Who needs a work permit in Cyprus

If you are an EU citizen, you do not need a work permit to work or start a business in Cyprus. However, certain procedures must be followed. Cyprus is becoming increasingly attractive to young EU citizens who want to live, work, and raise their families there because of the low crime rate, the Mediterranean climate, and the slower pace of life. However, you should ensure that you and your family members can work in Cyprus and evaluate your qualifications and motivations objectively. What kind of work do you expect to do there? Keep in mind that you will be competing against highly skilled Cypriots.

While approximately 90% of the population on the island speaks English, some job opportunities may not be accessible to you if you do not speak fluent Greek, depending on your profession. Even if your qualifications are acceptable, you may still need to pass Greek specialist exams if you want to practice a profession such as law, engineering, or accounting. Expats who come to work in Cyprus typically find employment or start businesses in the tourism, information technology, and construction industries, where foreign qualifications are more readily accepted.

EU citizens can travel to Cyprus and search for work for up to 90 days with just a passport or national identity card, as they have the same right to work in Cyprus as in any other EU country. However, if you want to stay in the country for work or to start a business, you should begin the process of obtaining a temporary residence permit as soon as possible. If you are working for a foreign company on a temporary basis, your employer should handle your application.

Non-EU nationals who want to work in Cyprus must obtain a work permit (as well as a visa) before entering the country. The Ministry of Labour must be convinced that a Cypriot or an EU citizen is not available to fill the position before issuing a work permit. Executive and non-executive permits are classified separately. Partners or directors of Cyprus companies listed with the Registrar of Companies, as well as department managers of foreign companies with offices in Cyprus, are classified as executives. Other managerial, professional, administrative, technical, and clerical staff are classified as non-executive. A work permit is usually valid for three to one year after it is issued.