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Between 2023 and 2024, almost 21,000 people were employed in Cyprus by foreign-owned companies, according to official data from the Ministry of Migration and International Protection. During the same period, authorities issued a total of 48,212 temporary residence permits to these workers and their family members.
According to Kathimerini's Panayiotis Rougalas, the breakdown shows that family reunification accounts for the largest share, with 25,053 permits granted to relatives of employees. The workers themselves received 20,997 permits, while 2,162 were issued to dependent visitors such as spouses, children, and other relatives.
The ministry’s figures also highlight the countries of origin for permit holders, reflecting Cyprus’ strategy to attract tech companies. Russian citizens top the list with 33,517 permits, followed by Ukrainians (3,504), Belarusians (2,713), Israelis (1,957), Indians (1,230), and Lebanese (1,193). Smaller numbers come from Kazakhstan (336), the U.K. (322), the U.S. (254), China (241), and other countries (2,945).
These numbers underline the growing role of foreign talent in Cyprus’ economy, with family reunification playing a key part in supporting workers relocating to the island.
