Europol Internship 2026 in EU & International Affairs now open. Receive a €1,602 monthly maintenance grant in The Hague. Apply before 20 February 2026.
The European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Internship in EU and International Affairs. This is a highly competitive opportunity for EU nationals seeking hands-on experience in international security, EU policy, governance, and institutional affairs.
The intern will take place at Europol’s headquarters in The Hague, Netherlands, beginning 1 May 2026 (or later).
About Europol
European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation supports EU Member States in preventing and combating:
- Serious international and organised crime
- Cybercrime
- Terrorism
Europol coordinates operational actions, conducts criminal intelligence analysis, prepares threat assessments, supports cross-border investigations, and strengthens EU security cooperation frameworks.
Internship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Reference | INT 2026 EUIA 11 |
| Location | The Hague, Netherlands |
| Duration | 6–12 months |
| Work Schedule | 40 hours per week |
| Starting Date | 01 May 2026 (or later) |
| Application Deadline | 20 February 2026 (23:59 CET) |
| Monthly Maintenance Grant | €1,602 |
Financial Support
Although this is not a salaried position, selected interns receive:
- €1,602 monthly maintenance grant to cover living costs in the Netherlands
- Accident and death insurance coverage
- 2 days of leave per full month of internship
- Flexible working arrangements
Important notes:
- Interns must provide proof of health insurance.
- If you already receive funding from another source, Europol will only pay the difference if it is below €1,602.
- Invoices and receipts for living expenses may be required.
Available Internship Teams (4 Projects)
Successful candidates will be assigned to one of the following teams:
1. Office of the Executive Director (CAB-01)
Focus areas:
- International security policy research
- EU legislative monitoring
- Executive briefings and reports
- Strategic project support
2. EU Affairs Team (G2-11)
Focus areas:
- EU legislative research
- Monitoring Brussels developments
- Drafting notes and policy documents
- Participating in stakeholder meetings
3. Stakeholders Management & Outreach Team (G2-12)
Focus areas:
- External relations support
- High-level meeting briefings
- Researching countries and regions
- Conference and event coordination
4. Governance Directorate Management Office (GDMO)
Focus areas:
- Policy background research
- Monitoring management decisions
- Meeting coordination and documentation
- Document repository management
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a national of an EU Member State
- Have reached the age of majority
- Hold a completed university degree or relevant vocational training
- Have very good English
- Have at least B1 level in another EU language
You must NOT have:
- Completed more than six weeks of internship or employment within any EU institution or agency (including Europol).
Selection Criteria
Academic Background
Preferred degrees in:
- International Relations
- Political Science
- European Studies
- Law
- Security Studies
Experience
- Research and policy analysis
- Drafting complex documents in English
- Knowledge of EU Justice and Home Affairs (JHA)
- Understanding of EU decision-making processes
- Event organisation experience
Competencies
- Excellent written and verbal English
- Strong Microsoft Office skills
- Ability to work in a multicultural environment
- Organisational and planning skills
- Independent and team-based working ability
Security & Documentation Requirements
Selected candidates must provide:
- Valid passport/ID
- University diploma
- Certificate of Good Conduct (not older than 3 months)
- Security clearance (if applicable)
All interns accessing sensitive information must undergo appropriate security checks.
Key Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Publication Date | 30 January 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 20 February 2026 |
| Remote Interviews | March 2026 |
| Internship Start | 01 May 2026 or later |
Why Apply?
This internship offers:
- Direct exposure to EU institutional processes
- Experience in international law enforcement cooperation
- Professional development in EU policy & governance
- Networking within European security institutions
- A strong foundation for careers in EU institutions or international organisations
Europol also aims to maintain gender balance and geographical diversity among selected interns.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via Europol’s official online e-recruitment tool before the deadline.
Shortlisted candidates will attend a remote interview.
Inclusion on the reserve list is valid for 12 months but does not guarantee placement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this internship paid?
It is unpaid but includes a €1,602 monthly maintenance grant.
Can non-EU nationals apply?
No. Only EU Member State nationals are eligible.
Can I apply if I previously interned at an EU agency?
Only if it was for less than six weeks.
Is remote work allowed?
The intern takes place at Europol premises in The Hague.
Can the internship be extended?
Yes, up to a maximum total duration of 12 months, depending on performance and budget.
Conclusion
The Europol 2026 Intern in EU & International Affairs is one of the most prestigious EU-level internships available for students and graduates interested in international security, EU policy, and governance.
With a €1,602 monthly maintenance grant and placement in one of Europe’s leading law enforcement agencies, this opportunity provides invaluable exposure to the EU institutional environment.
Apply before 20 February 2026 to be considered.
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