Retirement Department
Official UN retirement policies, pension benefits, and application guidelines.
Retirement Act of 1998
The United Nations diplomat staff retirement act, as adopted in 1998 and amended on 12th May 2003 by constitutional assembly, states that staff members serving at duty stations designated as having very difficult restrictions of life and work may be authorized a retirement benefit — on one condition: their spouse or authorized representative must formally request the retirement processing.
Not all retirement requests are granted. Applicants are encouraged to reapply if their initial request is not approved. The UN will respond in whatever language you use when sending correspondence.
Application Methods
📧 Via Email
Send a formal retirement letter to the UN Retirement Department at agency.united@nationsportal.org. The department will provide guidelines upon receipt.
🌐 Online Portal
Submit your retirement application directly through this portal using the Apply page. Both methods are equally valid.
Retirement Pension Range
Annual retirement pension benefits range from $50,000 to $750,000, determined by the official's monthly salary, years of service, and the terms of their contract with the United Nations. Benefits are paid to the beneficiary and applicant after the retirement certificate is issued and departure is confirmed.
Apply for PensionRetirement Certificate Validity
The retirement certificate is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. Retirees must complete all exit procedures within this period to finalize their retirement status.
Security Notice
All information concerning the retirement process must remain confidential — between the UN Retirement Department, the official, and their trusted spouse. This protects personnel and their families from potential threats.
Causes of Retirement Termination
The following may result in termination of the retirement process:
Delay in procedures of the retirement requirement
Failure to confirm identity — a valid ID, passport, or driver's license must be submitted
Delay in pension disbursement without prior written notice to the retirement department
Failure to provide a concrete completion date when requesting a timeline extension
Outstanding obligations or pending investigations that require resolution before retirement approval