At a time when forced displacement is reaching unprecedented levels worldwide, opportunities to contribute meaningfully to humanitarian action are more important than ever. One such opportunity is the Registration Intern position with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, based in Algiers, Algeria.
This full-time internship, starting in January 2026, offers students and recent graduates a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in refugee protection while working within one of the world’s most respected humanitarian organizations.
About UNHCR: Protecting Lives and Restoring Dignity
Established in December 1950, UNHCR was created to respond to the aftermath of World War II and has since grown into a global organization operating in over 130 countries. Its core mission is to save lives, protect rights, and help build a better future for refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced persons, returnees, and stateless individuals.
Today, UNHCR supports nearly 90 million forcibly displaced people worldwide, delivering life-saving assistance such as shelter, food, water, legal protection, and access to essential services. Its staff work across diverse disciplines, including protection, health, education, administration, and public affairs, united by a shared commitment to humanitarian principles.
UNHCR in Algeria: Context and Importance
UNHCR has been accredited to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria since 1984, following the country’s accession to the 1951 Refugee Convention. The operation in Algiers plays a critical role in protecting refugees and asylum-seekers in both urban and camp settings.
Currently, UNHCR Algiers serves more than 10,000 refugees and asylum-seekers, primarily from the Middle East and Sub-Saharan Africa. Due to regional and global crises—both natural and man-made—the number of individuals seeking asylum in Algiers has increased significantly. In 2024 alone, monthly asylum applications reached up to 400 new cases. In this context, effective registration and data management are essential for ensuring access to protection, documentation, and durable solutions.
The Registration Intern Role: An Overview
The Registration Intern position is based within the Registration Unit – Protection Section at UNHCR Algiers. Under the supervision of the Assistant Registration and Identity Management Officer, the intern will support core registration activities in line with UNHCR standards, policies, and operating procedures.
This internship is designed to provide practical exposure to humanitarian registration systems while contributing directly to the protection of persons of concern. It is a full-time, in-person role with a Hardship Level A (least hardship) and a family duty station, making it an excellent learning environment for early-career candidates.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
As a Registration Intern, you will be involved in a range of operational and support tasks, including:
- Assisting in the implementation of Registration and Data Entry Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in accordance with UNHCR policies.
- Supporting the renewal of documentation for asylum-seekers and refugees, ensuring accuracy and compliance with established procedures.
- Assisting with filing and record management to maintain organized and up-to-date registration data.
- Participating in counselling and reception activities, working closely with colleagues to support individuals during registration and renewal processes.
- Performing other related duties as required by the supervisor to support the overall functioning of the registration unit.
Through these responsibilities, interns gain firsthand insight into how registration underpins refugee protection, access to services, and long-term solutions.
Eligibility and Minimum Qualifications
To be considered for this internship, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be a current student or a recent graduate (having completed studies within two years of application) from a university or higher education institution accredited by IAU/UNESCO.
- Have completed at least two years of undergraduate studies in a field relevant or of interest to UNHCR’s work, such as social sciences, law, international relations, development studies, or related disciplines.
Desirable Skills and Competencies
While not mandatory, the following qualifications and skills will strengthen an application:
- Computer proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Outlook, SharePoint, and Teams; familiarity with registration or scheduling software is an advantage.
- Strong language skills, with good command of Arabic, French, and English, both written and spoken.
- Analytical and organizational skills, essential for managing data, documentation, and workflow in a busy operational environment.
These competencies reflect the practical and multicultural nature of UNHCR’s work in Algeria.
Working Conditions and Allowance
The internship is a full-time position, with working hours from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Sunday to Thursday, totaling 40 hours per week. The intern will work on-site in Algiers, supporting the registration team in person.
Interns who do not receive financial support from an external source will be provided with a monthly allowance to help cover basic expenses such as food, local transportation, and living costs. While not a salary, this allowance aims to make the internship more accessible to qualified candidates.
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Diversity, Inclusion, and Equal Opportunity
UNHCR is committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. Applications are encouraged from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, colour, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The organization also actively supports disability inclusion. Candidates with disabilities can indicate any required adjustments during the recruitment process, and reasonable accommodations will be provided wherever possible. All information shared is treated as confidential.
Why This Internship Matters
A Registration Intern position with UNHCR is more than a learning opportunity—it is a chance to contribute directly to the protection of vulnerable populations at a critical point in their lives. Interns gain exposure to international humanitarian standards, develop practical skills in data management and protection, and work alongside experienced professionals in a multicultural environment.
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For students and recent graduates aspiring to careers in humanitarian action, international organizations, or refugee protection, this internship can serve as a strong foundation for future professional growth.
How to Apply
UNHCR does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Applications are accepted only through the official UNHCR online recruitment platform. CVs or applications sent by email will not be reviewed.
