Student Jobs in Cyprus
Students from outside the European Union (EU), like India and Pakistan, can work part-time in the Republic of Cyprus. They can work only in jobs on a government list, and only after their first semester (half a study year). Before you start, the Department of Labour must approve your work contract.
Work Regulations for International Students
Legal Right to Work
- Work only after your first semester.
- Only in jobs on the government list.
- Up to 20 hours a week while classes run, 38 in holidays.
- Before you start, the Department of Labour (its District Labour Office near you) must approve your contract.
Types of Student Work
Approved employment contract
Sign a contract with one employer and take it to the District Labour Office, part of the Department of Labour. Attach your study timetable. Once approved, you can start.
Special Cases
Students of hotel and food studies may do training in hotels and leisure centres from 1 June to 15 October.
If your degree needs an internship, your employer and university sign a written agreement that goes to the Department of Labour.
You may do small housework jobs in private homes now and then. You carry a special form that lists each family you work for.
Popular Job Opportunities for Students
A 2026 government order lists the jobs students may take. You cannot work in other jobs.
- Kitchen assistant
- Cleaner
- Waiter or bartender in restaurants and leisure centres (fun or sports centres)
- Hotel receptionist and room cleaner
- Retail salesperson
- Loader (carries goods), petrol station worker or car wash worker
- Building cleaner
- Farm, animal care or work with fish and sea food
- Students of computers (ICT): assistant programmer, systems analyst, or software or web designer.
- Master's and PhD students: research work at their university.
- Internships when the degree needs one.
How to Find Student Jobs in Cyprus
How to get a job approved.
Your university
Ask your international office about internships and research posts.
Effective Job Search Strategies
- Your valid residence permit (the card that lets you stay in Cyprus to study).
- A signed employment contract.
- A certificate of full-time study and your timetable.
Common Challenges & Solutions
Only jobs on the list
A job that is not on the government list cannot be approved.
Solution:
Check that the job is on that list before you sign.
Work and Study
Your studies come first. Your residence permit is renewed only if you keep studying full-time.
Your working hours must not clash with your classes.
Week Planning for Success
Optimal Hours
- Up to 20 hours a week:The limit during classes.
- Up to 38 hours a week:The limit in holidays and breaks between classes.
Warning Signs
Consider reducing work hours if you experience:
- Working hours that clash with your timetable.
- Working without an approved contract.
- Falling grades, which you need to renew your residence permit.
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