THE CYPRUS PARLIAMENT ADOPTS REMOTE WORK LEGISLATION

The Parliament of the Republic of Cyprus has passed a law that defines the rights and responsibilities of both remote workers and their employers. The law applies to all private sector employees and local government officials, establishing requirements for remote work.

The law includes a provision stating that remote work can be implemented on a voluntary basis. In this case, an appropriate agreement must be concluded between the employee and the employer.

Furthermore, fundamental principles regarding working from home under exceptional circumstances, such as during a public health crisis, have been approved.

The law stipulates that employers must cover the expenses incurred by employees due to working from home and provide the necessary technical support for remote work.

Additionally, employers are now obligated to inform remote workers about the terms of their employment contract electronically within eight days from the start of their remote work.

The law also incorporates a provision to protect the labor rights of such employees and prohibits any discrimination against a worker who disagrees with working remotely.

Moreover, employers must conduct a written risk assessment related to remote work to ensure the health and safety conditions of employees.

In cases where an employee wishes to work from home due to health risks, but the employer disputes this decision, the employee must undergo a medical examination.

According to the cyprus-mail publication, inspectors, tasked with "ensuring full and effective compliance" with the new law, will evaluate adherence to these provisions.

Failure to comply with the law is punishable by a fine of up to 10,000 euros, and hindering the work of inspectors is subject to imprisonment for up to six months and a fine of up to 10,000 euros.