Cyprus Publishes Revised Rules On Employment Of Third-Country Students

The Federation of Employers and Manufacturers (FEM) announced a revised ordinance regulating the employment of international students from third countries. The regulation was published in the Official Gazette of the Republic on March 6, 2026.

Regulatory Framework And Scope

The ordinance defines the sectors of economic activity and professions in which international students may work while studying in Cyprus. Employers and educational institutions are expected to follow the provisions outlined in the updated framework.

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Eligibility And Academic Requirements

Under the regulation, international students may seek employment only after completing their first academic semester and enrolling for the following term. The requirement is intended to ensure that employment does not interfere with academic studies.

Documentation And Compliance Requirements

International students seeking employment must submit several documents, including:

A certificate confirming full-time enrollment and the academic program, issued by a recognized educational institution.
A monthly work schedule prepared by the employer.
A copy of a valid residence permit in the Republic.
An employment contract with a designated employer, approved by the Department of Labour and outlining the main terms of employment.

The Federation of Employers and Manufacturers said businesses should review the updated provisions when employing international students.

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Data Center Investment Paused Amid Escalating Conflict In The Middle East

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 29, 2026

Regional Turbulence Disrupts Strategic Infrastructure Plans

A data center operator has paused investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure and data center projects in the Middle East as regional tensions escalate. Gary Wojtaszek, Chief Executive Officer of Pure DC, said in an interview with CNBC that assets in the region face increased risk in the current security environment. The decision reflects changing conditions affecting infrastructure deployment in the region.

Economic Pressures And Supply Chain Disruptions

Rising oil prices and supply chain disruptions linked to the conflict are affecting project timelines and costs. Materials required for AI infrastructure, including components for high-performance computing systems, are facing supply constraints. At the same time, security risks have increased. A recent incident involving damage to a data center in Abu Dhabi illustrates exposure of physical infrastructure to regional developments. As a result, the company has paused new investments and delayed additional GPU deployments until conditions stabilize.

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Long-Term Strategic Outlook Despite Short-Term Setbacks

Despite the pause, Pure DC continues to assess long-term opportunities in the Middle East. Government-led initiatives across the region, including digital services, enterprise technology adoption, and workforce development, continue to support demand for infrastructure. At the same time, management has indicated that capital deployment will remain limited until geopolitical conditions improve.

Operational Adjustments And Workforce Safety Measures

In parallel with investment decisions, operational changes have been introduced to address safety considerations. Data centers are treated as critical infrastructure, increasing the need for risk management. Measures include flexible work arrangements, relocation options for staff, and additional support for employees working on site. Compensation structures may also be adjusted to reflect operating conditions. These steps are intended to maintain operations while reducing exposure to risk.

Conclusion

While the strategic landscape in the Middle East remains in flux, the underlying digital demand remains robust. As Gulf states continue to invest in infrastructure and technology, companies like Pure DC are recalibrating their approaches to accommodate both current uncertainties and long-term transformative opportunities in the digital realm.

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