Indonesia: Scrutiny Increased for Indonesian Language Training Requirements for Foreign Workers

Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower (MoM) has been placing greater emphasis on employers’ compliance with Indonesian language education and training requirements for foreign workers. This suggests potentially closer scrutiny of the requirements, despite no formal changes to work permit application procedures. 

Under the current policy, employers must facilitate Indonesian language education and training for foreign workers, either independently or in cooperation with an approved educational institution or Indonesian language training institution. Exemptions apply to directors and commissioners, heads of representative offices, members of governing, executive and supervisory boards, and foreign workers undertaking temporary work.  

Employers should review their compliance arrangements, identify foreign workers subject to the requirement and facilitate appropriate training, taking into account applicable accreditation requirements. They should also retain records of training arrangements, enrolment, attendance and completion, and prepare foreign workers to answer related questions during work permit renewals. Employers are not currently required to submit proof of training completion with their applications.  

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.