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Cyprus Employers Fined Heavily for Illegal Migrant Employment

In a significant crackdown on illegal employment practices, 24 employers in Cyprus have been collectively fined €156,000. This enforcement action follows an intensive investigation by the Aliens and Immigration Service (YAM), spanning from April 25 to May 2, 2025.

The investigation revealed 34 migrants working illegally across 20 different cases. While all 24 employers will face court proceedings, the fines administered are currently administrative. Under current legislation, these illegal practices can lead to a prison term of up to five years, a fine of €20,000, or both.

Further ramifications are expected as each employer may incur additional fines per immigrant worker from the labour inspection department. As Cyprus continues to develop its marketplace strategies, the focus on combating illegal employment remains resolute. Police promise ongoing inspections across hotels, buildings, and catering establishments to further this cause.

In related statistics, from 2024 to 2025, there were 512 reported cases of illegal employment, leading to court charges against 499 employers and the arrest of 799 migrant workers. This underscores the importance of ensuring compliance with immigration laws as part of efforts to refine the Cypriot workforce landscape.

Sklavenitis Cyprus Sets A New Standard For Employee-Centric Benefits

Investing In Human Capital

In a bold move that underscores the growing importance of human capital in today’s business landscape, Sklavenitis Cyprus has taken innovative steps to ensure its workforce is both valued and supported. The supermarket chain has introduced a policy to pay a 14th salary to all employees—including those from Papantoniou Supermarkets—cementing its status as the sole retailer in Cyprus to implement such a comprehensive benefit.

A Significant Investment In People

This initiative is far from symbolic. With an estimated total cost of €2 million, it represents a committed investment in the company’s most valuable asset—its people. By providing an additional salary, Sklavenitis reinforces a culture of inclusivity and fairness, acknowledging every employee’s contribution to its success.

Robust Benefits For Long-Term Stability

Complementary to the 14th salary, the company has launched a robust benefits program designed to address both financial and personal security. An Automatic Cost of Living Adjustment (ATA) of 12.56 per cent ensures that wages remain aligned with inflation, safeguarding real income stability for its team members.

Comprehensive Health And Life Support

Sklavenitis further enhances employee welfare through access to a Group Life and Health Insurance Plan and a Provident Fund co-funded by the employer. These measures not only provide immediate protection but also empower employees to plan confidently for the future.

Exclusive Perks And Incentives

The company extends its commitment beyond conventional benefits by offering store discounts, a birth allowance, and holiday gift vouchers valued at €100 during both Easter and Christmas. These additional perks enhance employee satisfaction and underline Sklavenitis’ people-first ethos.

A Strategy For Mutual Success

In an industry where employee engagement directly impacts customer satisfaction, Sklavenitis’ comprehensive approach stands out as both a progressive and strategic business decision. By investing in its workforce, the company not only nurtures a supportive workplace but also drives superior corporate performance, setting a new benchmark for responsible employment practices in Cyprus.

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