What languages are used at the IMF?
A. The working language of the Fund is English, and verbal and written proficiency in this language is therefore essential. Nonetheless, we would like to reassure non-native English speakers that their English does not have to be perfect, but it does need to be good enough to draft papers and to carry out technical discussions and negotiations with government officials. As the IMF is an international organization, there are, of course, many positions in areas such as Language Services that require knowledge of languages other than English (Arabic, Chinese, French, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish are typically the most useful). A facility for learning languages is also an asset. The IMF provides language instruction for staff so that they can be more effective in their work.
