Cyprus
Job market
What are my chances of getting a job?
The recession is severely impacting Cyprus with GDP remaining at the same negative level as in 2010 and unemployment having risen considerably from the corresponding period in 2009. The biggest unemployment group is the 15-24 age range. The construction industry is the worst hit, while the service industry has the most jobs followed closely by the hotel and restaurant industry.
The best prospects exist for those educated at a higher level, such as diploma holding nurses and midwives, accountants, technical service consultants and computer specialists, telecommunications and electrical engineers.
Finding graduate-level employment in Cyprus can be challenging. Employers are willing to recruit UK graduates, but knowledge of Greek is essential for most positions. In the Turkish-administered area in the north, work permits are only granted for posts for which there are no suitably qualified Turkish Cypriot applicants.
- Typical problems encountered: increased competition from home graduates, especially as job opportunities are not as widely available as in previous years. Language requirements may exclude those not fluent in Greek.
- How to improve your chances: research the Cypriot job market thoroughly so you have realistic expectations and are able to make informed career choices. Try to develop contacts in order to find out about opportunities and keep checking employment websites.
- Language requirements: although English is widely spoken on the island (by around 90% of the population), it can be difficult to secure employment in Cyprus unless you speak Greek fluently.
Where can I work?
- Major industries: service sector and hotel and restaurant industry
- Industries in decline: construction
- Major companies: 7A Emporio Ltd, ArtFX Cyprus Web Design, CubePay Solutions Ltd, Electricity Authority of Cyprus, METRO (supermarket), MTN Cyprus, Primetel PLC, J&P (Joannou & Paraskevaides), KEO Ltd, Thas Maritime.
- Search for more companies: Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Europages, Cyprus Yellow Pages and Wikipedia List of Companies in Cyprus
- Major cities: Nicosia (capital and largest), Limassol and Larnaca. Famagusta in the Turkish Cypriot administered area.
What’s it like working in Cyprus?
- Average working hours: generally 38 - 40 hours a week. Most offices and businesses work from 8:00 until 17:30, with a break from 13:00 to 14:30.
- Holidays: 20 days a year if you work a five-day week or 24 days if you work a six-day week with an additional 15 days of public holidays.
- Average graduate starting salary: salaries are lower in Cyprus than in the UK and vary according to the type of job role and profession. Graduate starting wages are estimated at around €15,000 - €20,000. There is a minimum wage of approximately €800 per month but you should check exact figures as this may change.
- Tax rates: tax on an annual income below €19,500 is 0%, from €19,501-€28,000 it is 20%, from €28,001-€36,300 it is 25% and over €36,300 it is 30%.
Working practices and customs: Cypriots prefer face-to-face meetings and email and telephone correspondence is regarded as impersonal. Trust and personal relationships form the basis of business, and loyalty is to the individual rather than the company. Ensure you are on time for meetings, but do not be surprised to be kept waiting. Meetings tend to veer off the agenda and are often interrupted, so you need to be patient. Decisions are rarely reached at meetings, which are seen as a discussion and ideas forum. Business dress is similar to that in the UK and other European countries.
Applying for jobs
How do I apply for a job?
To improve your chances of getting graduate level employment, consider looking for a job at entry level. This will allow you to work in Cyprus, developing your language skills and at the same time making the most of any networking opportunities and developing contacts.
Although it is possible to move to Cyprus before securing employment, it may be more beneficial to organise work before leaving the UK so you know you will have employment when you arrive.
Personal contacts and networks are important throughout Cyprus, so use any contacts you have and apply speculatively. The general rule is to contacting the employer by telephone initially before sending a targeted CV and covering letter.
Application procedures are similar to those in the UK - some employers prefer CVs and others application forms, including online applications.
Find out more about applications, CVs and covering letters and job application advice.
What kind of CV do I need?
Your CV should usually be presented in chronological order and should be no more than two pages. Often one page will suffice. It should highlight your educational achievements, relevant experiences and skills, including your language skills. References are not usually included unless specifically requested by the employer. Your CV should always be accompanied by a typewritten application letter, highlighting your academic and professional experience relevant to the job.
Further advice on how to prepare a CV can be found on the Europass. A CV example can also be found on the Eurograduate - the European Career Guide website.
What will the interview process be like?
The interview is the most important aspect of the recruitment process and, as in the UK, the employer will ask questions to assess your skills and qualities for the job role. Interviews can be arranged in English for candidates who do not speak Greek, unless there is another common language, and there may be up to three interviews. Written examinations or practical tests at assessment centres are commonly used by larger companies.
Will my UK qualifications be recognised?
The following initiatives cover the recognition of qualifications abroad:
Do I still need to pay UK tax and National Insurance?
If you are planning to live and work in Cyprus, check your UK tax and National Insurance position with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to ensure that you are not losing any UK pension rights.
Vacancy sources
Jobs websites
Recruitment websites
Newspapers
Other sources
Hidden vacancies
As Cyprus is a relatively small country with a limited number of inhabitants, networks are strong and personal contacts are extremely important. Most jobs are found through these networks and who you know may be more important than what you know. Speculative applications to prospective employers are also reasonably successful.
Work experience
Work placements and internships
Exchange programmes
Your institution may be involved in the Leonardo da Vinci Programme through which vocational training exchanges and work placements are arranged with partner organisations in other countries. Contact your own institution’s international office for more details.
Teaching schemes
There are opportunities to teach English in Cyprus with various organisations, such as TEFL Cyprus, or search for opportunities via Teach Abroad or ESL Base.
Volunteering
Casual work
Casual work opportunities exist in the tourist areas throughout Cyprus in hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars and are mainly available throughout the summer months. Most of these jobs can be found by asking employers in person or searching such websites as Jobs Abroad.
Short-term opportunities
Opportunities for short-term employment are rare and general job hunting techniques and sources should be used.
Gap year opportunities
Few structured gap year programmes are advertised, so Cyprus does not appear to be a popular choice for gap year projects. Use job hunting sources and general gap year websites to search for opportunities.
Postgraduate study
How does the higher education system work?
Higher and tertiary education in Cyprus is provided through a mix of public and private institutions and learning can be undertaken in a full-time, part-time or distance-learning capacity. The qualification structure is similar to that in the UK, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral and vocational courses.
What courses are available?
Postgraduate courses are offered at both Masters and Doctorate level, with a Masters generally being one year in duration and PhD study lasting between three to eight years. The main language of instruction is Greek in the south, but some institutions offer courses taught in English, for details of such courses visit individual institution websites. The universities in Northern Cyprus all teach in English.
- The BBC Languages has information on learning Greek and Turkish.
- You can learn Greek online via the Kypros website.
- During school term time, language courses are held at some state schools, information is available from the school directly and by searching the Cyprus Yellow Pages website you can find details of private language schools and tutors.
Where can I study?
There are three recognised public universities: the University of Cyprus, the Open University of Cyprus and the Cyprus University of Technology.
- University of Cyprus offers various programmes within the following faculties: Humanities, Pure and Applied Science, Social Science and Education, Economics and Management, Engineering and Letters. The University of Cyprus is renowned for its teaching and research reputation, both locally and nationally. The university offers an intensive Greek language course, lasting 4-8 weeks at the beginning of each semester (August and January) and intended for international students.
- The Open University of Cyprus offers a small range of graduate and PhD open and distance learning courses, including Business, Banking Finance, Health Care Management, Education and Information Systems. The university began operation in 2006 and intends to build on current programmes.
- Cyprus University of Technology currently has five academic faculties: Arts & Communication, Health Sciences, Management and Economics, Science and Environment and Engineering and Technology.
There are also private universities, including some where the medium of instruction is English. Details can be found at Cyprus Higher Education.
In the northern (Turkish administered) part of the island there are six universities where all courses are taught in English. Details and a list of contacts are available from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (Universities)
.
A list of universities throughout the island is available from Universities Worldwide.
Applying for postgraduate study?
The basic requirement for postgraduate study is that applicants must have a university degree awarded by an accredited institution. Check specific entry requirements with each institution before applying. Most universities in Cyprus require a completed course application form which must be accompanied by at least two letters of recommendation. Some institutions require candidates to undertake entrance examinations or pre-entry interviews. Each institution has specific entry requirements so it is essential to check with the postgraduate office or admissions department for details.
Some institutions require applications to be submitted by March/April to be considered for a course beginning in the autumn, although it is advisable to apply for a course as early as possible.
Applications are made directly to the university or institution you wish to attend. Contact the university directly as each has its own admissions system for postgraduate programmes. All universities have their own application form. Some have central admission departments and others require you to submit applications to individual faculties or departments. Most have application forms available on their website or email contacts to request electronic versions.
Personal statements and references are a requirement for most courses. Details are available on individual institution websites in English or by requesting a postgraduate prospectus.
Fees and scholarships
- Getting funding in Cyprus can be difficult, so try to arrange financial support for the course before you arrive.
- Some institutions offer scholarships directly to new students on the basis of academic, financial or other criteria. For details, visit the institution website.
- Tuition fees may vary depending on individual institutions but as a guide: a Masters degree costs €5125, a PhD €4000 (for postgraduate students with a Masters) and €6500 PhD (for postgraduate students without a Masters).
Are there any exchange programmes?
The University of Cyprus has participated in the Socrates/Erasmus programme since 1998 and has welcomed around 186 Erasmus students to the university. In order to take part in the Erasmus programme, you must be nominated by your home institution, so contact your Erasmus coordinator for further details (usually based within the international office) or visit the Erasmus.
Will my qualification be recognised in the UK?
You can find out from UK National Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) how a qualification gained in Cyprus will be regarded in the UK.
Visa and immigration
Do I need a visa and/or work permit?
EU nationals do not need a visa or work permit to enter or work in Cyprus, but citizens of non-EU countries may be required to have these documents. A list of countries whose citizens need a visa is available from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Cyprus).
How do I apply for a visa and/or work permit?
Non-EU citizens should check with the nearest Cyprus embassy to identify what type of visa/work permits are required to work in Cyprus and how to apply. To find a list of embassies, visit Embassy World
If you intend to stay and work in Cyprus it is necessary to:
- Apply for an Alien Registration Certificate (ARC) within eight days at the local Immigration Branch of the Police. There is a small fee for this.
- Apply for a social insurance number upon securing employment in Cyprus.
- Apply for a residence permit within three months.
More details are available on the Cyprus Government Web Portal.
In the Turkish-administered part of the island, work permits are only granted for posts for which there are no suitably qualified Turkish Cypriot applicants and must be applied for by your potential employer before you travel.
If you are not a UK national, contact the Cyprus embassy in the country where you are currently residing about how to obtain visas and work permits. If you are living in the UK, go to the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus .
You might also find it helpful to contact your ministry of foreign affairs (or your own embassy if you are not living in your home country) to ask whether there are any issues to be taken into account when considering working in Cyprus.
How do I apply for permanent residency?
EU nationals have the right to reside in Cyprus for up to three months without any conditions other than the requirement that they hold a valid identity card or passport. If you intend to reside in Cyprus for longer than three months, you must apply to the Cyprus immigration authorities for an EU residency permit within four months of your arrival. Application forms are available from the Civil Registry and Migration Department of the Ministry of the Interior (Cyprus) and from District Aliens and Immigration offices.
Non-EU nationals should check with their own embassy or visit the Cyprus Government Web Portal for more details.
Help and advice abroad
Public employment services
Local district labour offices will register individuals looking for work and give appropriate information, guidance and assistance in job hunting. These offices are controlled by the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance (Cyprus).
When you register with the public employment service for the first time, you will need to present a valid passport/ID card, your Alien Registration Certificate (ARC) and copies of certificates of academic and/or professional qualifications.
You can also access contact details for the European Employment Service advisers in Cyprus through EURES - European Job Mobility Portal. EURES advisers are trained specialists who provide information and guidance to jobseekers interested in working in Cyprus.
Higher education careers support
The University of Cyprus is the only state institution that advertises a dedicated careers service offering help to all students and graduates of the university. There are no costs for using the service and details of the support available is on the university’s website.
Help in an emergency
- The police, ambulance and fire service can be contacted by telephoning 112.
- The British High Commission in Cyprus can provide British nationals with help and assistance in a variety of situations, for example, if you are seriously ill or injured, if you have been a victim of crime, if you need a lawyer, if someone dies or if you need to register a missing person. See the website for details of services available together with advice, information and hospital contact details.
- More information on healthcare provision is available from the Ministry of Health (Cyprus).
Country overview
Geography
- Full country name: Republic of Cyprus
- Population: 1.2 million
- Border countries: Cyprus is an island in the north-eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, with Turkey to the north, Syria to the east and Egypt to the South.
- Climate: sunshine all year round with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
- Terrain: mountain regions run from the northwest almost to the coast at the east, mountains descend to costal plains along the island.
- Natural hazards: droughts and extreme water shortages, occasional mild earthquake activity.
Living in Cyprus
- Cost of living: in general the cost of living in Cyprus is quite high, although it is a bit cheaper than the UK. The estimated monthly living cost (in Nicosia) for the average student is €700-€1000, including the cost of rent. Restaurants charge around €14 to €25 per person for a meal. There are plenty of properties available for rent in the large towns and cities at rates that compare reasonably with properties in the UK. As a guide, the rent for a three-bedroom furnished house may range from €400 to €1200 depending on area and degree of luxury. 2 bed apartments range from €400 to €850 per month. If you intend to purchase a property, ensure you gain professional legal advice as many British nationals have encountered serious problems regarding property. Advice about buying property is available from the British High Commission in Cyprus . More information about living in Cyprus is available from The United Kingdom Citizens Association (Paphos) Ltd.
- Utilities: water and electricity are metered in Cyprus and charged on a monthly or two monthly basis. The cost of utilities is very low compared with the UK and many properties have solar water heating systems. Cyprus has no piped gas but bottled gas is widely available.
- Internet domain: cy
- Health: health standards are similar to those in developed countries. Medical care is provided by government services (free or at reduced costs) and by the private medical sector. Cyprus (not including Northern Cyprus) allows access to free medical help via the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) system to EU citizens who are visiting, employed by a UK company or self-employed within the UK. See the EHIC website for details. This does not apply to people moving to Cyprus or working for a foreign employer or to any non-EU nationals. Further information about healthcare provisions for permanent residents is available from the Ministry of Health (Cyprus).
- Laws and customs: Cyprus enforces a strict zero tolerance policy on drugs. As Cyprus is divided, ensure you do not cause any misunderstandings and are sensitive to military and political issues. For example, do not photograph or loiter near command posts or barracks. Same-sex relationships are tolerated and in many cases accepted, especially by the younger generation, but public displays of affection by same-sex couples are not as common as in the UK.
Economy and finance
- Currency: Euro (€), Turkish lira used in the north.
- Type of economy: Cyprus is a divided island, the southern area controlled by the Cyprus Government and the northern Turkish Cypriot administered area which calls itself. Both north and south have an open free-market and service based economy.
- Health of economy: the economy of the southern Republic of Cyprus is dominated by the service sector; predominantly tourism, financial services and real estate. The economic performance of these sectors is subject to economic conditions in Western Europe. It is generally a stable and prosperous economy. The northern Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is partially reliant on Turkish economic support due to the trade embargo on its ports.
- Unemployment rate: 6%
- Main exports: citrus fruits, cheese and potatoes, pharmaceutical products.
Culture
- People: Greek 77%, Turkish 18%, others 5%
- Major religion: Most Cypriots in the south are Greek Orthodox Christians, along with a small percentage of other Christian minorities. In the north most Cypriots are Muslims.
- History: See BBC Timeline: Cyprus.
- Local etiquette: when meeting, shake hands and smile. Many Turkish Cypriots lower their eyes when greeting as a sign of respect and very religious Muslim men do not shake hands with women. If invited to a Cypriot’s house, bring a consumable gift, such as pastries, but do not give white lilies as these are used at funerals.
Politics
- Type of government: Republic. The southern part of Cyprus, headed by a Greek Cypriot president, is a full member of the EU. The northern Turkish Republic of Northern CyprusTurkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is led by a Turkish Cypriot president and is only recognised by Turkey.
- Major political parties: southern area under government control: Democratic Party; Democratic Rally; European Party; Fighting Democratic Movement; Green Party of Cyprus. Northern area administered by Turkish Cypriots: Communal Democracy Party; Cyprus Socialist Party; Democratic Party; Freedom and Reform Party; National Unity Party.
Travel advice
Find the latest travel advice and a traveller’s checklist on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) website.
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