Indonesia is increasingly attracting entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and other foreign workers seeking work in Indonesia. The Indonesian government has simplified visa types for working in Indonesia and introduced the Work Trial Visa (C18), allowing for a trial period for companies and workers before applying for a Working KITAS (E28). Companies looking to host student internships can also apply for a C22 Visa.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to obtaining a work permit in Indonesia, specifically for entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and foreign workers. We detail various visa options, including the Internship Visa (C22) for students, the Work Trial Visa (C18) for probationary periods, and the primary Working KITAS, which combines an IMTA (work permit) with a Limited Stay Permit.
We also clarify important regulations, such as the prohibition against freelancing and working for multiple companies, and outline the components and renewal process of a Working KITAS. Additionally, we address frequently asked questions to ensure a compliant and smooth transition for foreign workers in Indonesia.
At ILA Global Consulting, we have successfully assisted countless foreigners in obtaining a working visa in Indonesia. To effectively navigate these processes, it’s fundamental to understand the necessary documents to live in Bali. With our extensive experience in Indonesian immigration law, we ensure that the process meets all requirements and is seamless.
Work Permit Indonesia: What Are The Visas Available?
The process of obtaining a work permit in Indonesia is different from the process of obtaining a residence permit in Indonesia. Below, we’ll detail the various visas available, outlining their purpose, validity, and key considerations for foreign workers, remote workers, and digital nomads who need a visa in Indonesia.
1. Internship Visa (C22)
Students looking to apply for an internship in Indonesia can come to Indonesia with a C22 Visa. This visa is valid for:
- 60 days, extendable 2 times up to 180 days
- 180 days, extendable 1 time up to 360 days
The visa is ideal for companies seeking to hire overseas interns for up to 1 year, as it allows for visa extensions. However, this visa doesn’t allow the interns to receive wages or any reward. Other strategies and compensation can be provided. The company cannot provide any working or employment contract to the intern.
2. Work Trial Visa (C18)
To work legally in Bali or other regions of Indonesia, the Work Trial Visa allows foreigners to enter Indonesia for a 90-day work trial with a company, after which they can apply for a working permit. The worker, however, is unable to receive wages during this period and to perform any type of work except the one referred to in the work trial.
Please note that this visa is not extendable. If you need to switch to a working visa without leaving the country, you need a bridging visa.
3. Working KITAS
The Working KITAS comprises several components. The working permit is IMTA, and the limited stay permit is KITAS. While the first one is delivered by the Ministry of Manpower, the second one is granted by the immigration once the IMTA is approved. The KITAS validity follows the validity of the working permit for a period of 1 year.
The working permit is sponsored by a company registered in Indonesia. Depending on the area, there is a ratio of foreigners to local workers within the company. A company cannot hire only foreigners and must hire local people.
You can occupy only one job position in Indonesia and cannot work for other companies. You also can work only for the company sponsoring the work permit. Working for another company or as a freelancer can lead to deportation of the foreigner.
If you’re about to move to Indonesia with family, you need to consider many things more than the visa itself, for example, the housing, education, healthcare, and taxes.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| C22 Visa | An Internship Visa for foreign students or recent graduates coming to Indonesia for an internship. It does not permit receiving wages or a working contract. |
| C18 Visa | A Work Trial Visa that allows foreigners to enter Indonesia for a 90-day work trial period for a company. Workers are not allowed to receive wages or perform work beyond the scope of the trial. This visa is not extendable. |
| Working KITAS | The primary Limited Stay Permit (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) for foreigners working in Indonesia. It is composed of the IMTA (Work Permit) and the KITAS itself. |
| IMTA | Izin Mempekerjakan Tenaga Asing (Permission to Employ Foreign Workers). This is the actual work permit component of the Working KITAS, issued by the Ministry of Manpower. |
| KITAS | Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas (Limited Stay Permit). This is the residency permit granted by immigration, valid for a specific period (often 1 year) and tied to the IMTA for working purposes. |
| Bridging Visa | A specific visa type that allows a foreigner to convert their current visa (e.g., C18, C22, Tourist, Business) into a KITAS without having to leave Indonesia. |
How Can ILA Global Consulting Make Your Visa Process Easy?
Indonesia has so many visas to choose from, each with its own requirements, regulations, and duration. With more constantly being issued by the government, it can be hard to keep track and choose one that is right for you.
With our help, you can be sure that you’ll get the best visa for your needs as quickly and efficiently as possible without having to worry about any missing documents.
Whether you’re looking for an Investor KITAS, Working KITAS, Second Home Visa, Spouse KITAS, Multiple Entry Business Visa or Remote Worker Visa, we can help make the process efficient and smooth.
Schedule a free consultation today or learn more about the different visa options.
Have Questions About Work Permits in Indonesia? (FAQs)
To further clarify common points of confusion and ensure you’re fully informed, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding work permits in Indonesia. This section addresses key concerns that foreign workers often encounter.
1. Can I work as a freelancer in Bali?
You can’t work as a freelancer. Despite the promotion made by some agents, there is no freelance KITAS in Indonesia. Artists, Yoga teachers, or DJs must work for the sponsor of the KITAS. If there are any issues, the sponsor usually has no problem, and the foreigner will be the one facing immigration issues.
2. Can I work under a work trial visa?
You can’t work under a work trial visa. The work trial visa is for work trial job such as a test or interview.
3. Can I receive wages under a work trial visa in Indonesia?
You cannot receive wages under a work trial visa in Indonesia.
4. Can I renew my working KITAS, and for how long?
A working KITAS can be renewed at least 2 months before its expiration. The applicant must provide SKTT and proof of social security payment (BPJS).
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Freelance KITAS | A term often promoted by some agents, but it’s important to note that no such specific visa or KITAS type for independent freelance work exists in Indonesia’s immigration regulations. Foreigners must typically work under a sponsoring company. |
| Work Trial Visa (C18) | A visa allowing foreigners to perform a probationary work trial for a company for 90 days. During this period, the visa holder is *not* permitted to receive wages or engage in work outside the scope of the specific trial. |
| Working KITAS Renewal | The process of extending a valid Working KITAS (Limited Stay Permit) before its expiration, typically initiated at least 2 months prior. Requires specific documents like SKTT and proof of BPJS payment. |
| SKTT | Surat Keterangan Tempat Tinggal (Certificate of Domicile/Residence Certificate). An official document confirming a foreigner’s temporary residence in Indonesia, required for KITAS renewal and other administrative purposes. |
| BPJS | Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial (Social Security Administering Body). Refers to Indonesia’s national social security system, which includes health insurance (BPJS Kesehatan) and employment social security (BPJS Ketenagakerjaan). Proof of payment is often required for KITAS renewals. |
| Sponsor of the KITAS | The Indonesian company or entity that legally takes responsibility for a foreigner’s visa application (e.g., Working KITAS) and often their compliance with immigration and labor laws during their stay. For artists/yoga teachers/DJs, this refers to the entity they are officially working for. |
Navigating the complexities of obtaining a work permit in Indonesia requires a thorough understanding of various visa types, their specific requirements, and the latest regulations. From initial work trial visas to the comprehensive Working KITAS, each pathway has distinct rules.
For personalized guidance and expert assistance in securing your work permit in Indonesia, ensuring a smooth and compliant process, contact ILA Global Consulting today. Our experienced team is ready to help you navigate these regulations with ease.
