Minister Byrne encourages Irish graduates to apply for EU Blue Book Traineeships

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, today urged Irish graduates to seize a unique career opportunity by applying for the European Commission’s Blue Book Traineeship. Applications close at 9am Irish time on Tuesday, 7 April 2026.

The Blue Book Traineeship is a five-month paid programme within the European Commission, offering hands-on experience in EU policymaking, communications, law, science, and more. With approximately 1,000 places available per session, the Blue Book Traineeship can act as a first step towards careers in the European Union Institutions.

Trainees receive a monthly allowance and are typically based in Brussels or Luxembourg, working alongside colleagues from across all 27 EU Member States.

Encouraging graduates to apply, Minister Byrne said: “The Blue Book Traineeship is an exceptional opportunity for Irish graduates to gain international experience and take the first steps towards an EU career, working to benefit 450 million EU citizens. I strongly urge eligible candidates to apply before the deadline on 7 April and to take this first step towards an exciting and meaningful career in the EU.”

The traineeship is open to graduates from all academic backgrounds. Candidates must hold a university degree, have knowledge of two EU official languages at a high level, and not have worked in the EU institutions previously. Irish is recognised as an official EU language and can be counted towards the language requirement.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is encouraging applications from Irish graduates as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Ireland’s representation within EU institutions and agencies. With the deadline fast approaching, interested candidates are advised to complete their applications as soon as possible.

For more information on how to apply for EU job opportunities, and to avail of supports for Irish candidates, visit Blue Book Traineeship Programme | Ireland.ie. 

ENDS

Press Office

2 April 2026

Notes to editors: 

The European Commission Blue Book Traineeship is a prestigious, five-month paid programme offered by the European Commission. It is a unique opportunity to work in a multicultural environment, develop professional skills, and contribute to projects that shape the future of Europe.

Open to university graduates, it provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at international policymaking. Participants, known as trainees or stagiaires, undertake a professional internship at the heart of the European Union's civil service.

A Career for EU: The Irish Government’s strategy to increase the number of Irish nationals working in permanent posts in EU institutions and agencies. For information on supports available to candidates, visit Ireland.ie/EUJobs. For information on the competition itself, visit https://traineeships.ec.europa.eu/index_en.