Cyprus is experiencing a serious labour shortage, with the domestic workforce no longer able to meet the needs of a growing economy. As unemployment remains below 5%, businesses are increasingly turning to third-country nationals to fill both skilled and unskilled roles.
Speaking to “Mesimeri kai Kati” on Sigma, General Secretary of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KEVE), PhiloKypros Roussounides, described the issue as urgent. “There are simply no Cypriots available to work. If a business is to continue growing and creating jobs, it has no option but to bring in foreign workers,” he said.
According to Roussounides, efforts by the Labour Ministry to streamline work permit approvals have made a significant difference. What previously took eight to ten months can now be processed far more efficiently, offering businesses faster access to vital staff. He praised the Ministry for recognising the importance of accelerating these procedures.
The shortage of local talent has led some companies to focus not just on recruitment from abroad, but also on enticing Cypriots to return from overseas. Government incentives, including attractive tax benefits for professionals who have lived abroad for more than seven years, are already generating interest.
“There are people reaching out to the Chamber asking for details,” Roussounides said, adding that while brain gain efforts are positive, third-country recruitment remains the most immediate solution to the Cyprus labour shortage.
Also read: Unemployment low in Cyprus as firms offer perks to attract staff
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel.
