UNHCR Internships: Gain Hands-On Experience in Humanitarian Work 101

12/02/2025

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UNHCR Internships: Gain Hands-On Experience in Humanitarian Work

Are you looking for an opportunity to make a real impact while gaining practical work experience? The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) offers a dynamic Internship Programme for students and recent graduates who are eager to contribute to humanitarian efforts.

This is your chance to work with a global organization that protects and supports millions of refugees, displaced individuals, and stateless people worldwide. Whether you’re pursuing a career in human rights, international development, communications, finance, or project management, a UNHCR internship is a valuable stepping stone.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this exciting internship opportunity, from eligibility and locations to benefits and how to apply.

Why Choose a UNHCR Internship?

Interning with UNHCR allows you to:

✅ Gain hands-on experience in refugee protection and humanitarian work.
✅ Develop valuable professional skills while working with experienced UN teams.
✅ Contribute to global efforts in supporting people forced to flee.
✅ Work in a diverse, inclusive, and multicultural environment.
✅ Strengthen your resume with an internationally recognized organization.

UNHCR is looking for talented, motivated, and passionate individuals who bring fresh ideas, innovative thinking, and a strong commitment to humanitarian work. If this sounds like you, keep reading to find out if you’re eligible!

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

To qualify for a UNHCR internship, you must meet the following criteria:

🎓 Be a current student in an undergraduate or graduate program OR a recent graduate (within the last two years).
📚 Have completed at least two years of undergraduate studies in a field relevant to UNHCR’s work.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Not have immediate relatives (father, mother, brother, or sister) working for UNHCR as a staff member.
⏳ Not have exceeded the maximum cumulative internship period with UNHCR (8 months full-time / 12 months part-time).
🗣 Be proficient in English (minimum B2 level). Additional languages, such as French, Spanish, or Arabic, are a plus!

💡 Tip: Even if you don’t have prior work experience, strong academic performance, extracurricular activities, or volunteering experience can make your application stand out!

Where Are UNHCR Internships Offered?

UNHCR interns can work in various locations worldwide, including:

🏢 UNHCR Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland
🌍 Global Service Centres in Amman (Jordan), Budapest (Hungary), and Copenhagen (Denmark)
🌎 Field Offices in countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas

🌐 Remote Internships: In some cases, virtual internships are available, allowing interns to contribute from anywhere in the world.

📌 Note: Internships are subject to the needs of UNHCR offices and their capacity to supervise interns effectively.

Internship Duration: How Long Does It Last?

📅 Internships can start at any time of the year and typically last between two to six months, with the possibility of an extension:

🔹 Full-time internships: Maximum of 8 months
🔹 Part-time internships: Maximum of 12 months

📌 Important: Any prior internships with UNHCR count towards these maximum durations.

Financial Support: Will You Be Paid?

💰 Yes! UNHCR offers a stipend to help cover basic living expenses. If you do not receive financial support from an external organization, you will be eligible for:

✅ 50% of the monthly net salary of a General Service (GS) Level 3, Step 1 at UN Headquarters locations.
✅ 70% of the monthly net salary at field offices.
✅ Part-time internships receive 50% of the full-time stipend.

🌍 Remote internships are also compensated according to location-based rates.

Additionally, if your internship requires travel, UNHCR reimburses return travel costs from your location to the duty station via the most economical route.

🚨 Important: Visa arrangements and associated costs are the intern’s responsibility. However, UNHCR can provide supporting documents for your application.

Medical Insurance Requirement

📑 Interns must arrange and provide proof of valid medical insurance before starting their assignment. UNHCR does not cover medical insurance costs, and those interning in remote or high-risk locations should ensure their insurance includes emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Diversity & Inclusion: Everyone is Welcome!

🌍 UNHCR is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Internships are open to applicants of all nationalities, backgrounds, and identities, including those from refugee and stateless communities.

🚀 Encouraged Applicants:
✅ Women, LGBTQ+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and people from underrepresented communities.
✅ Individuals who bring new perspectives and innovative ideas to UNHCR’s humanitarian work.

How to Apply for a UNHCR Internship

Applying is easy! Here’s what you need to do:

1️⃣ Check for Open Positions

🔍 Browse the latest internship opportunities on the official UNHCR Careers Portal:
🔗 Apply Here

2️⃣ Create an Online Profile

✍️ Sign up on the UNHCR recruitment platform, complete your profile, and upload the required documents (resume, cover letter, and academic records).

3️⃣ Submit Your Application

📩 Ensure your application is well-written, tailored to the role, and highlights your skills, passion, and experience.

4️⃣ Prepare for an Interview (If Shortlisted)

📞 If selected, you may be invited for an interview via phone or video call. Be ready to discuss your motivation, qualifications, and how you can contribute to UNHCR’s mission.

🔗 Need More Details? Visit the Application & Selection Guide here.

Join Our UNHCR Internship WhatsApp Group!

Want to stay updated on the latest internship opportunities, tips, and deadlines? Join our dedicated WhatsApp groupand connect with other applicants!

📲 Join Here: WhatsApp Group Link

Final Thoughts: Start Your Humanitarian Career Today!

Interning with UNHCR is a life-changing experience that allows you to make a real impact on displaced communities worldwide. Whether you’re looking to gain experience in human rights, policy, communications, finance, or field operations, this internship is an excellent opportunity to launch your career.

🌟 Don’t wait! Apply today and take your first step toward a rewarding career in humanitarian work!