Did you know that employing a foreign employee in your company can be a smart business move? In today’s globalized business environment, companies often seek talent from around the world to enhance their workforce. Cyprus, with its strategic location and business-friendly environment, has become an attractive destination for foreign employees.

We will help guide employers through the process of bringing a highly paid third-country national to Cyprus, outlining the steps involved in obtaining entry and residence permits. There are 7 steps that need to be followed by both parties for the purpose of employing and foreign national in your business.

However, before we get into it, there are employment criteria put by the Labor Office of Cyprus that need to be met before the procedure even begins;

Foreign Employee Criteria

The rules and steps for approving work permits have been set by the Social Partners and given the green light by the Council of Ministers on 6/12/1991.

Before granting a permit for foreign employee and/or workers, it’s crucial to make sure there are no local (Cypriot or European) candidates available to meet the employer’s specific needs.

This is confirmed through an investigation by the Ministry of Labor & Social Insurance.

Here are the criteria that have been in place:

1. No local candidates with the right qualifications are available for the employer’s needs.
2. Preservation and more effective utilization of the local labor force.
3. Enhancement of working conditions within the workplace.
4. Foreign workers should have the same employment terms as Cypriots and/or locals.
5. If a foreigner is hired for special skills not found among Cypriots, the employer must also train a Cypriot during the foreigner’s employment.

In planning how foreigners can seek employment in Cyprus, the Labor Office is working on adopting fair and clear criteria that match the real needs of the island’s economy and stay within the guidelines of the European Union.

With the criteria now set and these guidelines applicable to both the employer and employee, the next step is to initiate the process of bringing the potential employee to Cyprus.

Entry to the Republic of Cyprus

A highly paid third-country national aiming to work in a company of foreign interests in Cyprus must secure a visa from the consular authorities of the Republic abroad or an entry permit from the Department, submitted by the employer. Support staff can only enter with an entry permit.

Residence and Employment Permits

Upon arrival in Cyprus, the third-country national must register in the Aliens’ Register and apply for a temporary residence and employment permit. The application, submitted with the necessary supporting documents, requires the payment of corresponding fees.

The submission of applications, which can only be done at the Department’s headquarters in Nicosia, involves the provision of biometric data (photo and fingerprints) and a signature, along with the presentation of the payment receipt and a valid travel document.

Biometric data collection may take place simultaneously with the application submission or shortly after, at the District Immigration Unit of the Cyprus Police in the district of residence.

Fees and Stamp Duties

To facilitate the process, employers should be aware of the fees and stamp duties associated with the application process. The issuance of entry and residence permits, valid for 1 – 3 years, incurs a fee of €70, while the issuance or renewal of a residence permit of similar duration requires an €80 fee.

Additionally, the initial registration in the Aliens’ Register costs €70. Employment contracts must also be stamped, with the exact amount depending on the contract value and secured through the Tax Department.

Application Examination Time

The Department endeavors to examine applications within one month, provided they are adequately completed. Delays may occur if the submitted information or documents are insufficient, requiring additional time for examination.

Engaging the services of an immigration consultant can prove invaluable in these situations, as their expertise helps navigate potential delays and minimizes the likelihood of rejection by ensuring all necessary information and documentation are meticulously prepared and submitted in accordance with the regulatory requirements.

Residence Permit Duration

The duration of the residence permit is tied directly to the length of the employment contract, meaning that the permit’s validity aligns with the contractual period agreed upon between the employer and the foreign employee. The maximum duration allowable for a residence permit under this arrangement is limited to a consecutive three-year period.

Maximum Duration of Stay

Highly paid third-country nationals employed in a company of foreign interests may reside in Cyprus without a time limit, as long as they hold a valid temporary residence and employment permit. However, restrictions apply to support staff, subject to the general employment regulations for third-country nationals in Cyprus.

Change of Employer

In the event of changing employers, a highly paid foreign employee in a company of foreign interests has the flexibility to be employed in another such company within one month of termination of the previous employment. The hiring company must also meet the criteria established by the Council of Ministers and examined by the Business Facilitation Unit of the Ministry of Energy, Commerce, and Industry.

Alternatively, an employee of a company of foreign interests can switch to an employer who is not a company of foreign interests, provided they have not completed the maximum duration of stay specified for their residence category and meet the conditions of the new category.

How to do it

Bringing a foreign employee to Cyprus involves a structured process, from obtaining entry permits to securing residence and employment permits. It is crucial for employers to navigate these steps meticulously, ensuring compliance with regulations and timely submission of necessary documents.

To simplify this complex process, it is advisable for employers to seek assistance from an immigration consultant well-versed in the laws, regulations, and procedures.

Engaging the services of a professional can significantly ease the burden on employers and employees alike, making the entire procedure smoother and more efficient. By understanding the intricacies of the process and seeking expert guidance, companies can successfully integrate valuable international talent into their workforce, contributing to the growth and diversity of Cyprus’ business landscape.

At Rideo Group, we take pride in our comprehensive expertise, particularly in immigration and regulations. Our objective is to assist employers in reaching their business objectives and securing the future of their companies effortlessly. Discover more details here or contact us directly for a consultation.

Disclaimer: Although we work hard to deliver accurate and timely information, kindly take note that rules and laws are subject to regular change. It is advised that you speak with our consultants to ensure sure that the information displayed here is accurate and up-to-date.