Significant changes to the working environment for public servants are expected to begin in early 2026. Flexible working arrangements, including the expansion of flexible hours, the option for a two-hour reduction in working time for specific employee categories, and teleworking, are estimated to be implemented in February of the new year.
In the new year, the Council of Ministers is expected to determine the number of days per month that employees will be allowed to work remotely.
The Department of Public Administration and Personnel (DPAP) of the Ministry of Finance is working intensively to ensure teleworking is implemented smoothly across the public sector. The DPAP is also expected to provide computers to employees who currently lack the necessary equipment to work from home via teleworking.
Additionally, the DPAP is expected to issue a circular containing guidelines for employees to ensure a smooth transition from traditional work methods to teleworking. Training seminars for employees may also be conducted.
A fundamental prerequisite for exercising the teleworking option is the feasibility of performing the employees’ duties based on their nature and the required technological means for their execution.
Eligibility and requirements: Employees who have completed at least one year of service in their current position or duties will be eligible for teleworking. Employees must submit a request to their service head, who will make a decision based on service needs and the smooth operation of the department. Employees working remotely must have a fast and secure internet connection and a government-issued laptop connected to their official phone and office automation system at their remote location.
Exclusions: Teleworking will not apply to employees working on a shift system. The Council of Ministers will also have the authority to exclude other categories of employees from teleworking if deemed necessary.
The flexible starting time for work is expanding from 90 minutes to two hours.
The new arrival window will be between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Correspondingly, departure will range from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM.
Reduced working time by two hours per day in the public service may be implemented after February. This timeline will provide departments with the necessary time to comply with the regulations and for the installation of systems to monitor employee arrival and departure times.
Crucially, employees working two hours less per day will receive a corresponding reduction in their salary.
Specific categories of employees can utilise the reduced working time option: Parents of children up to 15 years old. Caregivers for individuals with serious health problems who reside in the same household as the employee. Employees with disabilities or other serious health problems, provided they obtain a medical certificate.