The main differences between permanent officials, temporary agents and contract agents concern:

• the type and duration of the contract, 
• the selection procedure, 
• and the nature of the duties performed. 

Permanent officials

Permanent staff are members of the EU civil service appointed for an indefinite duration. They constitute the core working force and are recruited through open competitions organised by EPSO. There are three categories for permanent EU officials: Administrators (AD), Assistants (AST) and Secretaries/Clerks (AST/SC).

Temporary agents

Temporary agents are recruited for fixed-term or temporary positions, often to perform specialised tasks or managerial functions. Selection procedures are usually organised directly by the recruiting EU institution, body or agency.

Contract agents

Contract agents are recruited under fixed-term contracts to carry out administrative, technical, operational or support tasks, or to provide additional capacity in specialised fields. They are recruited in four function groups (FG I–IV), depending on the responsibilities and qualifications required. The selection procedures for contract staff are organised by EPSO.

The eligibility requirements, contract conditions and career opportunities vary depending on the staff category and the position concerned.