A new circular on the implementation of teleworking in the public sector, scheduled to begin on 2 April 2026, has been issued by the Director of the Department of Public Administration and Personnel.
The circular stresses the need for timely completion of all necessary preparations so that teleworking can be implemented from the date set by the Council of Ministers.
Procedure for employees interested in teleworking
Employees who are deemed suitable for teleworking and express interest in participating will be required to complete the form titled “Expression of Interest for Teleworking”.
After signing the form, employees must submit it to their immediate supervisor or the relevant Head of Department, as instructed, for approval and signature.
Assessment of occupational risks
In addition, employees must complete a “Questionnaire for the Management of Occupational Risks” to ensure proper management of workplace risks and the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases.
Once signed, the questionnaire must be submitted to the relevant Head of Department or an authorised officer for review and approval.
Information and supporting documents
The manual and the forms for the “Expression of Interest for Teleworking” and the “Questionnaire for the Management of Occupational Risks” are available on the website of the Department of Public Administration and Personnel under the section “Information” and the category “Publications/Manuals/Guides”.
Responsibilities of department heads
Heads of ministries, deputy ministries, services and departments responsible for implementing teleworking must be informed of the relevant framework and monitor its implementation.
They are expected to ensure the smooth functioning of their services and prevent operational problems during the transition.
Role of management and organisational culture
The circular emphasises that successful implementation of teleworking requires responsibility and the development of a culture of cooperation, trust and effective communication between employees and their supervisors.
Managers at all hierarchical levels are considered crucial for ensuring that teleworking is implemented effectively. They are expected to support staff in adapting to the new working model by establishing effective communication and collaboration channels, promoting flexibility, adaptability and innovation, and ensuring effective supervision and performance management.
Training programme for employees
To strengthen the skills of employees and supervisors for the effective implementation of teleworking, the Cyprus Academy of Public Administration is preparing an asynchronous online training programme.
Participation in the programme will be mandatory for employees. All courses planned within the programme are expected to be available before the end of the third quarter of 2026, while individual modules will be released gradually earlier.