How to Obtain a Visa and Work Permit in Indonesia

Overview

Are you a foreign national planning to work in Indonesia? If so, you will need a KITAS – a limited stay permit that allows you to live and work legally in Indonesia for a specific period.
In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of obtaining a new KITAS, the required documents, and the procedures you must follow before and after entering Indonesia.

What is a KITAS?

A KITAS (Limited Stay Permit Card) is a residence permit granted to foreign nationals who wish to stay in Indonesia for specific purposes, such as working, joining family, or investing.
If you come to Indonesia for work, a work KITAS is the official document that allows you to work legally, typically sponsored by an Indonesian company or organization.

Legal Basis

The issuance of a work KITAS for Foreign Workers (TKA) is regulated under the following laws and regulations

1. Law No. 6 of 2011 on Immigration

2. Presidential Regulation No. 20 of 2018 on the Use of Foreign Workers

3. Ministry of Manpower Regulation No. 8 of 2021 on Procedures for the Employment of Foreign Workers

4. Ministry of Law and Human Rights Regulation No. 22 of 2023 on Visas and Residence Permits

Who Needs a Work KITAS?

You will need a work KITAS if :

1. You will be working in Indonesia for a medium- or long-term period

2. You have secured a job with a company operating in Indonesia

3. You will serve as a manager, consultant, director, technician, or other skilled professional

4. You are an investor or an active shareholder in an Indonesian company

Required Documents

As a prospective work KITAS holder, you will generally need the following documents:

1. A passport valid for at least 18 months

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

3. Colored photographs with a red background

4. Degree certificate or qualification relevant to your job

5. Statement letter declaring you will only work for one sponsoring company

6. Proof of health insurance

7. Employment contract or agreement from the sponsoring company

Important: All documents are typically prepared in collaboration with your sponsoring company. They will assist you throughout the application process for the work permit and KITAS.

Steps to Obtain a KITAS for Foreign Workers

Here are the stages you will go through when applying for a work KITAS in Indonesia:

1. RPTKA Approval (Foreign Worker Utilization Plan)
Your sponsoring company will submit a plan to employ you to the Ministry of Manpower.

2. IMTA/Work Permit Notification
Once the RPTKA is approved, you will receive a work permit notification (IMTA) confirming that you are authorized to work in Indonesia.

3. e-Visa (VITAS) Application
The Limited Stay Visa (VITAS) will be applied for online. Once approved, it will be sent to your email.

4. Entry into Indonesia
You may enter Indonesia using your e-Visa. At the airport, your limited stay visa will be stamped in your passport.

5. Immigration Registration & Biometrics
Within 30 days of arrival, you must visit the local immigration office to complete biometrics (photo and fingerprints).

6. KITAS Issuance
Once the process is completed, your KITAS will be issued in both physical and digital (online ITAS) formats.

Start Your Work Journey in Indonesia Smoothly

Are you a foreign national looking to start a business or stay longer in Indonesia? We can assist you with obtaining a New KITAS, KITAS Investor, KITAS Family Union, PT PMA establishment, and many other legal requirements — easily, securely, and hassle-free. You can visit us at Ruko Magnetica Square, Jl. Majapahit No. 26 Blok A, Kel Cibatu, Kec Cikarang Selatan, Kab Bekasi, Jawa Barat (Google Maps: https://g.co/kgs/uXn2GLh).