Coming to a new country as an international student is never easy. I arrived in Cyprus in February 2024, and over the past 1.5 years, I have experienced many realities that most online articles never talk about.
This article is not written to discourage anyone. It is written to share the real challenges, mindset issues, job struggles, and survival strategies that new international students face in Cyprus—especially those coming from developing countries like Bangladesh.
The First Shock: Questions That Demotivate New Students
Almost every new student experiences the same situation. When people from your own country who arrived earlier find out that you are new in Cyprus, the first reaction is often discouraging rather than supportive.
Common questions include:
- Why did you come to Cyprus?
- How much money did you spend?
- Which agency brought you here?
- Did you take loans?
- Have you found a job yet?
Behind these questions often lie doubt, jealousy, and a subtle form of humiliation. Some people directly say things like:
“You wasted your money. Cyprus is no longer good. There are no jobs anymore.”
Many established migrants forget that they were once new too.
Psychological Pressure on New International Students
Most new students arrive in Cyprus under extreme pressure:
- Family expectations
- Loan burden
- Visa rejections from other countries
- Limited financial background
For many students, Cyprus is the last hope, not a luxury choice. Middle-class families often struggle to manage the expenses, and the emotional stress is heavy.
Unfortunately, very few people talk positively. Anyone who does is often labeled as an “agent” or “broker,” even though the intention may simply be to motivate.
Job Reality in Cyprus: The Truth No One Explains Properly
Yes, it is true that:
- Student numbers have increased
- Job vacancies are fewer than before
But this is not only a Cyprus problem. Which European country currently offers easy jobs for new students—Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland, or the Netherlands?
The reality:
👉 The first year is a struggle everywhere.
Students must mentally prepare for at least 6–12 months of hardship.
Survival Strategy for New Students in Cyprus
Based on real experience, here are some practical tips:
1. Accept Any Honest Work at the Beginning
In the first months, do not be selective. Any legal job is better than no income.
2. Delivery Jobs Can Save You
Many students survive through delivery work using bicycles. Platforms like Wolt, Bolt, or Foody help students cover living expenses.
Some students earn over €1,500–€2,000 per month through delivery alone.
Even after expenses, saving money is possible.
Important Tip Most Students Ignore
Register a SIM card in your own passport name as soon as possible.
This helps later when applying for:
- Driving license
- Official documents
- Job verification
Small steps early make life easier later.
The Turning Point: One Positive Voice Matters
In my early days, after Friday prayers at a Bangladeshi shop near the mosque, many people told me:
- Cyprus was a mistake
- No PR
- No future
But one senior brother said something different:
“Cyprus is one year of struggle. If you survive one year, life becomes easier.”
That single sentence kept me going.
One year later, I realized how powerful that advice was.
My Current Situation
Today, I work with Foody delivery. By the grace of Allah, I can support myself and my family. Life is stable, and the struggle phase has passed.
Is Cyprus Worth It for International Students?
Cyprus is good for:
- Students who can struggle for 1 year
- People willing to work hard
- Those with realistic expectations
Cyprus is not ideal for:
- People expecting easy jobs
- Those unwilling to struggle initially
Final Honest Advice to New Students
Cyprus is not perfect. But no country is.
If you arrive with:
- Patience
- Hard work
- Strong mindset
Then survival—and success—is possible.
Allah brings everyone with a purpose. Rizq comes, but effort is required.
FAQs
Is it hard to find a job in Cyprus as a student?
Yes, especially in the first few months. Persistence is key.
Can students survive without a job initially?
It is difficult but manageable if expenses are controlled.
Is delivery work legal for students in Cyprus?
Yes, many students legally work in delivery services.
How long does the struggle phase last?
Usually 6–12 months.
If You want to know about student salary in Cyprus, Click here
