Cyprus launches Minds in Cyprus initiative to repatriate skilled Diaspora
- aina246
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
Minds in Cyprus is a flagship program launched by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to attract highly skilled Cypriot professionals living abroad back to the island. Officially unveiled in London by President Nikos Christodoulides and supported by Invest Cyprus and the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, this "brain gain" initiative aims to reconnect diaspora talent with emerging opportunities across sectors such as technology, financial services, energy, healthcare, and innovation.
The core problem of brain drain in Cyprus intensified following the 2012–13 European and Cypriot financial crises, when the collapse of the Cyprus banking sector, the introduction of capital controls and the recession created acute economic problems across the island.
This led to negative net migration: in 2012 net migration was approximately –3,848 people, and in 2013 reached a low of about –7,013, reflecting more Cypriots emigrating than immigrating. This marked a critical turning point, as Cyprus shifted from net population gain to outright population loss for the first time in decades.
Economic hardship, rising youth unemployment, and scarce career opportunities pushed many educated Cypriots to seek their fortunes abroad.
The Minds in Cyprus initiative represents a strategic effort to leverage the skills and experiences of the Cypriot diaspora, fostering innovation and competitiveness within the national economy.
The key objectives of the Minds in Cyprus Plan include:
Enhanced tax incentives: The government of Cyprus offers a 25% income tax exemption, up to € 25,000 annually, for returning professionals who have worked abroad for at least seven years post-graduation.
Digital information portal: An online platform will provide information on employment opportunities, housing, education, healthcare and entrepreneurship.
Talent and job-matching platform: To bridge the gap between returning professionals and local employers, a dedicated platform will facilitate connections, particularly in specialized sectors where demand for skilled workers is high.
Family reintegration support: Recognizing the personal aspects of relocation, the Minds in Cyprus plan includes access to education for children, Greek language lessons, and social integration tools to support families in their return journey.
Cyprus's economy returned to growth following COVID, with a real GDP growth rate of 3.4% in 2024 and unemployment dropping to 5%. Tourism arrivals have rebounded and are now over 4,000,000 arrivals annually. The technology sector has grown rapidly due to the relocation of some important tech firms to Cyprus and now accounts for 10% of GDP. These and other sectors have led to a growing demand for specialized skills.
For more information on the initiative and to explore opportunities in Cyprus, please visit the official website of Minds in Cyprus: https://www.mindsincyprus.com/
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