Cyprus to Pay Government Salaries and Pensions Early This December

The government of Republic of Cyprus has confirmed that civil servants, public servants, and pensioners will receive their December 2025 salaries and pensions earlier than usual — a move aimed at easing cash-flow ahead of the holiday season. 

New Payment Schedule: What Changed

The regular December salary and pension payments will be disbursed on 19 December 2025. 

The so-called “13th salary/pension” — a customary end-of-year bonus in Cyprus — is scheduled to follow on 29 December 2025. 

According to the announcement from the Treasury, beneficiaries’ bank accounts should be credited within 24 hours of the payment dates. 

This accelerated schedule was approved by the Finance Ministry and covers civil servants, hourly-paid staff, and pension recipients alike. 

Why This Matters: Timing, Relief and Predictability

Early Cash Before Holidays

With the December payment arriving sooner, many workers and pensioners will have funds in time for holiday-related expenses — an important relief given typical December cost pressures (holiday spending, year-end obligations, etc.).

 Predictable Income & Financial Planning

By issuing salaries and pensions before the traditional year-end rush, the government helps recipients plan and budget more confidently — avoiding uncertainty over when funds will hit their accounts.

Stability for Public Servants & Pensioners

Prompt payment of salaries and pensions helps maintain morale among public-sector workers and ensures pensioners receive their benefits in a timely, reliable manner.

Context: Bonus Pay and Social-Welfare Practices

In Cyprus, many employees receive a 13th salary — effectively an extra monthly payment — around December. While not always legally mandated, it has become a customary (or contractually agreed) bonus in many public and private-sector jobs. 

Past practice has seen December salaries and bonuses paid mid-to-late in the month, sometimes split between main salary and 13th-month bonus. 

By confirming early disbursement this year, the Treasury signals confidence in liquidity and effort to smooth holiday-season finances for recipients. 

What Beneficiaries Should Know

Eligible recipients (civil servants, pensioners, hourly-paid public staff) should expect funds in their bank accounts within 24 hours of 19 Dec (salary/pension) and 29 Dec (bonus). 

No action is required on their part — payments are automatic, as per Treasury schedule.

The early payment move helps people plan for holiday costs, year-end bills, and provides reassurance for households relying on pension income.

 Final Thought

Cyprus’ decision to advance the December salary and pension disbursements reflects a proactive fiscal move: easing financial pressures for public servants and retirees just in time for the holidays. For many households, the guarantee of timely income — including the year-end bonus — will bring welcome stability and peace of mind at a typically costly time.