Indonesia’s bold, dynamic culture make the country a popular destination for expatriates. However, the process of obtaining the permits required to live and work in Indonesia legally can be complex, which might be a deterrent for some workers.

Indonesia no longer requires a separate Izin Mempekerjakan Tenaga Kerja Asing (IMTA). Employers generally need RPTKA approval and related immigration compliance to hire foreign employees, unless an exemption applies.

Types of work visas in Indonesia

Like most countries, Indonesia has a variety of visas available for international employees who wish to visit. There are two kinds of visas for individuals who plan to work in Indonesia:

  • Izin Tinggal Terbatas (ITAS): A limited-stay permit that allows a foreign national to live in Indonesia for an approved purpose. For employees, it is usually part of a broader work authorization process and does not automatically authorize work. Before an individual can get an ITAS, they will generally need a Visa Izin Tinggal Terbatas (VITAS), which is an Indonesian limited-stay visa.
  • Kartu Izin Tinggal Tetap (KITAP): A permanent-stay permit, KITAP may generally be available after 3 consecutive years on an ITAS/KITAS. Eligibility depends on sponsorship, permit category, passport validity, employment authorization, and current immigration rules.

Requirements to obtain Indonesia work visas

The employer and the employee will both need to submit numerous documents throughout the work visa application process.

Employers must provide:

  • A completed visa application form
  • A business license
  • Their NPWP number for tax identification
  • A business license issued by the Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM)
  • A copy of the sponsor’s ID card (KTP)
  • A copy of a local employee’s KTP
  • Mandatory Manpower (Wajib Lapor) report
  • Business Identification Number (NIB)
  • Certain documents within the application must have the letterhead of the company and a company stamp
  • Certificate of Company Domicile (SKDP)
  • The company’s deed establishment, authorized by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights

The documents to be provided by the employee include:

  • A copy of their passport, generally with at least 18 months’ remaining validity for a work-related limited-stay visa or KITAS application
  • Proof of health insurance
  • Passport photos in color
  • A copy of the employee’s highest degree of education, which must be stamped and signed by the employer
  • A copy of the applicant’s CV, which should also be stamped and signed
  • A work certificate or other evidence showing qualifications or competence relevant to the role. A fixed 5-year experience threshold should be checked against the specific job title and permit route.

Foreign nationals already in Indonesia generally should not expect to apply for a new e-Visa from inside the country to extend their stay. E-Visas are usually applied for before entry and activated on arrival. Eligible travelers may need to extend their current stay permit, apply for an allowed onshore status change, or leave and re-enter with a new visa. Once an individual’s residence permit expires, they must leave the country. However, those with a valid e-Visa may still apply for an ITAS.

Application process

In Indonesia, it is the employer’s responsibility to apply for an ITAS on behalf of prospective employees.

The employer begins the process by applying for a VITAS. Before doing so, they will need formal government approval. The employer must generally obtain approval for an Expatriate Placement Plan from the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower before employing a foreign worker. This plan is referred to as a Rencana Penggunaan Tenaga Kerja Asing (RPTKA).

Next, the employer can apply for the employee’s limited-stay visa and permit. The VITAS is granted upon the authorization of the Directorate General of Immigration in Jakarta. A common application can be submitted for the VITAS and the work permit, the ITAS. This application can be submitted at an Indonesian consulate or embassy.

The VITAS is usually available within a few business days after approval, often around 2 to 5 business days. The ITAS or e-ITAS is issued separately after entry and required local immigration steps, commonly within about 7 to 14 business days. The employee may then travel to Indonesia. Upon arrival, the employee should present their letter of approval for the ITAS to the immigration authorities. The authorities will then issue the ITAS.

Other important considerations

Work visas and work authorizations generally must be sponsored by an Indonesian-based employer or legal entity. The sponsor is usually an Indonesian company, branch, representative office, or other locally registered entity authorized to employ foreign workers. Companies without an established presence in Indonesia will be unable to sponsor employees.

It’s also important to consider that some employees will most likely be bringing family members along when they move to Indonesia. After the employee’s work permit has been authorized, the VITAS is extended to include the worker’s spouse and any children or legal dependents.

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At this moment, G-P does not offer support in the processing of work visas or permits in this particular location. For any other inquiries, contact us today.