The active population in figures

Note: (e) Estimated data

Working conditions

Legal weekly duration

Working hours vary according to sector and profession. The maximum number of working hours is fixed by collective agreement. It usually ranges beetween 38 and 40 hours.

Retirement age

63 or 65 if the insured person does not meet the conditions to go on retirement at the age of 63.

Working contracts

A written contract is not obligatory but it is now common to have one.
There are several types of contracts and Cyprus does not have a uniform contract of employment system.
The most common contract is the contract with an indefinite term. Temporary employment is uncommon though seasonal work exists mainly in tourism and agriculture.

Cost of labor

Minimum wage

The minimum wage is 700 EUR. Minimum wages are set by industry, by collective agreement or by decree.

Average wage

The average wage ranges between EUR 1,000 and 1,100.

Social contributions

Social security contributions paid by employers: Employer contribution is 6.3% and 4% for the State.
Social security contributions paid by employees: Employees are required to make social insurance contributions at a rate of 6.3%.

Social partners

Social dialogue and involvement of social partners

Employees are protected from dismissal because of union membership.
Collective bargaining power is ensured and allowed (article 26 of the Constitution) and numerous trade unions exist.

Unions

Cyprus Workers' Federation
Pan-Cyprian Federation of Labour
Democratic Labour Federation of Cyprus

Unionization rate

The unionization rate is quite high in Cyprus, reaching 68%.

Labor regulation bodies

Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance
Human Resource Development Authority