Contract Agents 3a and 3b Contracts

In EU institutions, contract agents can be employed under two main types of contracts: 3a and 3b. 3a contracts are widely believed to be better but are not available if you want to work for the European Commission and a few other “core” EU institutions in Brussels and Luxembourg.

While the tasks performed under both contracts don’t differ, there are other important differences among them.

A 3a contract is used mainly by EU Agencies, Executive Agencies and Delegations. Upon decision of management to extend a 3a contract, it will become indefinite after the 2nd extension. Because of this 3a contracts provide greater job security and stability.

A 3b contract provides a fixed-term employment for up to six years, and cannot be extended past this deadline. This is why staff with 3a contracts tend to look for more permanent career options in the EU institutions.

3b contracts are sometimes called an ‘auxiliary contract’.

ASPECT3a Contracts3b Contracts
DurationTypically indefinite. Contract becomes indefinite after 2nd extensionGenerally fixed-term, often with renewal for up to 6 years
StabilityMore job security due to indefinite natureLess job security, but an opportunity to network in the European Commission to get a more permanent role
RolesThe same for both types of contractThe same for both types of contract
Used byAgencies, Executive Agencies, and DelegationsEuropean Commission, other Brussels and Luxembourg-based “core” EU institutions
FlexibilityLess flexible due to indefinite durationMore flexible with varied fixed-term roles
Summary of differences between Contract Agents 3a and 3b contracts

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