TOP > OVERSEAS FIELD WORK WITH MSF JAPAN > FAQ

FAQ

Q. Do you recruit only doctors or nurses?
: A. MSF recruits also many non-medical staff from various fields. Examples include
-administrators (responsible for financial control, human resources management, legal affairs, staff training, etc.)
-logisticians (provide technical and operational support in various fields e.g. purchase/ transport of supplies and medicines, communication, mechanic, generator, construction, vehicles, water and sanitation, security management, etc.)
Q. Can I work with MSF if I am only available for less than six months?
: A. MSF requires basically a commitment of 6-12 months. The minimum commitment for administrators is basically one year; surgeons and anesthesiologists may be accepted for a minimum of six weeks in the field. For experienced expatriate, volunteering in a short-term mission (less than 6 months), such as emergency assistance or vaccination campaign, is accepted.
Q. How long does the recruitment process take?
: A. It may take from a few weeks to several months depending on various factors including your conditions and vacant field positions. Your registration doesn't mean that you will be able to go on a mission immediately. For the recruitment process, refer to the "How to Apply" page.
Q. I have applied to join MSF before but was not accepted. Can I apply again? What chance do I have to be accepted?
: A. In cases where you have gained more experience or skills since you last applied it may well be worth your while applying again. There are also cases where field needs change over time so we now might be looking to recruit people with different profiles. Some candidates have had several interviews over a number of years before they have been accepted. If you are considering applying after a previous rejection please contact the Recruitment team and discuss your situation.
Q. What level of language skills do you expect for expatriate?
: A. Communication skills in one of English, French or Spanish are essential: you are expected to work in these languages. Specifically, you are expected to understand others and express your opinion at meetings. Administrators need a higher level of language skills: their duties include negotiating with other organizations or local authorities, and reading and preparing legal documents.

Q. Is there an age limit for volunteering with MSF?
: A. MSF has no prescribed limit. However, physical and mental fitness to cope with tough conditions are essential.
Q. Can I decide where I want to be assigned?
: A. No. MSF places staff on assignment based on the needs in the field and your experience. The final decision will be made with your consent e.g. considering security condition of the field.
Q. Does MSF accept a study tour or internship?
: A. No. MSF aims to concentrate on the activities in the field, thus we don't accept any study tour or internship.
Q. What if I am injured or become ill during the mission?
: A. MSF provides your insurance during mission which covers medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, death, and disability compensation. In addition, you are insured by Government-managed social insurances: health insurance, welfare pension, unemployment insurance, and workers' accident compensation insurance (except for expatriates going on mission for less than 2 months).
Q. Can I have access to Internet, e-mail, and telephone in the field? Can I receive personal letters or parcels in the field?
: A. You can communicate with your family in case of emergency.
Communication circumstance varies by countries or area: for example, internet access is mostly available in a capital, but it is not guaranteed in remote areas. In addition, MSF prioritizes communications to provide assistance to people in need. You can receive letters or packages up to 1 kg in the field, however, you should keep in mind that other MSF expatriates deliver yours as extra baggage.
Q. Do I need to quit or take a leave from my current job before going on a mission?
: A. It depends on the person. Some field expatriates take a leave with the consent of employer, others quit their job to volunteer with MSF.
Q. What are the career options for expatriates after going on a mission ?
: A. It also depends on the person; going back to the previous job, finding a new job, leaving for another mission with MSF or volunteering/working with MSF for a long time may all be options. Some people in Europe work with MSF for over 25 years!