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As the European Commission prepares to unveil its 26 new Commissioners, Cyprus has nominated former Minister and Professor Kostas Kadis for the role.
The selection process, led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, began in mid-August and will continue through the end of the month, as she interviews candidates proposed by EU member states.
Euronews reports that similar to the election of Members of the European Parliament, the positions of European Commissioners come with a significant financial package. Commissioners receive a monthly salary of €25,910 before taxes, amounting to over €310,000 annually, paid by European taxpayers. They also enjoy various allowances, including a residence allowance of 15% of their salary, approximately €3,886 per month, to cover housing costs in Brussels. Additionally, upon arrival in Brussels, Commissioners are entitled to a one-time installation allowance ranging from €839 to €1,411.
While traveling, Commissioners can claim reimbursement for travel expenses, including hotel costs, room service, and applicable local taxes. Their family members’ travel expenses are also covered. Furthermore, they receive a daily allowance of around €50 for professional travel and an additional €607 per month as an entertainment allowance to cover meals and other official duties.
Commissioners are also entitled to family-related benefits, including a parental allowance of approximately €1,500, a dependent child allowance of €471 per month, and an education allowance of up to €320 per month. After completing their term, Commissioners receive a transitional allowance, equivalent to €13,000 per month for five months for those who serve a full five-year term.
One noteworthy aspect is that EU Commissioners are not taxed by their home countries but instead pay a lower tax rate to the EU.
