German hotel chain, a lack of knowledge of the German language may pose a challenge in securing the position.

Confirmation of education

Among other requirements, you will need to validate your educational diploma, as the training programs and number of hours may vary. You may also need to take additional courses to meet Cypriot standards. Choosing a university in Cyprus is possible, but final certification may require passing state exams to confirm your qualifications in fields such as medicine, education, or architecture.

The procedure for certification and nostrification of diplomas

If there is no special program in Cyprus, testing takes place in Greece. For those who plan to continue their education or whose profession does not require a license, such as in the case of medical specialists, taking exams is not mandatory. To obtain a certificate, one must submit an application to the specialized body that is subordinate to the Ministry of Education and Culture of Cyprus, known as κυ.σ.α.τ.σ (ki.s.a.t.s).

If the diploma is confirmed, the corresponding specialization is indicated. The nostrification procedure requires a minimum set of documents:

• a copy of the diploma with an apostille and its attachment,
• the diploma itself with the appendix,
• The university curriculum, which lists the subjects and the hours dedicated to their study (sometimes broken down into lectures and practical classes).

K.i.s.a.t.s checks whether you studied at the specified university, whether it exists, and whether it meets the requirements set in Europe.

Positive aspects for the citizens of Russia

There is good news for Russian citizens: there is an agreement on mutual recognition of diplomas between Russia and Cyprus. However, foreign applicants need to provide a certificate of no criminal record. It is important that the applicant does not pose a threat to the health of local residents; having certain dangerous diseases, such as HIV or tuberculosis, is grounds for refusal. It is also necessary to comply with the laws of the Republic of Cyprus.

Living conditions and opening a bank account

You will also need to provide your residential address, which is required for the application to the Ministry of Labor of Cyprus. Your employer can assist with this and confirm that they will provide you with accommodation. It would be helpful to open a bank account in Cyprus, although you should check with the bank staff whether your international payment card will be suitable for this.

Getting a job in Cyprus

How to find a job in Cyprus? To get a job on this island, you will have to put in more effort compared to citizens of EU countries. However, the steps for job searching here are similar to the procedures followed in other European countries. Once you find an employer in Cyprus and successfully pass the interview and testing, you will receive information about the salary, working conditions, and sign an employment contract.

Next, the employer, based on this agreement, submits an application with the necessary set of documents to the Ministry of Labor of Cyprus. After receiving a recommendation letter, the employer contacts the Civil Registry and Migration Department to obtain your work permit. Once this permit is received, you will also need a visa that allows you to work in southern Cyprus. Please note that a tourist visa issued for entry into the country is not suitable for work. The process of obtaining work visas has already been discussed earlier.

The process of obtaining a residence permit

After that, you will need to apply for a permanent residency permit. While your application is being processed (which can take up to six months), you will receive a temporary foreigner identification card. After 7 years of permanent residence on the island, you will be able to apply for citizenship.

Signing of the employment contract

When signing an employment contract with a future employer, it is important to pay attention to certain key details. In Cyprus, there are no standard collective agreements that establish a minimum salary for specific professions, so it is advisable to consult with an employment lawyer and review information on the official websites of government agencies.

According to Cypriot legislation, wages can be paid either weekly or monthly, depending on the terms of the employment contract. Overtime must be paid at a minimum rate of 1:1, and if an employee's rights are violated, they have the right to file a complaint with the Ministry of Labor.

Within a month of starting employment, the employer is required to provide the new employee with the following information in writing:

• place of work,
• list of tasks,
• start date and duration of employment relations,
• information about non-working days,
• conditions for contract termination,
• details about salary and payment frequency,
• Information about any collective agreements related to working conditions.

Information about labor legislation can be found on the website of the State Employment Service of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.

Employment of EU citizens

As for the employment of citizens from EU countries, the process is regulated by Law No. 7(i) of 2007, concerning "the right of Union citizens and their family members to free movement and residence within the territory of the Republic of Cyprus." Since May 1, 2004, any citizen of an EU country can easily enter Cyprus by presenting a valid passport or identity card. No visa or other additional documents are required for this.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it can be confidently said that employment in Cyprus offers numerous opportunities for both locals and foreign citizens. The island's labor market has its own characteristics and advantages that make it attractive for those seeking work. The ease of finding job vacancies online and through specialized apps greatly simplifies the employment process.

Despite the fact that the unemployment rate is5.9%There has been a significant improvement after the pandemic, which opens doors for qualified specialists from abroad. It is particularly noteworthy that many local job vacancies in the tourism and service sectors require knowledge of English, allowing foreigners who do not speak Greek to find work in various fields.

In-demand professions

Based on the analysis of the requirements for job applicants and popular professions in Cyprus, it can be noted that the highest demand is observed in areas such as:

• Information technology
• Finance
• Jurisprudence
• Medicine

Nevertheless, even for less qualified specialists, the market still offers plenty of opportunities.

Taxation

It is also worth noting that the tax system in Cyprus is quite lenient – the first€19,500Income is not taxed, which makes working on this island even more attractive.

The future of employment in Cyprus

In the future, considering the positive changes in the economy and the steady demand for labor, I believe that Cyprus will continue to develop as a hub for employment for foreign specialists. In conclusion, I would like to add that:

• Research of the local labor market.
• Active use of job search platforms.
• Utilizing the opportunities of internships and other programs.

These actions will significantly increase the chances of successful employment.