Employment Law in Cyprus: Your Essential Guide

Employment Law in Cyprus: Your Essential Guide

Employment law in Cyprus is thoughtfully structured to ensure a fair balance between the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees. Familiarizing yourself with these legal frameworks not only promotes compliance but also cultivates a positive and productive workplace environment.

Employment Contracts: Defining the Relationship

While a written employment contract is not legally mandatory in Cyprus, it is strongly encouraged to clearly outline the expectations between employers and employees. These contracts can be either fixed-term or indefinite and typically cover important aspects such as job title, salary, working hours, leave entitlements, and grounds for termination. A well-defined contract lays the foundation for a successful working relationship.

Employee Rights and Workplace Protections

Working Hours and Rest Periods
In Cyprus, the standard full-time workweek consists of 40 hours, typically distributed across five or six days. Employees can expect the following rights:
• An uninterrupted rest period of at least 11 hours within any 24-hour period.
• A minimum of one full day (24 hours) of rest each week.
• Annual Leave

Employees who complete a minimum of 48 weeks of work in a year are entitled to:

• 20 days of paid leave for a five-day workweek.
• 24 days of paid leave for a six-day workweek.
Sick Leave

For the first three days of sick leave, employers are responsible for covering pay. From the fourth day onward, the Social Insurance Fund steps in, offering a percentage of the employee’s insurable earnings.

Maternity Leave

Expectant mothers are entitled to a generous 18 weeks of maternity leave, which can begin up to nine weeks prior to the due date, ensuring the well-being of both mother and child.

Navigating Employment Termination

When it comes to terminating employment, the process must adhere to the Termination of Employment Law. Valid grounds for dismissal include:
• Redundancy
• Unsatisfactory performance
• Gross misconduct

Employees have the right to notice periods and may also receive severance pay, depending on the circumstances surrounding their termination.

Resolving Employment Disputes

Disagreements in the workplace, such as wrongful termination or claims of unfair treatment, can be addressed through the Labour Disputes Court, which specializes in handling employment-related legal issues. This court provides a fair avenue for resolving conflicts and protecting employee rights.

Conclusion

A solid understanding of employment law in Cyprus is crucial for both employers and employees to effectively manage their rights and obligations. If you seek personalized legal advice tailored to your specific situation, don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of employment law with confidence and clarity.