North Cyprus Labour Ministry halts work permit applications for Bangladeshi nationals, imposes sectoral restrictions on Turkmenistan citizens

Lefkosia, TRNC — The North Cyprus Ministry of Labour and Social Security has announced significant changes to work permit regulations as part of efforts to manage the labour market more effectively. 

As of July 28, 2025, all pre-permit applications for Bangladeshi nationals will be suspended until further notice, while sectoral restrictions will be introduced for citizens of Turkmenistan.

In a written statement, the Ministry cited Article 9, Paragraph 2 of the Foreigners’ Work Permits Law, which authorizes the ministry to revise work permit types, durations, and application procedures in line with labour market needs. Based on this authority, several temporary measures will be implemented starting July 28.

Key Measures Announced:

1. Suspension of Work Permit Applications for Bangladeshi Nationals

Effective July 28, all sectors will be closed to new pre-permit applications for Bangladeshi citizens. The ministry stated that this decision was made to maintain balance in the labour market and will be subject to future reassessment.

2. Sectoral Restriction for Turkmenistan Nationals

Only applications for domestic service roles will be accepted for Turkmenistan citizens. Applications for all other sectors will be suspended until further notice.

3. Lateral Transfers Limited to Three Sectors

Nationals from Third World countries who have completed at least one year under a valid work permit will be permitted to switch employers only within the agriculture, livestock, and construction sectors. Requests for lateral transfers to or from other sectors will not be considered.

4. Existing Exceptions Remain Valid

The ministry emphasized that exceptions under Article 30, Paragraph 9 of the Foreigners’ Work Permits Regulation will remain in force. These allow for transfers without the one-year waiting period under special circumstances, provided that Labour Department inspectors submit relevant reports.

The Ministry stressed that these measures are temporary and were introduced to respond to current sectoral demands and social needs. Officials will monitor developments closely and revise the measures as necessary.