Public service: new rules make availability easier

If you are a public servant, availability allows you to temporarily suspend your activity to deal with certain situations, while maintaining your status. You are no longer paid during the standby period. Contract staff may be granted similar leave.

The decree of 5 December 2025 introduces two major changes concerning the renewal of an availability period and the documents to be provided in cases where progress is maintained.

The obligation to return to the administration before renewal is abolished

Availability for personal convenience is granted for a maximum of 5 years. There is no minimum duration. It is renewable up to a maximum of 10 years for the entire career.

Previously, a public servant who wished to renew an availability for personal convenience beyond 5 years was required to complete 18 months of continuous effective service prior to renewal. This obligation is deleted.

One-time transmission of supporting documents for advancement

Retention of promotion rights, where the staff member is engaged in a professional activity while available, shall be maintained. If you are working while you are available, you may retain your rights to advancement of step and grade under certain conditions.

The supporting documents to be provided each year to date are no longer required: a single transmission at the time of the agent's return An order must specify the list of documents to be provided.

Find all the information on availability in the public service on the Public Service : Availability of staff member