The economy of Cyprus is based almost exclusively on the tertiary sector. The service sector, including tourism, accounts for 80% of GDP, and the demand for skilled labour is increasing. So it is not difficult to find a job in Cyprus, the problem is the generally low salaries.
Jobs in Cyprus
To find a job, you can use the usual tools: job search websites, Linkedin, recruitment agencies, etc. Once you have submitted your application to employers and employment agencies, you have two options:
- you wait for someone to contact you
- you go to the island and inform those to whom you sent your CV about your arrival date to organize interviews
Once you arrive on the island, you can also contact the public employment offices, which have offices in various cities and will help you find work. In the meantime, keep sending your applications and you will see that the results are immediate. It must be said that it is easier to find a job in big cities like Limassol or Nicosia, but here the cost of living is even higher.
The problem is the salaries, which in some cases are hard to live on, considering that a studio apartment can cost €400/500 a month and the salary €900, do the math. Many Cypriots themselves do not have a housing problem. (because they still live with their families), they do not accept these wage levels.
A survey commissioned by the Cyprus Business Association found that many local companies are currently struggling to find employees and that some 9,000 positions are currently unfilled. Interestingly, this staff shortage contrasts with an increase in unemployment. The number of registered unemployed in Cyprus is currently around 11,000 because Cypriots refuse to fill these positions and accept these salaries. The only ones who accept this salary level are generally Eastern European workers.
Most employers demand educational qualifications and experience, but offer very low wages in return, so most young Cypriots with qualifications prefer to emigrate to other countries where their professionalism is economically recognized.
To counteract this, the Cypriot government has revised its policy on attracting highly qualified personnel from third countries and those who add value to domestic companies. As a result, both foreign companies with a presence in Cyprus and Cypriot companies can more easily hire non-EU foreign personnel.
Most in-demand jobs in Cyprus
The sectors that currently offer the greatest employment opportunities are:
- Financial sector (accountants, brokers, professionals in trade, banking, etc.), the financial sector is one of the engines of the island’s economy. The greatest opportunities are in Limassol and Nicosia. This is one of the few sectors where qualified people can earn good salaries.
- Tourism sector, (hotels, restaurants, bars, etc.) is the other engine of the Cypriot economy, along with the financial sector. This sector employs many foreign workers, but wages are quite low
- IT sector, (developers, cybersecurity, etc.), qualified people can earn good salaries, as in the financial sector
- Construction sector, (bricklayers, carpenters, floor layers, etc.) is one of the sectors where the need for foreign personnel is the greatest, but salaries are low
Work culture in Cyprus
Working conditions are generally not bad. Most Cypriots are friendly and understanding, but of course it depends on how you deal with them. Cypriots are used to working with foreigners often, so English is widely spoken.
The work culture varies greatly among sectors, but there are also some characteristics common to all sectors, such as their laxity. Cypriots, like all good Mediterranean people, do not deny themselves and tend to be very relaxed and stress-free in the workplace.
There is usually a good balance between work and personal life. However, there is also a lack of protection in the workplace (no unions).
Jobs in Cyprus, conclusion
Life in Cyprus is good. The cost of living is low, while the quality of life is quite good. The climate is excellent, warm in the summer months and mild in winter with some rain.
The island is generally very safe, with a low crime rate. Cypriots are generally hospitable and open-minded. English is widely spoken and it is possible to take Greek courses for foreigners offered by the government.
Cyprus is a great place to live, but only if you are financially independent. On the other hand, if you intend to go to work to earn a decent amount of money, I will tell you right away that it is not easy to find a good job that will allow you to earn a good income.
