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Cyprus is making moves to boost its workforce and fill gaps in key sectors with new policies that give both skilled professionals and foreign students more opportunities. The Labour Minister, Yiannis Panayiotou, just issued decrees that make it easier for highly qualified workers from outside the EU to find jobs and give foreign students better access to part-time work.
These new decrees, which were published in the government gazette on Friday, are designed to help tackle labour shortages and attract the talent Cyprus needs to keep its economy moving.
Highly Qualified Workers Welcome
For highly skilled professionals from outside the EU, the rules focus on industries like Information and Communication Technology (ICT), pharmaceutical research, and the maritime sector (excluding ship captains and crew). These professionals can now apply for a European Blue Card, which allows them to live and work anywhere in the EU.
To qualify, the minimum salary has been set at €43,632 per year — that’s about 1.5 times the average annual salary in Cyprus. It’s a strategic move to bring in top talent and make Cyprus a more competitive destination for skilled workers.
Opportunities for Foreign Students
Foreign students who were in Cyprus as of December 1st now have more opportunities to work while they study. The decrees expand the types of jobs students can take, making it easier for them to support themselves and gain work experience.
Students will need to meet a few conditions: they must have a valid residence permit, proof of full-time studies, and a work contract approved by the Labour Department. Employers also need to keep the Labour Department updated with the students' work schedules each month.
The jobs available to students cover a wide range of industries, including:
- Trade
- Health and Social Care
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture
- Catering
- Hotels
This update pushes the deadline for foreign students to qualify for work rights to December 2024, giving more students a chance to benefit.
Meeting Labour Market Demands
These changes are a response to the growing demand for workers in various sectors. By making it easier for skilled professionals and students to work in Cyprus, the government hopes to keep the economy strong and meet the needs of businesses struggling to fill positions.
It’s a practical step forward — one that not only brings in expertise but also helps integrate students into the workforce, giving them a smoother transition from study to work.
With these policies in place, Cyprus is showing it’s open for business, talent, and growth.
