Since no tourist visa entitles a foreigner to work in Cyprus, either citizenship or Work Permit is required for employment.
This document does not replace the visa but only gives the right to work officially. There are 2 types of companies in Cyprus: local and foreign. It is much easier for foreign companies to bring in employees than for local companies. As a rule, foreign companies bring employees who are already on their staff.
Local companies, when hiring a non-EU citizen, must first prove the fact that there are no employees from Cyprus and other EU countries for the declared position. This is done by placing an advertisement in Cyprus newspapers and the Ministry of Labor database with the company's registration number about the open vacancy. The officials of the Ministry of Labor register the applicants. If at the end of the period of 40 working days, there are no applications from worthy candidates, the application for opening a work visa is accepted, and the Ministry of Labor begins to directly review the company.
Officials check the company by any means they know to see if it is a fake structure made just to get a work permit. A monthly salary must be approved, and funds must be in the company account to pay salaries throughout the year. If the local Cyprus company has small turnovers, small movements on the account, if there are not enough Cypriots on the staff, if the subject of business seems insignificant to the officials - the company may be refused. If the company is successful and firmly on its feet, the application for a work visa will be accepted by employees of the Ministry of Labor, and then after all checks will be issued a permit to hire a citizen of a third country.
To obtain a work permit in Cyprus, you must follow certain steps and requirements.
Work Permit process
The standard process for obtaining a Work Permit is as follows:
- Find an employer. You need to find an employer who is willing to offer you a job in Cyprus. The employer can help you with all the necessary paperwork. You can search for a job remotely, or you can be on the island on a tourist visa for up to 3 months. We have recently published job sites in another article.
- Applying. It is up to the employer to apply. The application must be submitted in your name to the Civil Registry and Migration Department. The application must include the necessary information about you and the job opening.
- Obtaining a work permit. After the application has been processed and all requirements have been met, you will be issued a work permit. It can take from two weeks to two months to process the permit. During the process, the Migration Department will issue a certificate that you can officially stay in Cyprus.
- Visa or residence permit. After obtaining a work permit, you will also obtain the appropriate visa or residence permit to stay legally in Cyprus. Applicants can add family members to the application by sponsoring them. The following are included in the application: spouse with whom the main applicant is in a registered or common-law marriage, children under the age of 25, and parents of spouses.
- Health insurance and other requirements. You will also be issued with public health insurance and other documents in accordance with Cypriot law.
It is important to note that requirements and procedures are subject to change, so it is always best to check for up-to-date information on official Cypriot government websites or contact consular offices. It is also advisable to contact legal advisors or immigration specialists for detailed assistance.
What documents do I need to obtain a work permit in Cyprus?
To obtain a work permit in Cyprus, you need to submit the following set of documents:
- Application for Employment Form M.58 and M.64.This application is submitted by the employer. The application must include information about the job, your work experience, and qualifications. Signature and stamp of the employing company.
- A copy of your passport. You will need to provide a copy of your passport or other identification document. The expiration date of your passport must not be less than 3 years old.
- Criminal record certificate. This is ordered from the resident country and must not have been issued more than 1 month ago.
- Diplomas and qualification documents. Depending on the job requirements, you may need educational diplomas, certificates, and other documents that prove your qualifications.
- Medical Certificate. You must obtain a certificate of your health status in advance from any medical center. It is obligatory to take a fluorography to exclude tuberculosis, and blood tests for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C.
- Photographs. Photos of the size of various documents and forms.
- Work contract.
- Certificate of no criminal record. To be ordered online from the country of citizenship.
- A bank letter of guarantee for an amount, depending on the foreigner's country of origin, to cover possible repatriation costs, valid for six months after the end of the employment contract.
- A one-year rental contract may also be required.
This is a general list of documents, but the requirements may vary depending on the type of work, your status, and other factors. Therefore, it is important to contact the relevant authorities on time and clarify the specific requirements for your case. The work permit allows its holder to reside permanently in Cyprus and obliges to pay the necessary taxes. Upon employment, the citizen receives a tax identification number and social security number. The work permit is issued by the Migration Service of the Republic of Cyprus for 1 year. Success in obtaining a work permit depends largely on the type of work and professional skills of the applicant.
Renewal of a work visa is a simpler operation. The employer must confirm the fact of payment of all social taxes on the employee and submit all documents to the Ministry of Labor in advance. After approval of the extension of the work visa, a new Cyprus residence permit is issued at the immigration department of the place of residence.
What is the easiest area to obtain a work permit in Cyprus?
In Cyprus, work permits may be more readily available in certain sectors than others. Some areas where the process may be easier or in demand include:
- Tourism and Hospitality. Cyprus is a popular tourist destination, so industries related to hospitality, restaurants, entertainment, and tourism can have a high demand for labor.
- Construction and real estate. With the development of infrastructure and construction in Cyprus, professionals in construction, architecture, engineering, and other related industries can find job opportunities.
- Information Technology and Finance. The information technology, finance, and services sectors in general can also provide opportunities for skilled professionals.
- Education and Research. Universities, research institutes, and schools can provide job openings for teachers, researchers, and administrative staff.
- Healthcare. Positions for doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals may be available in the healthcare industry, including medical centers, hospitals, and clinics.
It is important to keep in mind that the availability of work visas may also depend on the specifics of your qualifications, work experience, and employer requirements. In some cases, companies may be willing to assist with obtaining work visas for qualified individuals. Therefore, it is recommended that you search for job openings and contact employers in the industries you are interested in to clarify opportunities and requirements.
Types of work permits
Work permits are categorized from A to E and are classified according to the field in which employment is intended and the type of position the applicant intends to hold. Each category presupposes that its holder and his/her activities must favorably influence and contribute to the development of the economy of the Republic of Cyprus.
- Category A - is required for applicants intending to set up their own business in the agricultural industry in Cyprus. The applicant must also have at his disposal funds in the amount determined by the legislation at the date of application.
- Category B - is required for applicants intending to set up their own business in the mining sector upon initially obtaining the relevant license. The applicant must also have at his/her disposal funds in the amount determined by the legislation at the date of application.
- Category C - is required for applicants intending to set up their own business in the field of trade in Cyprus. Again, in this case, a license and funds in the amount determined by the legislation at the date of application will be required.
- Category D - is required for applicants intending to conduct scientific research in Cyprus. The level of education and skills must meet the requirements for this type of activity. The applicant must have the means to support his/her stay in Cyprus.
- Category E - this category is suitable for citizens who have received a job offer from a Cypriot company.
The special category includes workers of creative professions. The Migration Department issues grants for entry/temporary residence and work to foreign artists who will work in music and dance establishments providing entertainment. Applications in these cases are made through artistic agents according to the established procedure, who are also responsible for the normal residence of foreign artists in Cyprus. In addition, this Department issues entry/temporary residence and work permits to individuals, companies, hotels to artists who will be working in hotels, theaters and other cultural events for just a few days.
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