Employment Regulations for International Students in Cyprus
Foreign nationals from non-European Union (EU) countries who are registered as full-time students at recognized higher education institutions in Cyprus are permitted to engage in paid employment. This right is subject to specific conditions governed by the Ministry of Labour and the Civil Registry and Migration Department. For the 2025/2026 academic period, the regulations balance the primary purpose of the stay—education—with the opportunity to gain work experience and support living costs.
EU nationals studying in Cyprus enjoy the same rights as Cypriot citizens regarding employment and do not require specific work permits, though they must still register with the relevant authorities if staying longer than 90 days.
Eligibility and Waiting Period
Third-country nationals are not immediately eligible to work upon arrival. Under current 2025 regulations, students must have completed at least six months of residence and study in Cyprus before they are entitled to seek employment. Additionally, the student must maintain "full-time" status, which typically requires enrollment in at least 15 to 30 ECTS credits per semester.
- Residence Status: Must hold a valid Temporary Residence Permit (Student Visa).
- Academic Standing: Must have proof of attendance and satisfactory progress from their institution.
- Employment Contract: A formal contract must be signed between the student and the employer.
Working Hours and Permitted Sectors
The number of hours a student can work is strictly regulated to ensure academic performance remains the priority. For the 2025/2026 period, the following limits apply:
- During Semesters: Maximum of 20 hours per week.
- During Holidays: Up to 38 hours per week (applicable during the summer break and Christmas/Easter periods).
Approved Sectors of Employment
Non-EU students are restricted to specific sectors of the economy. These sectors are designated by the Department of Labour and currently include:
- Hotels and Catering: Waitstaff, kitchen assistants, and receptionists.
- Trade and Services: Petrol station attendants, car wash employees, and retail assistants.
- Healthcare: Caregivers in nursing homes (requires relevant qualifications).
- Agriculture and Food: Seasonal farm work and food delivery services.
- Technical Services: Repairs and maintenance (subject to specific trade rules).
Administrative Procedures and Fees
To begin working, students and their employers must follow a specific administrative process. The employer must obtain a stamped employment contract from the District Labour Office. This document confirms that the employment meets the legal requirements for international students.
Social Insurance and Wages
Every student worker must be registered for Social Insurance. Contributions are deducted from the gross salary, providing the student with coverage for industrial accidents and healthcare via the General Healthcare System (GeSY). As of early 2025, the national minimum wage in Cyprus is set at approximately 1,000 EUR ($1,080 USD, Jan 2026) for full-time employees, which is adjusted pro-rata for student part-time hours.
Key administrative costs for students include:
- Student Permit Renewal: Approximately 70 EUR ($76 USD, Jan 2026).
- Alien Registration Certificate (ARC): 70 EUR ($76 USD, Jan 2026) for initial registration.
Note: Failure to adhere to the 20-hour limit or working in unapproved sectors can lead to the revocation of the student residence permit and potential deportation.
Transitioning to Post-Study Work
Upon successful completion of a degree program (Bachelor, Master, or PhD) at a recognized Cypriot institution, graduates may apply for a Post-Study Work Permit. This allows for a stay of up to 12 months to seek employment or start a business. Once a graduate secures a professional position related to their field of study, they must transition to a standard "Third-Country National Employee" permit.
Further official details can be found via the Civil Registry and Migration Department and the Department of Labour.
