How to Get a Visa and Work Permit in Cyprus (2025 Edition)

Expanding into Cyprus unlocks access to a dynamic, tech-forward workforce and a gateway to European markets. The island’s business-friendly climate and high standard of living attract founders, remote teams, and global employers eager to scale. But, as with any global move, navigating local requirements is a high-stakes process.

Visa categories, eligibility checks, and sponsorship obligations can create a maze of paperwork and deadlines. Even minor errors or missing documents can delay onboarding, trigger fines, or put your employment plans at risk. Compliance slipups and unfamiliarity with Cyprus’s six main visa types leave both employers and candidates vulnerable to setbacks.

That’s where Deel Immigration comes in. Deel automates assessments, manages compliance, and expedites processing—eliminating the friction from online permit applications. With expert guidance, digital tools, and flat-fee pricing, Deel lets you focus on building your Cyprus team, not deciphering forms. The result? Fast-track hiring, ironclad compliance, and a seamless move into the Cyprus market.

How easy is it to get a work visa in Cyprus?

Obtaining a Cyprus work visa is relatively straightforward thanks to clear eligibility rules and a supportive migration framework.

Are there different types of entry visas and work permits in Cyprus?

Cyprus permits remote workers to stay up to one year under its Digital Nomad Visa program, alongside various employment permit categories suited to different work scenarios. Options include:

• Business Visa: This visa is for entrepreneurs and investors exploring or establishing business operations in Cyprus. Applicants must provide a viable business plan, proof of investment funds, and a clean criminal record. It allows an initial stay of up to 90 days, extendable to 180 days, making it ideal for market research, supplier meetings, or business events.

• Residence & Employment Permit (BCS Permit): This permit is for full-time employees joining a Cyprus-registered employer. It requires a valid work contract, relevant qualifications, and a minimum monthly salary of €1,700. It is issued for up to 2 years and can be renewed, granting long-term residency and work rights.

• Family Reunification Permit: This permit allows spouses and dependent children of primary permit holders to join them in Cyprus. Applicants must show proof of relationship, adequate housing, and comprehensive health insurance. Its validity matches the main permit and can be renewed in line with the sponsor’s status.

• Dependent Visitor Visa: This visa is for dependents of Business Visa holders needing short-term stays of up to 90 days. It requires proof of financial support from the primary visa holder and valid travel insurance, and it cannot be extended while in Cyprus.

See also: Digital Nomad Visas for Remote Work: The Complete 2025 List

Cyprus visa and work-permit eligibility requirements for candidates

Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and meet minimum salary requirements of approximately €1,700/month to qualify for a Cyprus work permit.

For a fast, expert assessment of eligibility—with a clear breakdown of costs—Deel offers a 48-hour visa and work permit evaluation.

See also: Self-Verify Global Employee Visa Eligibility in Minutes

Cyprus visa and work-permit sponsorship criteria for employers

Employers must be registered Cyprus companies with valid tax and social insurance credentials to sponsor visa applications. Your business needs a local legal entity with up-to-date filings, proof of financial viability, and compliance with labor regulations. Large firms, SMEs, and startups can all fulfill these criteria by maintaining active tax numbers and social security contributions.

Engaging an Employer of Record (EOR) can simplify sponsorship obligations by acting as the legal employer on your behalf. The EOR handles entity registration, wage disbursement, social insurance payments, and statutory filings. This approach offloads complex administrative tasks, letting you focus on core operations while ensuring ongoing compliance.

Deel Immigration, a G2 leader in Employer of Record services across 150+ countries, sponsors employees under 200+ visa and permit categories in 40+ regions. With fast, expert visa assessments delivered within 48 hours, real-time application tracking in-app, and transparent flat pricing with no hidden fees, Deel streamlines your Cyprus sponsorship needs. Partner discounts for relocation services and dedicated support for spouse and child visas complete the end-to-end solution.

See also: Easy Visa Sponsorship for Exploring New International Markets

Cyprus work-permit application process

Follow this five-step roadmap to secure your Cyprus work permit.

Step one: Prepare documentation

Prepare all necessary documentation, including a valid passport, proof of qualifications, and employment contract. Applicants should gather original and notarized copies while sponsors draft the contract. Deel’s platform automates document collection and secure upload.
Tip: Scan and upload files early to avoid last-minute delays.

Step two: Company registration

Ensure the sponsoring employer meets Cyprus registration, tax, and social insurance requirements. The company must submit its registration certificate, tax clearance, and bank statements. Deel verifies sponsor credentials instantly and guides any missing filings.
Tip: Confirm social insurance contributions are current before submission.

Step three: Application submission

Submit the completed application to the Civil Registry and Migration Department or relevant authority. Applicants sign consent forms and sponsors file online or in person. Deel’s system auto-populates forms using your profile data, reducing your manual input.

Step four: Labor market tests

Undergo any required labor market tests or verification processes applicable to the permit category. The Ministry of Labour may advertise vacant roles for 15 days to local candidates. Deel tracks test deadlines and sends automated reminders to both parties.

Tip: Prepare a labor market exemption request early if you meet specialist criteria.

Step five: Wait for processing and receive decision

Await approval and receive the work permit, then comply with any additional registration or residency requirements. Permit holders must register their address with local authorities within 30 days of arrival. Deel notifies you when your permit is ready and coordinates local registrations.

Tip: Track processing with Deel’s in-app dashboard to stay proactive about timelines.

See also: Application Guide for Enterprise Employee Visas

What is the cost of a visa and work permit in Cyprus?

Permit class, applicant nationality, and number of dependents influence the overall cost of a Cypriot work visa. Government filing fees range widely based on the permit type and duration, plus service fees for translations or notarizations.

Is Deel Immigration the best choice for hiring in Cyprus?

Absolutely. Deel Immigration stands out as the premier solution for navigating Cyprus's multifaceted visa landscape, offering unmatched expertise and streamlined processes that save you time and reduce compliance risks. Whether you’re hiring specialized professionals or remote digital nomads, Deel’s platform ensures a seamless immigration experience tailored to Cyprus’s unique requirements.

• End-to-end immigration management covering all Cyprus permit categories
• Fast, free 48-hour visa eligibility assessments to jumpstart your hiring
• Personalized expert support guiding you through sponsorship and documentation
• Real-time application tracking with automated renewal reminders
• Dependent visa support plus exclusive relocation discounts for families

With Deel Immigration, your Cyprus hiring journey is simplified, letting you focus on growing your business. Let’s explore how Deel accelerates your Cyprus workforce onboarding next.

Hire employees in Cyprus faster with Deel Immigration

Hiring in Cyprus can be complex, but Deel Immigration makes it effortless with end-to-end immigration management tailored specifically for the Cyprus market. From verifying sponsorship eligibility of your Cyprus-registered company to handling all government filings, Deel’s experts ensure every step complies with local laws. This comprehensive support drastically reduces typical processing times and administrative burdens.

In addition, Deel offers fast free visa assessments within 48 hours, giving you instant clarity on candidate eligibility and expected costs. Combined with real-time application tracking, you stay informed from submission through approval. Don’t let immigration hurdles delay your hiring goals — book your free consultation with Deel Immigration today and experience a faster, transparent Cyprus hiring process backed by global expertise.