Who Needs a Work Permit in Cyprus
Non-EU nationals intending to work in Cyprus are required to obtain a work permit. This permit is mandatory for foreign employees across various sectors, ensuring compliance with Cypriot labor laws. Employers must secure this permit on behalf of their prospective international employees before they commence employment in Cyprus.
Types of Work Visas in Cyprus
Cyprus offers several work visa categories tailored to different employment needs.
| Visa Type | Description |
| Short Stay Visa (Category C) | Allows non-citizens to stay in Cyprus for up to 90 days, suitable for short-term assignments. |
| Multiple Entry Visa (Category C) | Granted for up to five years, permitting stays of up to three months in any consecutive six months, ideal for frequent business travelers. |
| Long Stay Visa (Category D) | Enables non-citizens to reside in Cyprus for up to one year, applicable for long-term employment. |
| EU Blue Card | Allows highly skilled non-EU/EEA citizens to live and work in Cyprus, with a pathway to permanent residence and citizenship. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Cyprus
When hiring talent in Cyprus, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Cyprus. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (around 4 to 6 weeks on average), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Cyprus.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Cyprus
Independent professionals in Cyprus can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Euro (EUR) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Cyprus.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Cyprus
Transferring an existing team member to Cyprus? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Europe, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements for a Work Permit in Cyprus
To obtain a work permit in Cyprus, employers and their prospective international employees must meet specific criteria:
- Employment Contract: A valid contract between the employer and the foreign employee is essential, outlining the terms and conditions of employment.
- Employer's Tax Clearance Certificate: The employer must provide a tax clearance certificate, demonstrating compliance with Cypriot tax obligations.
- Criminal Background Check: The employee should submit a police clearance certificate from their country of residence, issued within the past six months.
- Medical Certificates: Certificates indicating freedom from communicable diseases such as Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and C, HIV/AIDS, and syphilis, issued within the past four months.
- Proof of Health Insurance: Valid coverage for medical services during the employee’s stay in Cyprus.
- Bank Guarantee Letter: A guarantee ranging from €350 to €850, valid for at least 12 months.
Cyprus Work Permit Application Process
- The employer must obtain approval from the Cyprus Department of Labour, demonstrating that the position cannot be filled by a local candidate.
- Upon approval, the Department of Labour issues a Letter of Recommendation to the employer.
- The employer submits an application for the employee's work permit to the Civil Registry and Migration Department, including all necessary documentation.
- After the work permit is granted, the employee applies for a Cyprus work visa at the Cypriot embassy or consulate in their home country.
- Within seven days of arrival in Cyprus, the employee must register with the local District Office of the Aliens and Immigration Unit or the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Process for Visa Sponsorship in Cyprus
In Cyprus, the employer is responsible for sponsoring the foreign employee's work permit and visa. This includes demonstrating the necessity of hiring a non-EU national by proving that no qualified local candidates are available for the position. The employer must handle the application processes for both the work permit and the entry visa, ensuring all legal requirements are met to facilitate the employee's relocation and employment in Cyprus.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Cyprus
Employers and employees should be aware of the associated fees for obtaining work permits and visas in Cyprus:
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| Cyprus Work Visa | €20 |
| Cyprus Work Permit | €20 |
| Temporary Residence Permit | €70 |
Note: The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in Cyprus, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.
Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Cyprus
The processing time for a Cyprus work permit typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks after the Migration Department receives all required documents. However, in certain cases, it can extend up to six months, depending on individual circumstances and the completeness of the application. Employers should plan accordingly to accommodate these timelines when hiring international staff.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Cyprus
Renewing a work permit in Cyprus requires timely action to ensure continued legal employment. Applications should be submitted at least one month before the current permit's expiration. Employers and employees must provide updated documentation, including a valid employment contract, proof of tax compliance, and other documents required by the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Cyprus
The Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU and non-EEA nationals to reside in Cyprus while working remotely for employers or clients outside the country. Applicants must demonstrate a stable monthly net income of at least €3,500 after taxes, possess valid health insurance, and have suitable accommodation in Cyprus. The visa is valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal for two additional years. Family members can accompany the primary visa holder but are not permitted to engage in employment within Cyprus.
- Proof of Remote Work: Evidence of employment with a company registered abroad or documentation of self-employment with clients located outside Cyprus.
- Minimum Income: Stable monthly net income of at least €3,500 after tax deductions.
- Health Insurance: Valid coverage for the duration of the stay in Cyprus.
- Accommodation: Proof of a rented or owned residence in Cyprus.
- Clean Criminal Record: A police clearance certificate from the country of residence.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Cyprus
Employers in Cyprus may face challenges such as navigating complex immigration procedures, ensuring compliance with local labor laws, and managing cultural differences within a diverse workforce. Engaging with local authorities and legal experts is recommended to address these challenges effectively.
- Navigating Immigration Procedures: Understanding and complying with work permit and visa requirements can be complex.
- Labor Law Compliance: Adhering to regulations related to employment contracts, worker rights, and taxes.
- Cultural Integration: Managing a diverse workforce while addressing cultural differences to maintain harmony.
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
Back
.svg)
.svg)
.png)
.webp)
.svg)