Expansion of HRDA access
From Monday, April 6, 2026, self-employed individuals in Cyprus are included in the activities of the Human Resource Development Authority (HRDA). According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance, self-employed workers now have the right to access HRDA schemes with funding to participate in training programmes, similar to employed workers.
This expansion aligns with Cyprus’ lifelong learning policy, aiming to enhance skills, support productivity, and strengthen the competitiveness of the economy. It also ensures equal access to training opportunities for all participants in the labour market.
Legal framework and contributions
The inclusion follows the enactment of the Human Resource Development (Amendment) Law 2026 and the approval of the Human Resource Development Authority (Employer and Self-Employed Contribution) Regulations 2026.
Application is mandatory and universal for all self-employed professional categories, with a contribution of 0.5% of insurable earnings, the same as for employed workers. Contributions collected by Social Insurance Services on behalf of the HRDA grant self-employed individuals the right to utilise HRDA schemes with funding.
Encouragement from authorities
The Ministry urged self-employed individuals to take advantage of HRDA training opportunities for professional growth and improved service quality. “The State will continue investing in human resources and skills development, as a foundation for a resilient and competitive economy,” the Ministry stated.
Guides and policy descriptions for HRDA schemes are available on the HRDA website. For further information or clarification, contact HRDA’s Citizen Service Office at 22390300 or via email at [email protected].
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