Nicosia, Cyprus. The Finance Ministry has announced a revision of the domestic out-of-pocket travel allowance framework for civil servants, updating spending parameters across the public sector. The changes took retrospective economic effect from May 1, 2026.
Policy update
The administrative changes were enacted through a policy circular issued by the director of the public administration and personnel department. The directive modifies an administrative policy that had been in force since February 8, 2024.
Revised spending limits
The updated framework changes the financial caps for overnight business travel and standard daytime subsistence costs within Cyprus. It also states that previous decentralised authorisation rules issued on January 23, 2026, will remain in effect for ministerial leaders.
Exceptions
Under the rules, general directors and independent office heads may approve spending above the standard maximum limits if a valid receipt is presented. The exception applies to meetings directly linked to Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026.
Other cases
Additional spending is also permitted when an official is involved in organising or coordinating a conference where staying at the specific venue is mandatory. The higher threshold further applies when conference organisers pre-select designated accommodation or restaurants, leaving the civil servant with no alternative option.
