Northern Cyprus changes employment rules for foreign workers

Changes to the regulations of the law governing the employment of foreign citizens have come into effect in Northern Cyprus.

According to the new rules, the conditions for changing employers (horizontal transfer) have been modified. While previously a foreign worker could change their place of employment after 6 months, it is now only possible after one year of working for a single employer, and provided the employee did not resign of their own volition.

If a worker leaves their job before completing one year, they are required to leave the country within 40 days of the termination of the employment contract.

The deadlines for work permit renewals have also changed. Previously, an application could be submitted within 90 days after the permit expired; this period has now been reduced to 40 days. Renewal documents can be filed up to two months before the current permit expires.

If a worker fails to apply for a renewal within 40 days of the permit's expiration, they will be considered to be in the country illegally and may face deportation.

Furthermore, a maximum employment period of 4 years has been established for workers from third countries in Northern Cyprus. After this period, they must leave the country and remain outside for at least 45 days before they can submit a new application for entry and employment.

The Ministry of Labor and Social Security stated that the changes are aimed at strengthening control over the labor market and combating illegal employment.