Foreign football players said on Tuesday they receive salaries below the legally mandated minimum wage, which means they struggle to cover basic living expenses in Cyprus.

“The issue of living conditions is exacerbated by the fact that individuals granted specific work permits in Cyprus are not allowed to seek secondary employment. Consequently, these players struggle to meet their essential costs,” the Pancyprian Footballers Association (Pasp) said after a meeting with Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides.

Furthermore, it was brought to Ioannides’ attention that when players are contracted for more than one season, their contracts do not stipulate any payments during the summer months.

Another critical issue discussed was the reluctance of many clubs, particularly those in lower divisions, to pay the minimum amounts required by authorities for the issuance of work permits for foreign players. As a result, they intentionally refrain from submitting the necessary applications.

Pasp said a specific minimum monthly salary should be established for the lawful employment of foreign footballers, ensuring their comfortable living in the Republic.

The salary, the association argued, should be increased for players relocating to Cyprus with their families.

Under the framework, Pasp further added that Cypriot clubs should not be allowed to employ players for salaries below the minimum wage, although that only applies to people working in certain sectors.

Additionally, the association also said that clubs employing foreign players for more than one season should compensate them throughout the duration of their employment agreements, not just during the active months of the leagues in which they participate.

Pasp said its proposals were received positively by the deputy minister, “who demonstrated a strong understanding of the significant issues facing players”.

It was agreed that both parties would continue their dialogue aimed at resolving the ongoing issues.