Cyprus Labour Ministry intensifies undeclared work inspections in events sector

The Cyprus Labour Ministry has intensified inspections in the events sector, targeting professions such as photographers, florists, and DJs, as part of an initiative launched in 2023 to combat illegal employment. Antis Apostolou, Head of the Inspection Service, stated that the primary goal is to verify compliance while educating workers and employers on their rights and obligations. Inspections are conducted several hours before ceremonies or events commence to avoid disrupting participants or guests. A significant portion of the workforce in this sector is currently self-employed, and the government aims to better map these employment practices. Penalties for non-compliance are substantial: undeclared self-employed individuals face fines of up to €1,400. Employers failing to declare staff to the Social Insurance Fund are subject to fines of up to €4,000 per employee. If an individual is found working illegally in the Republic of Cyprus, penalties apply to both the employer and the employee. Employers are granted a five-day window to present necessary documentation or resolve the issue after a violation is identified.