Left Cyprus for a better career? The government wants you back

The second phase of the government's repatriation campaign begins tomorrow, with events scheduled in London and Birmingham. Cyprus is once again seeking to attract talented professionals who left for opportunities abroad as it looks to strengthen its labor market. The need to boost the workforce with skilled Cypriots from overseas has become increasingly urgent in recent years.

This trend has intensified as more foreign companies establish or relocate operations to Cyprus with a substantial physical presence, particularly in the technology, digital services, and information and communications technology (ICT) sectors, significantly increasing demand for highly skilled workers.

As part of this second repatriation campaign in the United Kingdom, launched under the government's strategy to turn "brain drain" into "brain gain," the tax incentives being offered are expected to be clearer and more concrete. This follows Parliament's approval of amendments to the Income Tax Law aimed at providing tax incentives and other benefits to attract skilled workers to Cyprus and encourage Cypriot citizens living abroad to return.

Under the new provisions, the tax-exempt portion of income from first employment in Cyprus will increase from 20% to 25%, while the maximum tax exemption will rise from €8,550 to €25,000. The required period of residence abroad after completing studies has also been reduced from 15 years to seven years in order to qualify for the exemption. The legislation further provides funding for the private education of the children of Cypriots returning from abroad.

It is worth recalling that President Nikos Christodoulides' first appeal to Cypriots abroad to consider returning home took place in London in May. While interest was significant, many attendees raised questions about the details of the tax incentives included in the government's package.

Many of those expressing interest are also considering launching their own businesses, particularly in the fields of technology and innovation.

Actions and growing interest

Nearly a year after the repatriation initiative was announced, all the measures outlined in the original action plan have now been implemented, while additional initiatives are being introduced to further strengthen the effort.

Particular emphasis has been placed on the creation of a digital repatriation platform, where companies can advertise available positions and the Ministry of Labour can match candidates with employers based on skills and needs. The system allows both job seekers and businesses to identify potential opportunities.

Since the first call for diaspora talent to return home in May, the Minds in Cyprus Information Hub has also been operating, providing practical guidance on employment, education, the national health system (GeSY), social insurance, and professional opportunities in Cyprus.

According to the latest figures, around 720 people have registered on the platform, with numbers continuing to grow ahead of the upcoming events in Birmingham and London. Approximately 350 job vacancies have already been posted.

Tomorrow, Deputy Minister to the President Irene Piki, representatives from Invest Cyprus, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), and a number of business leaders will be in Birmingham, followed by an event in London on Tuesday, to present the incentives available to members of the Cypriot diaspora and their families who are considering returning.

The London event has already attracted around 350 registrations, while more than 20 companies will be participating, offering hundreds of available positions.

This year, the UK events will take the form of career fairs, with a strong focus on direct interaction between employers and prospective employees. Participants will have the opportunity to schedule meetings with company representatives, while dedicated spaces will be available for interviews and discussions.

Online meetings are also being considered for those unable to attend in person, particularly for the parallel event taking place in Birmingham.

Although there are not yet official figures showing how many people have already returned under the new incentives, a clearer picture is expected to emerge once 2025 tax returns are submitted and authorities can identify those who have benefited from the tax relief measures. The targeted incentives only recently came into effect and apply to individuals who returned to Cyprus from January 1, 2025.

Beyond the UK

Interest in returning to Cyprus is not limited to the United Kingdom. Cypriots living in countries such as Canada, Australia, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates have also shown interest.

Those considering a return are not only looking for jobs with international or foreign companies operating in Cyprus. According to information obtained by Kathimerini, many are exploring the possibility of starting their own businesses or launching startups, particularly in the technology and innovation sectors.

At the same time, the platform also highlights employment opportunities within the wider public sector wherever possible.

Following the UK campaign, the government's efforts are expected to expand to other countries. An initiative aimed at attracting both talent and investment from the United States has already been scheduled for October.