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Intercultural competencies have become increasingly important for international personnel selection and training. The purpose of this article is to evaluate psychometric data regarding the controversy as to whether intercultural competencies are culture-free or culture-bound. In two empirical research projects in the USA and Germany national differences in intercultural competencies are evaluated. National culture is indicated as a significant independent variable for intercultural competencies in both studies. However, the impact of national culture on intercultural competencies seems to be minor in relation to the impact of gender culture as well as of organisational culture. Therefore, intercultural competencies are judged to be culture-general in the two nations. Conceptual conclusions as well as practical conclusions for [international human resource management] IHRM are discussed, based on the results. Finally, the limitations of the studies are pointed out.