Indonesia: Work Permit Processing Delays at the Ministry of Manpower

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower is currently experiencing delays in processing work permit applications due to a corruption investigation involving several former officials who oversaw work authorization procedures. The disruption has impacted the issuance of both the Foreign Manpower Utilization Plan (RPTKA) and the Notification (Notifikasi) - documents that jointly comprise the work permit required for foreign nationals to work in Indonesia. Processing times have now extended to one month or more, up from the standard 10–12 working days. As a result, foreign nationals applying for work authorization in Indonesia and their employers may encounter delays in assignment start dates and prolonged waiting periods abroad, as these approvals are required prior to entry and commencement of employment in the country. Fragomen is informing affected applicants of possible delays and will report on relevant developments.