Holders of Special Identity Cards of the Diaspora have free access to the labour market (i.e. without a sealed contract from the Department of Labour) and to self-employment, without time limit on their stay. However, for their family members, who do not hold the Special Identity Card and wish to be employed, the procedure for remunerated employment (single permit - GEN) has to be followed.

Syrians of Cretan origin whose name is on the list approved by the Ministry of Interior, and have completed 3 years of legal or illegal residence until March 2003, can apply for a residence and work permit without a sealed contract from the Department of Labour or for self-employment. In case they did not complete 3 years during the above period, then for their employment a sealed contract is required and the procedure for remunerated employment (single permit - GEN) has to be followed.

Kurds whose name is on the list approved by the Ministry of Interior and have completed 5 years of legal or illegal residence until March 2003, can apply for a residence and work permit without a sealed contract from the Department of Labour or for self-employment. In case they did not complete 5 years during the above period, then for their employment a sealed contract is required and the procedure for remunerated employment (single permit - GEN) has to be followed.