Bali is one of the top world hubs for digital nomads and remote workers. But would you like to experience working here among real professionals and help develop new products and services?
An internship can be the start of a successful career and if moving abroad is something you’re considering after university, you should explore internships in Bali with our simple guide.
We have been observing the jobs market of the island for years and are happy to share some helpful tips and suggest a few firms that may be looking for an intern this year.
Things You Need To Know Before Applying For an Internship, Bali
The official language is Indonesian, however, if you’re applying to work in a foreign-owned company, you may not use it that much and all communications will be in English. You don’t have to speak Indonesian fluently to apply.
All countries are welcome to apply. Students and graduates from all over the world, from New Zealand and Australia to Germany, and even Mexico join internship programs in Bali.
Not all sectors are open to foreigners. The beauty industry, as well as some creative professions, are mostly reserved for the national workforce. Tourism is one of the most competitive and hard-to-get-into industries.
You have to be at least 18 years old to apply for the majority of the programs.
There is no dedicated intern visa but you can’t secure a Bali internship on a tourist visa. The way it works is you need to find a reputable company or agency that will arrange an invitation and working permit (social culture visa) for you. Immigration law in Indonesia is very strict.
Indonesia has a 40-hour work week that can translate into 5 or 6 days of work based on the company’s policy. Certain firms have a formal professional dress code but not all, and some will allow you to work from home or a co-working space.
Can Foreigners Join Internship Programs In Bali?
Foreigners in Bali are allowed to apply for internship programs and even get hired in sectors that do not take available jobs from the local community.
What Industries Offer Internships in Bali?
Law, hospitality, marketing, and business development are common fields in which internship placement is offered in Bali.
Management and consulting firms, as well as any startup, can greatly benefit from interns with international experience and strong education.
Small businesses like fashion brands, boutique resorts, marketing, and travel agencies are usually looking for someone to help them with social media and content. If those are your interests you can get a spot and even work remotely (within the island).
Helping a nonprofit organization will be most likely considered volunteering and require a special work permit too.
Do Foreign Interns Get Paid In Bali?
All foreign internship programs are unpaid, and foreign students are not getting paid. However, your inviting company may take care of some of your expenses and the position may come with certain benefits.
According to Indonesia’s labour laws, foreign interns are not allowed to have a salary no matter their experience, field, or nationality.
Companies In Bali Offering Internships
A few companies in Bali are known to take young professionals on board and have an internship program.
However, most companies will not list available internships on their website to make sure all the students go through reputable agencies and secure proper visas.
FINNS – the world’s best beach club has a large team covering many sectors and internships will be available via agencies.
IBUKU Architecture & Design Firm sometimes opens a few spots for interns with relevant degrees.
Bali Internships website has a catalogue of open internship placements and they also offer guidance to help you choose the best option for you.
Indo Ocean Project hosts dive programs that include marine life conservation. It is a great way to have a meaningful impact.
Agencies Helping You Become An Intern In Bali
There are also Bali internships offered through agencies, that take care of your stay in Bali from accommodation to field trips and excursions, and help you secure a certificate proving your participation.
The programmes may range from fashion to sustainability to food science and are a great opportunity for students to take advantage of summer break.
Going via an agency might come with a pretty high cost per week.
Useful Tips To Secure Your Dream Internship Placement
There are a few things that graduates can do to make sure they join the best-experienced team and find a spot to grow professionally and pursue their passion.
Do your homework before the interview, it doesn’t matter if it will be online or in the office. Research the company you are applying to, and maybe even speak to your future colleagues. You should have at least a basic understanding of what the company does and how you can assist.
Edit and adapt your resume and cover letter to each application to make sure you highlight relevant experience and knowledge. Sending out template resumes or applications may tell HR that you aren’t that interested in joining the team.
Seek support either from friends in relevant industries or from an agency that works with interns. They can review your resume and help you find the best program based on your personal educational and career path.
If looking for a Bali internship through an agency, talk to other interns and alumni who have found placement through that agency in the past. It may give you a better perspective on what to expect.
How To Apply For An Internship Program in Bali
Do Your Homework
Do your own research on prominent companies in Bali and make a shortlist. Not all companies accept international interns. OR connect with an agency specialising in Bali internships.
Start the process at least 3 months before you plan to come and do an internship program in Bali.
Work On Your CV
Prepare your resume, and cover letter, and draft a budget. Many internship programs in Bali require an upfront payment, especially if they include accommodation or activities.
Plan When You Go
Make sure you have time in your academic year to join the program. If you didn’t graduate yet, make an agreement with your university so they allow you to join a program overseas. However, the good news is that some agencies have summer internships in Bali.
Have Recommendations
Ask for recommendations from either your previous employers or your professors.
Having recommendations helps to stand out and showcase your commitment either to a specific field or, in general, your work ethic.
Get Ready For The Interview
It will be most likely an online interview over Zoom, and normally it takes 20-30 minutes. The focus will be your CV and your skills but you’re more than welcome to ask questions.
Follow up
If applying via an agency, the outcome may be known in less than 3 days, but working with a company directly may take longer. Try to set a timeframe during the interview and if not, follow up after 1 week.
Get Ready
Once you’re accepted, prepare to travel to Bali, research what you need to pack, and book tickets in advance.
Final Thoughts On Bali Internships
For decades, Bali has been a place for surf bums and vacationers, but underneath that laid-back layer, there are dozens of small businesses and companies looking for initiative students and future employees hungry for growth.
An internship in Bali is a unique, somehow exotic, opportunity to work with complex tasks that require creativity, thinking outside the box, and a modern approach.
And who knows, maybe connecting to Bali’s culture and weekend trips will become your favourite parts of your workation here and you decide to stay and find a full-time job in paradise.
Read more:
Teaching English In Bali: Everything You Need To Know To Land Teaching Jobs On The Island
