Many people planning to come to Cyprus on a work permit visa trust agents blindly. Unfortunately, a large number of workers later realize that they were victims of agent fraud—only after arriving in Cyprus.
This article explains how Cyprus work visa fraud happens, based on real situations, so future workers can stay alert and protect themselves.
The Biggest Hidden Truth About Cyprus Work Permits
Most workers coming to Cyprus on a work permit do not know one critical fact:
👉 The visa sponsorship cost is usually paid by the employer, not the worker.
However, many agents—especially those operating from third-world countries—hide this information from workers.
How Agents Charge €6,000–€7,000 Per Visa
Agents often tell workers:
- “Work visa cost is very high”
- “Cyprus employer is charging money”
- “This is normal procedure”
Without proper knowledge, workers end up paying €6,000–€7,000 for a work visa—without knowing the real arrangement.
The Agent–Employer Deal Behind the Scenes
In many cases, the fraud works like this:
- A Cypriot employer says: “If you can arrange 5 workers, I will pay you €20,000. After arrival, I will release them.”
- The agent then:
- Collects €7,000 from each worker
- Total collected: €35,000
- Pays employer: €20,000
- Keeps profit: €15,000
The workers are never informed that the employer plans to release them.
What Happens After Workers Arrive in Cyprus?
Once workers arrive:
- The employer releases them
- No job is provided
- Legal work status becomes unclear
- Workers are left desperate and confused
Many workers:
- Cannot find new jobs
- Lose all savings
- Fall into financial and mental crisis
This is where the real suffering begins.
Why Workers Become Trapped
Workers often:
- Sell land or assets
- Take loans
- Borrow money from relatives
After arrival, they realize:
- The job never existed
- The agent disappears
- The employer refuses responsibility
At this point, returning home becomes almost impossible.
Important Warning for Future Workers
⚠️ This article is not written to create fear.
It is written to create awareness.
If you are planning to come to Cyprus on a work permit:
✔ Always talk directly with the employer
✔ Ask for written job confirmation
✔ Verify who is paying the visa cost
✔ Be suspicious of very high agent fees
✔ Do not trust verbal promises
What Workers Should Do Before Coming to Cyprus
- Ask for employer contact details
- Confirm job terms directly
- Avoid agents who refuse transparency
- Get everything in writing
Being careful before arrival can save years of regret.
Advice
Cyprus work permits are real—but fraud around them is also real.
Blind trust in agents can destroy lives.
Informed decisions can protect them.
👉 Always verify before you travel.
FAQs
Is Cyprus work visa fraud common?
Unfortunately, yes—especially through unregulated agents.
Do workers usually pay for Cyprus work permits?
In many cases, employers cover the cost.
Can agents legally charge high fees?
Excessive hidden fees are a major red flag.
How can workers protect themselves?
By verifying employer details and avoiding secretive agents.
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