Many international students now regret coming to Cyprus due to recent changes in student work permissions, especially for those who arrived after December 2024.
No Legal Work Permission at the Beginning
Students arriving after December 2024 are facing a serious issue:
👉 they are not being granted work permission during their initial period.
Without work permission:
- Students cannot legally work
- Income opportunities become extremely limited
- Survival becomes difficult after arrival
Too Many Students, Too Few Jobs
Cyprus has recently become one of the top student visa destinations worldwide, ranking among the top three countries issuing student visas.
As a result:
- Student numbers increased rapidly
- Job availability did not increase at the same rate
- Competition for part-time jobs became intense
This imbalance is one of the biggest regrets for new international students.
Savings Run Out Within 3 Months
Most students coming to Cyprus are from middle-class families.
They usually arrive with savings meant to last 2–3 months.
However:
- Living costs are high
- No legal income is available
- Savings finish quickly
After that:
- Families are often unable to send more money
- Financial pressure increases significantly
Delivery Jobs Are Not Immediately Possible
Many students believe delivery work is an easy solution.
In reality, it is not accessible in the first 6 months.
Why?
- Delivery platforms require a valid driving license
- To apply for a learner’s license, students need 6 months of legal stay proof
- Without this, delivery IDs cannot be issued legally
Some students try to rent IDs, but this leads to:
- Police problems
- Fines
- Confiscation of bicycles
- Legal trouble
This situation creates fear and instability for new students.
Academic Pressure Increases the Stress
Colleges closely monitor attendance.
If students fail to attend classes regularly:
- Colleges issue warnings
- Suspension threats are given
- Visa status becomes uncertain
This puts students in a constant state of stress, balancing survival and academic requirements.
Why Some Students Leave Cyprus After the First Year
Due to:
- No work permission
- Financial pressure
- Job scarcity
- Mental stress
Many students leave Cyprus after receiving their ARC card.
Some move to other countries like Serbia or nearby regions, hoping for better opportunities.
⚠️ These decisions are often made under pressure and carry serious risks.
Important Reality Check for New Students
This section is not written to encourage illegal actions.
It is written to highlight the reality many students face so that:
- Future students arrive mentally prepared
- Families understand the risks
- Decisions are made with full awareness
Final Honest Advice
If you are planning to come to Cyprus:
- Do not expect immediate work permission
- Prepare for at least 6–12 months without stable income
- Understand that student life in Cyprus has become more competitive
- Mental strength is essential
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