Visa and Protocol Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO's mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, contributing to the 2030 Agenda. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice, technical assistance, and support to countries, ensuring effective operations aligned with international standards of accountability. They advocate for policies, assist in resource mobilization, and deliver core services to strengthen agrifood systems.

Job Overview:
The Visa and Protocol Specialist will be responsible for managing all visa, residency, and protocol-related matters for FAO Nepal staff and official visitors. This role involves facilitating visa and residency processes, ensuring compliance with government regulations, and maintaining updated records of visa statuses. The specialist will also serve as the main liaison with national authorities, coordinate diplomatic courtesies, and support the organization of official events. The position requires a proactive approach to managing relationships with embassies and consulates to expedite visa processing and enhance protocol support for international travel assignments. The specialist will provide administrative and advisory support to FAO staff and visiting personnel, ensuring they are informed about travel requirements and host country procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Visa and Protocol Specialist will perform a variety of duties, including: facilitating visa, residence, and work permit processes for FAO staff and visitors; ensuring compliance with government regulations; maintaining records of visa statuses; supporting residency and housing arrangements; serving as the main contact with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other authorities; coordinating diplomatic courtesies and protocol clearances; assisting with the organization of official ceremonies and visits; maintaining relationships with embassies and consulates; advising staff on visa categories and travel requirements; and developing Standard Operating Procedures for international travel assignments. The specialist will also assist with customs clearance and administrative arrangements for official events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in international relations, Public Administration, Political Science, or a related field. They should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in visa, protocol, or administrative liaison functions, preferably with a UN agency, international organization, or diplomatic mission. A working knowledge of English and Nepali is essential, and candidates must be nationals of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate proven experience in dealing with government offices and possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as international relations, Public Administration, or Political Science. Candidates should ensure that their educational qualifications are recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in visa, protocol, or administrative liaison functions. Experience working with a UN agency, international organization, or diplomatic mission is preferred. Proven experience in dealing with government offices, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Department of Immigration, is essential.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and Nepali is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time work, and candidates should be aware that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications from accredited institutions. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.