Are you a refugee in Cyprus and looking for work or training opportunities?

FAQ

• I am waiting for a decision on my asylum application. Can I use the platform?

  The HelpRefugeesWork platform is only for persons who have refugee status or subsidiary protection in the Republic of Cyprus.
  It is not possible to register if you reside in Cyprus as an asylum-seeker, or under any other status, for example, EU citizenship, working visa, student visa or tourist visa.
  It is not possible to register if you have refugee status or other form of protection granted in another country.

• Do I need to submit any documents in order to use the platform?

  You do not need to present or submit any documents in order to register and use the platform.
  However, as a job-seeker, you will come in contact with employers who will want to make sure that they can hire you. It will be important for you to present the documents that prove your status as a refugee or a beneficiary of subsidiary protection to your future employer.
  Such documents include: the letter you received informing  you that you have been granted international protection  and your Residence Permit (ID card).

• Are there any restrictions for refugees to be able to work in Cyprus?

  Having refugee status or  subsidiary protection allows you to work under the  same conditions that apply for Cypriot citizens.

• Can this platform help me to find a job in another country?

  No. HelpRefugeesWork aims to connect refugees with employers and training providers operating in the Republic of Cyprus only.

  NOTE: Please remember that working legally in another country requires you to apply and secure an appropriate visa by that country’s authorities.

• Can I exercise my profession in Cyprus?

  It depends on whether or not it is a regulated profession in Cyprus. You can find the list with all the regulated professions in Cyprus, here.

  If your profession is regulated you will need to apply for registration with the appointed professional body, as indicated in the above list. Each professional body has set conditions to be met by applicants in order to approve their registration. Such conditions might include greek language use requirements, academic qualifications, previous work experience, and practical training.

  If your profession is not regulated, you can practice it immediately without further restrictions.

  If you have any further inquiries about practicing your profession in Cyprus, please contact us.

• Can I participate in vocational training programs?

  If you have refugee status or  subsidiary protection, you can participate in vocational trainings under the same conditions that apply to Cypriot citizens. Under the section “Training Programs” in this platform you can find out about available training opportunities. By creating a profile in the platform, you can stay informed about training programs that match your needs.

  NOTE: Some training programs are available for free, while others require fees. If you are unemployed and registered with the Labour Office, you can ask for a training referral document. With this document you can apply to participate in one training program per year for free, provided that it is eligible for subsidization by Human Resources Development Authority (HRDA or ΑΝΑΔ).

• Who provides vocational training in Cyprus?

  Vocational training is provided by a large number of public and private organizations, such as colleges, training institutions, consulting companies, and local authorities.

  The Human Resources Development Authority of Cyprus (HRDA or ΑΝΑΔ) and the Cyprus Productivity Centre (CPC or ΚΕΠΑ) are two major sources of fully or partially subsidized training programs.

• Which subjects are taught as part of vocational training programs offered in Cyprus?

  Existing vocational training programs cover a wide array of subjects, professions and skills, ranging from basic levels through to specialized technical areas.

• Are all vocational training programs provided in the Greek language?

  Vocational training is provided by a large number of public and private organizations, such as colleges, training institutions, consulting companies, and local authorities.

  The majority of vocational trainings in Cyprus are provided in Greek. However, a number of programs are offered in English.