UNHCR Recruitment, Nov 2025 : Open Jobs/Vacancies at The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), widely known as the UN Refugee Agency, has been at the forefront of global humanitarian action since its creation in 1950. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in the aftermath of World War II, its original mandate was to help Europeans displaced by conflict. Today, UNHCR’s work extends far beyond its early mission—protecting and assisting millions of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people across the globe.

Operating in 133 countries with over 17,000 dedicated staff, UNHCR works tirelessly to ensure that every person forced to flee violence, persecution, war, or disaster can seek asylum and find safety. The organization’s presence in conflict zones, refugee camps, border areas, and urban displacement settings reflects its commitment to safeguarding human dignity and supporting some of the world’s most vulnerable populations.

Recruitment and Open Job Opportunities

UNHCR regularly posts new job opportunities on its official online recruitment portal. These roles vary from field-level emergency response positions to specialized technical and administrative jobs. Because needs change quickly—particularly in emergency contexts—vacancies are updated often.

The organization encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of nationality, gender, ethnicity, or background. What matters most is a strong commitment to humanitarian values, readiness to work in diverse environments, and the ability to adapt to challenging or rapidly changing situations.

How to Apply: The UNHCR Online Application Process

Applying for a position with UNHCR is done entirely online. The process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Here’s an overview:

1. Find a Suitable Vacancy : Start by browsing the job listings on the UNHCR Careers Portal. Vacancies include both international and national positions, temporary jobs, internships, and talent pool openings.

2. Review the Requirements

Each vacancy clearly outlines:

• Minimum education level
• Required years of experience
• Specific technical skills
• Preferred professional background
• Language requirements

For international professional roles, applicants must be proficient in English or French and have at least an intermediate level in a second official UN language.

3. Complete the Online Application Form

You’ll need to enter detailed information about your:

• Personal background
• Education
• Work history
• Skills
• Languages
• Certifications

This step can take time, so it helps to prepare your documents in advance.

4. Submit Your Application

Once all sections are completed and relevant documents are uploaded, you can submit your application. A confirmation email is typically sent afterward.

5. Wait for Feedback

If your profile matches the requirements, UNHCR may shortlist you for an interview. The interview process often involves competency-based questions designed to assess your skills, values, and suitability for humanitarian work.

Importantly, UNHCR never charges a fee at any point in its recruitment process—a key detail to remember in order to avoid recruitment scams.

Working for UNHCR is more than just a job; it’s a commitment to protecting lives and restoring hope. Every role—whether in the field or at headquarters—contributes to safeguarding the rights of people who have lost everything due to war, persecution, or disaster.

For those passionate about humanitarian service, international cooperation, and defending human dignity, a career with UNHCR offers the opportunity to make a profound difference in the world.