Employment Law in Cyprus – Protecting Employer & Employee Rights

Employment law is a core practice area of our law firm. With decades of experience handling complex workplace legal matters, our team delivers strategic, practical, and balanced solutions for both employers and employees across Cyprus.

We regularly advise on a wide range of employment law issues, including:

• Unfair dismissal claims
• Redundancy procedures and entitlements
• Drafting and reviewing employment contracts
• Workplace rights and protections
• Trade union participation and disputes

Our employment lawyers offer tailored legal support for individuals and businesses seeking guidance in navigating Cyprus’s dynamic labor law environment.

Cyprus Employment Law – Legal Framework

Cyprus employment law is based on a combination of common law principles and statutory rights. Contract law forms the basis of the employment relationship, with key worker protections provided by legislation such as the Termination of Employment Law and various EU directives implemented into Cypriot law.

The law provides minimum standards on issues such as:

• Working hours and rest periods
• Parental and maternity leave
• Equal pay and non-discrimination
• Minimum wage enforcement
• Valid grounds for dismissal

The Termination of Employment Law (Law 14/67)

One of the most important employment statutes in Cyprus is the Termination of Employment Law, Law 14/67. This law governs:

• The grounds upon which an employee can be lawfully dismissed
• Employee rights in cases of redundancy or unfair dismissal
• Procedures employers must follow before terminating employment
• Compensation for unlawful dismissal

Unjustified dismissal claims can be brought before the Industrial Disputes Tribunal, where employees may be entitled to reinstatement, compensation, or statutory redundancy pay.

Employment Contracts in Cyprus

Employment contracts are freely negotiated between employer and employee, and must comply with minimum legal standards. While written contracts are not mandatory, they are highly recommended for clarity and legal certainty.

Each contract must respect the basic protections afforded by law. For example:

• Working hours must not exceed 48 hours per week (including overtime)
• Maternity leave is set at 20 weeks
• Parental leave rights are guaranteed for both parents
• Equal pay for equal work is legally protected
• Minimum wage is enforced by statutory decree

Any contractual provision that conflicts with statutory rights is deemed void.

Our Contribution to Employment Law Thought Leadership

Our law firm regularly contributes to leading international legal publications on Cyprus employment law. These resources reflect our commitment to staying at the forefront of legal developments and offering clients informed, up-to-date advice.

Visit our blog for expert insights and updates on employment legislation, case law, and HR compliance trends.

Need Advice on Employment Law in Cyprus?

If you’re facing an employment dispute, unfair dismissal, or need help navigating workplace obligations, our experienced legal team is ready to assist.

We provide proactive, strategic legal guidance tailored to your role as an employee or employer. Contact us for:

• Workplace investigations and dispute resolution
• Review of employment and consultancy agreements
• Redundancy planning and risk mitigation
• Advice on termination procedures and employee claims

📩 Contact us today for a confidential consultation on your employment law matter.