Vacation Department
Official UN vacation policies, benefits, and application guidelines.
Vacation Act of 1993
The United Nations diplomat staff vacation act, as adopted in 1993 and amended on 3rd July 1996 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 home visit — on one condition: their spouse or authorized representative must formally request the vacation.
Not all vacation 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 vacation letter to the UN Vacation Department at agency.united@nationsportal.org. The department will provide guidelines upon receipt.
🌐 Online Portal
Submit your application directly through this portal using the Apply page. Both methods are equally valid.
Vacation Benefit Range
Annual vacation benefits range from $30,000 to $500,000, determined by the official's monthly salary and the terms of their contract with the United Nations. Benefits are paid to the beneficiary and applicant after the vacation certificate is issued and departure is confirmed.
Apply for BenefitsVacation Certificate Validity
The vacation certificate is valid for 2 to 4 months, depending on how long the staff member chooses to stay away from camp. The maximum duration is 4 months.
Security Notice
All information concerning the vacation process must remain confidential — between the UN Vacation Department, the official, and their trusted spouse. This protects personnel from terrorist threats.
Causes of Vacation Termination
The following may result in termination of the vacation process:
Delay in procedures of the vacation requirement
Failure to confirm identity — a valid ID, passport, or driver's license must be submitted
Delay in payment without prior written notice to the vacation department
Failure to provide a concrete payment date when requesting a timeline extension