The EU offers a €6,000 salary and a lifelong job, but only 3% will get in

Brussels is opening the door to one of Europe’s most coveted careers. After a seven-year pause, the European Personnel Selection Office has relaunched the AD5 competition, the main entry route to becoming a permanent official at the European Commission.

The job offers starting salaries of up to €6,758 a month and long-term security, so between 50,000 and 60,000 are expected to apply. Fewer than 3% will make it. Applicants must pass tough online tests on reasoning, EU knowledge, digital skills, and policy writing.

This hiring effort comes as Commission President Ursula von der Leyen focuses on bringing in a new generation. Many senior officials are close to retirement, and the institutions want to strengthen their digital skills.

Applications are open until March 10, and those who succeed could start working within 2 years.