London, United Kingdom. More than 350 Cypriot professionals living and working in the UK attended Minds in Cyprus events in Birmingham and London this week, aimed at connecting expatriates with employment opportunities and business prospects in Cyprus. The events were held on June 22 in Birmingham and June 23 in London, one year after the initiative was launched in London by President Nikos Christodoulides.
Companies and vacancies presented
A total of 24 Cyprus-based companies and organisations participated in the events, presenting more than 110 highly skilled job vacancies. The positions covered sectors including technology, fintech, financial and professional services, research and innovation, and energy.
Government representation and objectives
Deputy Minister to the President Irene Piki, who represented the government, outlined progress made during the initiative’s first year. She highlighted employment opportunities, support mechanisms and incentives available to Cypriots considering a return to the island.
Piki said the initiative seeks to make Cyprus “a serious and credible option” for diaspora professionals evaluating their next career move.
“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,” she said.
Event formats and focus
The London event took the form of a career fair, while Birmingham hosted a roundtable discussion focused on the Cypriot economy, labour market needs and strengthening ties with the Cypriot diaspora.
Economic outlook and support platform
Piki pointed to Cyprus’ recent economic performance, including strong growth rates, low unemployment and upgrades by international credit rating agencies. She said these developments have increased demand for skilled professionals, particularly in high-value sectors.
Particular emphasis was placed on the Opportunities for Talent platform, through which more than 700 professionals have already registered and over 330 specialised vacancies have been posted by Cyprus-based employers.
Tax incentives for returnees
Officials also highlighted tax incentives aimed at encouraging the return of skilled Cypriots from abroad. These include a 25 per cent income tax exemption for Cypriots who have spent at least seven years overseas, as well as an existing 50 per cent exemption scheme for eligible cases.
