Cyprus government postpones public sector entry exams for 2026

The Cypriot Ministry of Finance has announced that general written examinations for public sector entry positions will not take place in 2026. This decision is linked to legislative changes aimed at modernizing the recruitment process, which were approved by the Council of Ministers on April 8, 2026. The proposed bills, now submitted to the House of Representatives, aim to transition the exam schedule so that tests occur only after specific vacancies are advertised, rather than beforehand. This shift is intended to better align candidate skills with current departmental needs and provide applicants with clearer information about available positions. The legislation, specifically the 'Evaluation of Candidates for Appointment to the Public Service Law of 2026', seeks to make the entry process more rational and effective. While exams are suspended for 2026, the Ministry clarified that recruitment based on exams conducted in late 2025 will proceed as planned. Should the new laws fail to pass in time, the Ministry stated it will consider alternative solutions. The government expects the new system to be fully operational for positions advertised starting in 2027.