Interest rises in Cyprus contract soldiers as reforms improve pay and career prospects

Local armynational guardTop News Interest rises in Cyprus contract soldiers as reforms improve pay and career prospects Relevant News Interest rises in Cyprus contract soldiers as reforms improve pay and career prospects 27 June 2026 Tanker struck in Hormuz as Iran, US trade attacks in worst escalation since peace deal 27 June 2026 Hezbollah rejects US-brokered Israel-Lebanon security deal as ‘surrender’ 27 June 2026 Andreas Pogiatzi 27 June 2026 FacebookXWhatsAppEmailPrintViber Interest in recruitment for contract soldiers in the National Guard is increasing, although a significant number of vacancies still remain to be filled. The application period, which closes on 13 July, has recorded a slight rise compared with previous recruitment cycles, attributed to recent measures aimed at strengthening and upgrading the institution. However, earlier handling of the scheme appears to have affected its image in the labour market, mainly due to low pay levels and limited career progression prospects. Under the new framework, contract soldiers are now placed on salary scale A2, with additional allowances and promotion prospects up to scale A8. Annual promotion opportunities to contract officer positions are also provided, a development expected to increase the attractiveness of the role. According to Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, examinations for contract officer posts have already been completed, with the first promotions of contract soldiers expected within the year. Monthly allowances have also been introduced, with all contract soldiers receiving an additional €150 per month. Personnel serving in elite or specialist units receive €250. These include units such as the Commandos, Underwater Demolition Teams, mine clearance units, and medical support roles. Government decisions introduce broader changes to recruitment conditions, tenure and career progression for contract soldiers. The maximum recruitment age has been increased from 27 to 35, while the service limit in the National Guard has been extended from 42 to 57, allowing for longer careers and greater stability. Changes are also planned to pension and retirement benefits, with service as a contract soldier to be counted towards those who transition into contract non-commissioned officer roles. The Defence Ministry has launched a recruitment process for vacant or soon-to-be-vacant positions, inviting eligible applicants to submit applications. Applications are submitted exclusively online through the government portal under the section “Military Service – Recruitment – Application for Contract Soldiers”, from 25 May to 13 July 2026 at 14:00. Candidates must be registered and verified users of the government portal. Following submission, applicants will be required to take part in a physical fitness assessment and strength tests. Examinations are expected to take place in July, with candidates to be informed via email and text message. Subscribe to our Newsletter Latest News Tanker struck in Hormuz as Iran, US trade attacks in worst escalation since peace deal Hezbollah rejects US-brokered Israel-Lebanon security deal as ‘surrender’ 57-year-old Russian man found dead in sea area of Enaerios, Limassol Fire brought under control in Trachoni, Limassol as crews remain on scene for safety checks Greek-American lawmakers voice concern over proposed US engine sale to Turkey Fire breaks out in dry grass and vegetation in Trachoni, Limassol Three remanded in custody over dried poppy bulb shipment in Famagusta drug probe Follow en.philenews on Google News and be the first to know all the news about Cyprus and the world.