The probationary period is the initial trial phase at the start of an EU appointment, during which the institution assesses whether a new recruit is suited to the post before confirming them. For officials it lasts nine months under Article 34 of the Staff Regulations.
During probation, a newly appointed official carries out the full duties of the post while a reporting officer observes their performance, conduct and integration into the service. Before the period ends, a probation report is drawn up assessing whether the recruit has demonstrated the abilities needed to be established, that is confirmed, in the post. In most cases the report is positive and the official is established with retroactive effect from the start date. If performance is clearly inadequate, the period can be extended or, in rare cases, the appointment ended, with safeguards including the right to comment on the report. The nine-month rule applies to officials; for temporary agents and contract agents the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants generally set a shorter trial, typically six to nine months depending on the contract length and category. Sick leave during probation can pause the clock so the assessment covers enough actual working time. In practice the probationary period is less a filter than a structured onboarding: the vast majority of recruits pass, and the report becomes the first entry in the career file that later feeds into promotion decisions.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the probationary period for EU officials?
- Nine months, under Article 34 of the Staff Regulations. For temporary agents and contract agents the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants usually set a shorter trial of about six to nine months, depending on the category and the length of the contract.
- What happens at the end of probation?
- A probation report assesses whether the recruit has shown the abilities needed for the post. A positive report leads to establishment, usually backdated to the start date. Weak performance can lead to an extension or, rarely, to the appointment ending, with the right to respond.