Detailed instructions on the administrative steps to follow and the documents to submit will be published in due time in the Blue Book Account (BBA) of selected candidates.
Grant and financial matters
As a trainee, you receive a monthly grant to help cover your living expenses.
- The grant is paid at the end of each month.
- The first payment is made after four effective weeks of traineeship and is subject to all required financial documents being submitted on time.
- The grant is not covered by the special tax rules applicable to EU officials.
- At the end of the traineeship, you will receive a declaration stating the total amount paid.
You are responsible for checking with the tax authorities in your country of residence whether and how the grant must be declared.
Taxation in Belgium will be explained to you in a dedicated information session.
Health insurance
Health insurance coverage is compulsory for the entire duration of the traineeship.
- You may keep your own insurance, provided you can upload valid proof (for example, a European Health Insurance Card – EHIC).
- If you are no longer covered by a national scheme, you may opt for the Commission’s primary health insurance. We recommend carefully reviewing the benefits, especially for hospitalisation, and taking out complementary insurance if needed.
- Third-party liability insurance is not included.
If you do not choose the Commission insurance, you should check reimbursement conditions with your national provider. The EHIC is accepted across the EU.
Bank account
You are not required to open a bank account in the country of your traineeship.
Be aware that the procedure to open a bank account may require prior registration with local authorities (compulsory in Brussels, for instance) or other administrative paperwork. This might result in delays of your first payment.
We advise you to keep the bank account in your home country.
Accommodation
The Commission does not provide accommodation.
You are responsible for arranging your own housing. Useful starting points include the Trainees Committee website and dedicated housing groups.
You should also plan for initial expenses, such as a rental deposit (usually one to two months). Living costs may be higher than in your home country.
Working arrangements
- The standard working week is 40 hours (five 8-hour days).
- Trainees are entitled to two days of paid leave per month.
- Public holidays (for example Christmas and Easter) are not deducted from your leave balance.
- Leave must be agreed in advance with your adviser and, where applicable, your head of unit.
There is no formal dress code, but professional attire is expected.