Data for May 2026 shows 7,936 registered unemployed persons—a 7.6% increase compared to last year driven largely by the hospitality sector—though seasonally adjusted figures reveal a slight month-on-month decline.

The unemployed persons, registered at the District Labour Offices on the last day of May 2026, reached 7,936 persons. Based on the seasonally adjusted data which reflect the trend of unemployment, the number of registered unemployed for May 2026 decreased to 10,476 persons, in comparison to 10,516 in the previous month, the Statistical Service of the Republic of Cyprus announced on Thursday. 

This increase is mainly attributed to the sectors of accommodation and food service activities, administrative and support service activities, transportation and professional, scientific and technical activities, it is noted.

An increase of 7.6% was recorded in May, in comparison with May 2025, according to Statistical Service, while based on the seasonally adjusted data which reflect the trend of unemployment, the number of registered unemployed for May 2026 slightly decreased.

In addition, the unemployed persons, registered at the District Labour Offices on the last day of May 2026, reached 7,936 persons.

Compared to April 2026, the number of registered unemployed at the end of May 2026 decreased by 1,026. Based on seasonally adjusted data, which reflect the trend in unemployment, the number of registered unemployed in May 2026 fell to 10,476, compared to 10,516 the previous month.

Compared to May 2025, there was an increase of 558 people, or 7.6%, in the number of registered unemployed.

This increase is mainly attributed to the accommodation and food service sectors, administrative and support activities, transportation, and professional, scientific, and technical activities.

Source: CNA(ΚΥΠΕ)