Cyprus Work Permits & the Business Facilitation Scheme

Last reviewed: June 2026 · General information only · ~5 min read

How do you get a work permit in Cyprus?

A non-EU national needs a job offer from a Cyprus employer, who then applies for the employment permit. The fastest route is through a company registered under the Business Facilitation Scheme, which can hire highly skilled non-EU staff with simplified procedures.

The headline figures: employer-sponsored · Business Facilitation Scheme min. gross salary commonly cited ~€2,500/month for highly skilled roles · permits typically 1–2 years, renewable.

Who is it for?

This route is for non-EU/EEA nationals with a Cyprus job offer and for foreign-owned companies relocating or hiring skilled staff in Cyprus. EU citizens do not need a work permit; see EU citizens.

The two main paths

1. Standard employment permit

The employer applies to the Department of Labour and Migration, usually demonstrating the role couldn't readily be filled locally. Suited to individual hires across sectors.

2. Business Facilitation Scheme (foreign-interest companies)

Eligible companies of foreign interest can employ third-country nationals in highly skilled roles with streamlined processing, subject to a minimum gross salary (commonly cited around €2,500/month) and a cap on the ratio of foreign to local staff. Family members can usually join with the right to work.

What are the requirements?

  • A registered Cyprus employer (for the Business Facilitation route, registered as a foreign-interest company).
  • An employment contract meeting the relevant salary threshold.
  • Qualifications/experience for highly skilled roles.
  • Clean criminal record, health insurance and valid passport.
Salary thresholds, eligible categories and staff ratios are set by the scheme and change. Your partner adviser confirms current requirements for the employer and role.

What is the process and timeline?

  1. Employer registers (and, for the scheme, obtains foreign-interest company status).
  2. Employer submits the employment permit application with the contract and the candidate's documents.
  3. Approval, entry and biometrics.
  4. Issue of the residence and employment permit. Timing varies by route and application.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get a work permit?
Secure a job offer; the employer applies for the permit. The Business Facilitation Scheme is the fastest path for highly skilled roles.
What is the Business Facilitation Scheme?
A fast-track framework letting foreign-interest companies employ skilled non-EU staff, with a minimum salary (commonly ~€2,500/month gross) and simplified procedures.
Do EU citizens need a permit?
No. They can work freely and register for a yellow slip if staying for more than three months.
Can my family come with me?
Generally yes; under the scheme, family reunification is available and spouses may obtain work access. See family reunification.

Ask about work permits

Tell the assistant about your role or company. It will explain whether a standard permit or the foreign interest company framework appears relevant.

Related routes

EU citizens Digital nomad visa Family reunification Company formation