The Ministry of Labour and the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Industry signed a protocol

On 30 October 2025 in Northern Cyprus, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Industry signed a cooperation protocol regarding the issuance of work permits for foreign nationals.

The protocol, prepared within the framework of the Law on Work Permits for Foreign Nationals and the related regulation on procedures and methods for professional organisations, aims to combat informal employment, ensure the processing of permits through the chamber’s system, and regulate the labour market involving foreign workers in the TRNC.

Minister of Labour and Social Security Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu stated that during the preliminary evaluation of applications for hiring foreign nationals, the ministry will closely cooperate with the chamber, and the work permit process will remain under the ministry’s supervision. He noted that under the agreement, the necessary financial guarantees will be deposited directly to the ministry, and the legal framework is ready, with implementation now beginning. The Minister also highlighted the importance of the industrial sector and reminded of the ongoing support for employers: all women employers and 80% of male employers are covered by the incentive system.

The document also provides for occupational safety and health training for chamber members to be held in November. Chairman of the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Industry Ali Kamacıoğlu described the protocol as an important step towards more efficient service for members and better coordination with the ministry.