On Friday 20 December, the Cypriot Labour Ministry announced new employment rules for third-country nationals who are highly paid employees or students.
The former will now be issued with a Cypriot version of the EU Blue Card (Blue Card EU). This will allow them to live and work not only in Cyprus but also in the 25 member states of the European Union, with the exception of Denmark and Ireland.
To obtain a Blue Card in Cyprus, a third-country national must have a pre-tax salary of at least €43,632 per year and work in the information and communication technology, pharmaceutical or maritime sectors (excluding captains and crew members of ships).
As for international students, they can work on the island during their studies in a wide range of professions. These include: wholesale and retail trade and repair, loaders, petrol station operators or car washers, health and social care workers, elderly care workers, clinic assistants, kitchen assistants, food delivery workers, cleaners, waiters, bartenders, receptionists, maids and others. The main requirement is a high school diploma and a basic knowledge of Greek.
Students who find a job are required to sign an employment contract with their employer and to provide a certificate of completion of full-time studies, a document with the study plan from the educational institution and a residence permit.
They will also have to notify the Ministry of Labour of their monthly work schedule.
According to the ministry, these measures are aimed at increasing employment and supporting the economy in Cyprus.