**Strong Interest in Cyprus Return Opportunities at UK Minds in Cyprus Events**
More than 350 Cypriot professionals residing in the UK attended the recent Minds in Cyprus events held in Birmingham and London, aimed at fostering connections between expatriates and potential employment and business opportunities in Cyprus. This initiative, which was launched a year ago in London by President Nikos Christodoulides, returned to the UK with events taking place on June 22 in Birmingham and June 23 in London.
The events featured participation from 24 Cyprus-based companies and organizations, which collectively presented over 110 job vacancies in various high-demand sectors, including technology, fintech, financial and professional services, research and innovation, and energy. The focus of the initiative is to encourage skilled Cypriots to consider returning to their homeland or collaborating with businesses in Cyprus.
Irene Piki, the Deputy Minister to the President, represented the government at the events and highlighted the progress made since the initiative's inception. She emphasized the various employment opportunities, support mechanisms, and incentives available to Cypriots contemplating a return to Cyprus. Piki stated, “The government is not simply trying to bring people back, but to create the conditions that allow the idea of returning to Cyprus, or collaborating with Cyprus, to become a realistic option.”
During the London event, which took the format of a career fair, attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with employers and learn about available positions. Conversely, the Birmingham event featured a roundtable discussion that focused on the Cypriot economy, labor market needs, and the importance of strengthening ties with the Cypriot diaspora.
Piki pointed out Cyprus’ recent economic achievements, which include robust growth rates, low unemployment, and positive upgrades from international credit rating agencies. These factors have contributed to an increased demand for skilled professionals, particularly in high-value sectors.
A key component of the initiative is the Opportunities for Talent platform, which has already seen over 700 professionals register and more than 330 specialized vacancies posted by employers in Cyprus. This platform serves as a vital resource for both job seekers and employers looking to connect.
In addition to job opportunities, the government has introduced tax incentives to encourage the return of skilled Cypriots from abroad. These include a 25% income tax exemption for individuals who have spent at least seven years overseas, along with an existing 50% exemption scheme for eligible cases.
The Minds in Cyprus initiative also encompasses practical support measures designed to facilitate the return process. These measures include expedited processing of professional licensing and qualification recognition applications, assistance with residency and work permits for spouses and partners, and support for families relocating to Cyprus.
Representatives from the Tax Department and the Research and Innovation Foundation were present at the events, providing valuable information on taxation, funding programs, research opportunities, and innovation support schemes.
Organized by the government in collaboration with Invest Cyprus, the initiative has garnered support from the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve), Cypriots in the City, and various participating businesses and organizations. Minds in Cyprus is part of a broader government strategy aimed at attracting talent, enhancing the competitiveness of the economy, and leveraging the expertise of Cypriots living abroad.
As the initiative continues to evolve, it aims to solidify Cyprus as a viable option for professionals considering their next career move, fostering a stronger connection between the diaspora and their homeland.