According to the circular, signed by the department’s director, Elena Economidou Azina, the cases in which the authority to approve expenses exceeding the established maximum limits has been decentralised from the Ministry of Finance to the respective Permanent Secretaries of ministries, deputy ministries and heads of independent offices remain in force. These were previously communicated in a circular dated 23 January 2026.
Such approvals apply where at least one of the following conditions is met:
(a) For meetings held in the context of Cyprus assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026.
(b) When an employee contributes to the organisation or coordination of a conference or meeting and must therefore stay at the hotel where the event is held or participate in meals.
(c) When an employee takes part in a conference or meeting where organisers have preselected specific hotels or restaurants, making their use necessary beyond reasonable doubt.
(d) When at least 50% of accommodation or meal costs are covered by other bodies or organisations and not by the Republic of Cyprus.
It is recalled that such approvals must be properly justified, remain within reasonable limits, involve standard accommodation, not require additional funds from the Ministry of Finance and, where applicable, favour the cheapest available option.
In all other cases, the authority to grant exceptions for expenses exceeding the set limits remains with the Ministry of Finance.
