How in-demand are specialists in Cyprus in 2023?

The situation in the labor market in Cyprus

There is indeed a growing need for new personnel in Cyprus, and this situation is becoming increasingly noticeable. The island previously experienced a period of high unemployment, but since 2016, we have been able to observe positive changes in this regard. Even the negative consequences of the pandemic have not significantly affected the trend of decreasing unemployment. By the end of 2022, the unemployment rate in Cyprus was just over 6%. The majority of those employed on the island work in the service sector, followed by the industrial sector and agriculture.

Employment structure and tourism dynamics

For a more detailed analysis of the employment structure on the island, you can refer to the data published on the website of the Statistical Service of Cyprus. Tourism in Cyprus shows positive trends, and investor interest in local real estate is gradually increasing. This, in turn, is creating demand for specialists in various fields, including:

• financiers;
• IT professionals;
• service industry workers.

In the fourth quarter of 2022, the largest number of vacancies released were in the hospitality and restaurant industry, as well as in areas such as water and waste management. There is also strong demand for staffing in the areas of:

• finance and insurance;
• administrative management;
• education.

Regulation of the labor market

Nevertheless, it is worth noting that the government of Cyprus regulates the labor market primarily with the interests of the local population in mind. First and foremost, jobs are offered to Cypriot citizens, then to nationals from European Union countries, and lastly to residents of third countries who require a visa for employment. Employers bear a significant share of responsibility, and if a company is genuinely looking for a qualified professional or wants to attract talent from Russia, Ukraine, or Belarus, it is prepared to go through all the necessary procedures.

Russian-speaking population in Cyprus

Cyprus has become a significant Russian-speaking hub on the Mediterranean coast. The island is home to between 40,000 and 50,000 migrants from Russia and other former Soviet republics, and many Russians come here for vacations in their own homes and apartments. Cyprus attracts our tourists, which leads to an increased demand for professionals who speak Russian — from taxi drivers and waiters to financial consultants and real estate agents.

Job search in Cyprus

If you are interested in finding a job in Cyprus, the most convenient way to start is to use the internet. The official website of the Ministry of Labor of Cyprus offers more than 3000 vacancies, among which you can find offers in the city you are interested in. In addition, this portal offers an opportunity to upload your resume for employers. The EURES portal is aimed at citizens of the European Union, but anyone can use it to search for positions.

There are many job options presented here, but it's important to remember that some of them may not be entirely relevant and may only serve a bridging function. Thus, Cyprus offers a wide range of employment opportunities, and this trend continues to gain popularity each year.

Situations with job vacancies

In some cases, an employer may already have a specific candidate in mind, but according to the regulations of the Ministry of Labor, they are required to keep the job advertisement on resources intended for residents of Cyprus and citizens of European Union countries. It can be quite difficult to understand if you are in such a situation, so it is advisable to take a rejection calmly if it comes without clear reasons — this may indicate that the position has already been filled.

Resources for job searching

There are many online platforms for employment in Cyprus. These sites include:

• cyprusjobs
• Cyprus work
• careerjet
• eurojobs
• learn4good

It is also worth paying attention to Russian-speaking platforms. For example,hh.ruIt provides the opportunity to search for job vacancies outside of Russia, and various social networks can help find communities dedicated to work. Just enter the desired query into the search engine to find groups interested in posting job vacancies in Cyprus.

Various channels are available on Telegram, such as "Jobs in Cyprus" and "Vacancies in Cyprus", which offer up-to-date information on current offers.

Don't forget about large organizations operating in Cyprus. Their websites often have a section for job openings where you can find many interesting offers. It's recommended to choose companies in your field, bookmark their websites, and periodically check for new job vacancies.

Collaboration with agencies and consultants

If for some reason you do not want to contact employers directly, consider the option of working with intermediaries. There are two types of services:

• Employment consultants who work with recruitment and have all the necessary information readily available. They operate within the employment service of Cyprus and offer three types of services: consulting, support, and employment.
• Employment agencies, among which stand out GRS Global Recruitment Solutions, StaffMatters Recruitment, AP Global, EnergyAdvance Career, and Career Finders.

A list of recruitment agencies and companies in Cyprus where you can send your resume can be easily found in the Cyprus Yellow Pages.

Internships in Cyprus

Internships in Cyprus are a wonderful opportunity not only to get acquainted with the culture of the country but also to gain valuable experience and improve language skills. The duration of such internships ranges from six months to two years, depending on the program. The highest demand for interns is observed in areas such as:

• tourism
• hotel and restaurant business
• finances
• accounting

To find information about internships, you can visit the learn4good website, where job vacancies in the tourism sector are posted. Consulting companyPwCoffers summer internships, andKPMGconducts similar programs.

ResourceCo OverseasIt provides information about internships not only in Cyprus but also in various corners of the world, as well as about volunteer projects that welcome both families and companies. This opens up unique opportunities for professional and personal growth, which can significantly impact your career.

There are many ways to find suitable employment options - the key is to be proactive and not be shy about asking others for help.

Introduction to Volunteer Platforms

Volunteer platforms like HelpStay and HelpX are an excellent option for people looking to actively participate in charitable projects.

It is particularly worth highlighting the job prospects in sunny countries, such as Greece, Israel, Spain, and Turkey. If you are interested in the topics of real estate, immigration, or investment opportunities, it is recommended to subscribe to specialized Telegram channels that provide useful and up-to-date information in these areas.

Preparing for a job search

Before you start looking for a job abroad, you need to consider the different requirements for foreign workers. For example, in Cyprus, the official languages are Greek and English. Proficiency in one of these languages may be critical depending on the line of work.

• If your goal is to take a position that involves interacting with locals, such as working as a nanny, teacher, or doctor, then knowledge of the Greek language will be essential.
• For working in international companies or if your main interlocutors are foreigners, knowledge of the English language can be quite sufficient.

The importance of language skills in the service industry

For many jobs in the service sector, such as animators, hotel and restaurant staff, as well as security guards and tour guides, knowledge of Russian can play a positive role. However, even if your work will focus on Russian-speaking clients, you will still need basic knowledge of English or Greek.

Qualification confirmation

It should be noted that the qualification recognition process for employment in Cyprus is established, as in most European countries. For a number of professions, including medical, educational, and engineering fields, it is necessary to validate the diploma obtained in your country of citizenship.

• This process can be quite confusing, especially for doctors who have to go through several stages.
• They must hold a Cypriot passport or be married to a Cypriot citizen, as well as confirm their qualifications through notarized translations of diplomas and other documents.

Commission on the Recognition of Higher Education

A special commission operates in Cyprus that deals with the recognition of higher education. It verifies the accreditation of the universities where the candidate studied.

If the diploma is recognized as meeting European standards, two documents will need to be obtained:

• A certificate that allows one to work as a doctor.
• A license for a specific specialty.

If the diploma does not meet the requirements, you will have to take between five to eight specialized exams in Greek.

Agreement on Mutual Recognition of Qualifications

It is also worth noting that there is an agreement between Russia and Cyprus on mutual recognition of diplomas and qualifications. This allows, for example, a Russian student who has not completed their studies in their home country to continue their education in Cyprus, or a graduate to find a job without additional exams, simply by preparing the necessary documents.

The process of obtaining a work permit in Larnaca

When it comes to Larnaca, it should be said that the process of obtaining a work permit here is similar to similar procedures in other European Union countries.

Therefore, before deciding to move or look for a job in these popular places, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with all the nuances to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a successful start in a new country.

Stages of employment in Cyprus

At the initial stage of your job search, you will be invited to an interview, during which you will discuss the terms of your future employment with the employer. After reaching an agreement, you will need to sign an employment contract.

As noted earlier, at this time the company will also advertise the vacancy in local sources and will only consider you if it cannot find suitable local talent in Cyprus. In practice, this procedure may vary depending on company policy and is often formalized.

The primary responsibility for obtaining a work permitIt lies with the employer while you will be in your homeland. This process consists of several key stages.

Application process

The first step is for the company to submit an application to the Ministry of Labor of Cyprus. Several documents need to be attached to the application, including:

• copy of the passport;
• certificate of no criminal record;
• medical insurance;
• labor agreement certified by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security;
• receipt for the payment of the state fee for the consideration of the request;
• proof of an amount between €350 and €950 in an account that can be used for your deportation;
• the address where you will be staying in Cyprus.

Options for accommodation in Cyprus

As for the last document, you have two options:

• First— this means to rent accommodation in Cyprus in advance (perhaps your employer can help with this) and make the payment a month or a month and a half before obtaining the necessary permits.
• Second— The employer provides the relevant authority with a document certifying that they will create all the necessary conditions for your temporary residence or for a specified period.

Obtaining a work permit

After receiving an approval letter from the Department of Labor, workers can apply to the Department of Civil Registration and Migration to form a work permit for the foreign employee. The expected response time can range from four to six weeks.

After receiving a positive decision, you will need to apply for a visa to enter Cyprus (details of this process will be described later).

Employment of foreign workers in Cyprus

In Cyprus, there is a set of rules and restrictions regarding the hiring of foreign workers. According to current legislation, businesses cannot employ foreigners for more than four years. During this period, employers are required to either train local specialists or find suitable candidates from European Union countries. It is important to note that a work permit can only be extended within these four years, which is crucial to consider when planning your career on the island.

Risks of illegal employment

This restriction opens up certain risks associated with illegal employment. If discovered, the employee may face serious consequences, including deportation and blacklisting, which will make it very difficult for him/her to remain in Cyprus in the future. For the employer, the discovery of irregularities can also have very negative consequences:

• Large fines
• The risk of imprisonment for a period of up to several months

New changes in legislation

On November 30, 2022, changes were made to the legislation regarding companies with foreign investors. Now, organizations registered in such a registry can take advantage of a simplified procedure for hiring highly qualified specialists and managers from other countries. This simplification applies to employees whose salary exceeds 2,500 euros per month, making Cyprus more attractive to professionals from third countries.

Immigration and obtaining permanent residence

Regarding immigration, Cyprus offers various programs for obtaining permanent residency (PR) for financially independent individuals. With a starting capital of 9,500 euros, one can apply for PR within a year. There is also the option of obtaining Cypriot citizenship through the purchase of real estate, the cost of which can range from 2,150,000 euros, and the process itself can take from six months to a longer period.

Foreigners can also obtain permanent residency through investments, starting from an amount of 2,650,000 euros, with the expectation of receiving the necessary documents within six months. After successfully obtaining all permits, one must contact the nearest embassy of Cyprus to apply for an entry visa.

Required documents for a visa

To apply for a visa, you will need to gather the following set of documents:

• Filled out questionnaire
• Original and copy of a foreign passport
• Color photo
• Medical certificate
• Certificate of no criminal record
• Employment contract or a license confirming the availability of financial means for living in Cyprus.
• Receipt for visa fee payment

Consular fee

It is important to note that as of December 1, 2022 the consular fee for obtaining a Cyprus national visa is 80 euros and is payable in cash in rubles at the current exchange rate at the time of payment. More detailed and up-to-date information can be found on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus.

Blue Card of the European Union

For highly qualified specialists, obtaining a Blue Card of the European Union can be a great option for relocating to the island. In 2021, a new type of residence permit was introduced in Cyprus, allowing foreigners working in international companies to legally reside in the country. Initially, the annual limit for issuing such visas was set at 100, but it was later increased to 500, indicating a growing interest among professionals in this direction.

These changes open up new horizons for skilled workers and contribute to the economic development of the island.

Temporary work in Cyprus: requirements and opportunities

Temporary employment in Cyprus attracts many foreign citizens, especially those coming from non-EU or non-EEA countries. In order to live and work on this picturesque island, potential applicants must meet certain requirements.

Basic requirements for obtaining a work permit

• Presence of citizenship from a country that is not part of the EU or EEA.
• Official employment in a company registered outside of Cyprus.

Financial requirements

Among the key conditions that must be met is the requirement to demonstrate a monthly income that is no less than3500 eurosThis income should be reported after the payment of all taxes and social contributions, which can be confirmed by bank statements or payroll records.

Medical insurance and housing

An important aspect is also the availability of health insurance with a minimum amount of30 thousand eurosIn addition, you need to provide documentary evidence of your place of residence, for example, this could be a rental agreement or a purchase agreement for the property.

Additional documents

Significant attention must also be given to the preparation of the following documents:

• Certificate of no criminal record.
• A motivational letter where the candidate explains the reasons for their move to Cyprus.

Digital nomads are allowed to bring in loved ones temporarily, but it is important to note that these family members will not have the right to be employed within the country.

The process of obtaining a permit and job prospects

The processing speed of applications varies fromfive weekstothree monthsand the residence permit is initially granted for a period of one year, renewable for two years.

Qualified specialists

Qualified specialists, especially in:

• Financial sectors
• Accounting
• Audit
• Banking activities

Especially in demand are sellers, medical workers, lawyers, IT specialists, educators, engineers, and architects, who also have good employment prospects if they have the appropriate qualifications and recommendations.

Jobs for less qualified employees

The labor market is also in demand for workers with medium qualifications in the hospitality sector, including waiters and maids. Vacancies are open for:

• Animators
• Guards
• Guides
• Other entertainment professionals

Office positions, such as administrators and assistants, are also available for applicants.

Income levels in Cyprus

As for the income levels in Cyprus, they continue to show positive dynamics.2023 yearthe average salary is about2546 eurosSince the beginning of this year, a minimum wage has been introduced in885 euros, which will be in effect for the first six months of work.

Working conditions and salary

If the employee stays with the company for more than six months, the minimum wage increases to940 eurosBefore tax payment. It is important to consider what format of salary is specified in the employment contract - gross (before tax deductions) or net (the amount after deductions).

Before agreeing to the proposed terms, it is strongly recommended to familiarize yourself with the prices of essential goods and services in Cyprus. This will help you better assess how much you can save after covering all obligations.

Living expenses in Cyprus

If you are planning to rent accommodation in Cyprus and want to afford meals at restaurants, gym visits, and various entertainment options, you should consider that your monthly expenses may amount to approximately 1500 euros for one person, while for a couple, this amount can range from 2500 to 3000 euros. This magnificent island offers a rich culture and numerous opportunities, attracting a significant number of people from the CIS countries. We recommend checking out some of our materials on this topic, such as "Why Russians Chose Cyprus: Exploring the Reasons" and "What Are the Living Conditions for Russian-speaking Immigrants on This Island." Also, don't miss our detailed guide to Cyprus, which includes information about the real estate market, education, and other aspects of life.

Taxes and financial aspects

In Cyprus, there are many nuances regarding residency, education, and the overall quality of life that may be of interest to new residents. One important aspect is taxes. The tax system on the island depends on your income level. For example, if your annual income is less than 19,500 euros, you are not required to pay tax. For incomes ranging from 19,501 to 28,000 euros, a rate of 20% applies. For incomes up to 36,300 euros, the tax rate is 25%, from 36,301 to 60,000 euros it is 30%, and for incomes over 60,000 euros, it is 35%.

This information may be particularly relevant for foreigners who own property on the island, as specific tax regulations apply to them. It is also important to stay informed about potential changes in VAT rates, as this could impact property prices.

Pension system

The retirement age for men and women is 63 years, while the average pension in Cyprus ranges from 700 to 1000 euros. Because of this, many citizens continue to work even after reaching retirement age, as the cumulative pension system allows for annual increases in payments. However, different rules apply to immigrants:

• Foreigners are not allowed to work.after retirement.
• Possibility of relocationto the island if you have sufficient funds to live on.
• Remote workwith a digital visa, allowing you to stay in Cyprus for up to two years.

Job vacancies and employment

For those looking for work in Cyprus, the best prospects are for highly qualified specialists such as doctors, engineers, accountants, and IT experts. Workers in the construction sector can also find many opportunities. However, if you do not have specific qualifications, finding employment may become a more challenging task, and you are likely to be offered low salaries.

To find a good seasonal job, it will take quite a bit of effort, as the number of applicants often exceeds the number of available positions in this field. So, if you want to turn your dream of living in Cyprus into reality, be prepared for a number of challenges. However, all the positive aspects of this island certainly make it an attractive place for new residents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that the Cypriot labor market is indeed opening its doors to specialists from different countries, and this is an important step for the further economic development of the island. Although the labor market is regulated with the aim of prioritizing local residents, opportunities still exist, and success in employment largely depends on the willingness and desire of employers to seek talent beyond Cyprus.

Thanks to the thriving tourism sector and the growing interest in local real estate, Cyprus's economy continues to revive. This trend positively impacts the demand for labor, creating excellent conditions for foreigners willing to contribute to the development of the economy. I believe that mutually beneficial cooperation between local employers and foreign specialists can create a powerful synergistic effect, fostering the strengthening of the services, finance, and education sectors.

Cultural unity

Moreover, the large number of Russian-speaking citizens living in Cyprus creates a cultural unity, which certainly facilitates the integration and adaptation of new workers. The exchange of experiences and knowledge that takes place between locals and immigrants undoubtedly enriches society.

Tips for finding a job

Regardless of whether you will be looking for a job on your own through online resources or using the services of agencies, remember that persistence and openness to new experiences are key aspects of a successful job search. Cyprus offers not only new career opportunities but also the chance to enjoy life in one of the most beautiful corners of the Mediterranean.

Result

Ultimately, Cyprus is not just a place to work, but also an attractive home where everyone can find their place. I hope that all those planning to move or temporarily stay on the island will find not only work here but also inspiration for new beginnings.