As foreign workers in Indonesia rises, more foreigners will need to obtain the Working KITAS, a crucial permit that allows them to live and work legally in the country. This visa is integral for foreign nationals seeking employment, as it ensures compliance with Indonesian immigration laws and provides access to various job opportunities.
Understanding the process of obtaining a Working KITAS is essential for foreign workers, as it can significantly impact their ability to contribute to Indonesia’s economy. According to the Indonesian Central Statistics Agency (BPS), there were 168,000 foreign workers in Indonesia in 2023, highlighting the growing demand for this essential permit.
2023 Data of Foreign Workers in Indonesia
In 2023, Indonesia experienced a notable rise in foreign workers, with Chinese nationals being the most dominant among the 168,000 individuals. Here are some key statistics:
- China: 82,623 workers (most dominant)
- Japan: 15,961 workers (ranked second)
- South Korea: 15,660 workers (ranked third)
- Contributions from Japan and South Korea are strong in:
- Automotive
- Technology
- Manufacturing
- Contributions from Japan and South Korea are strong in:
- India: 8,747 workers (primarily in information technology and technical specialties)
- Malaysia: 5,794 workers
- Philippines: 4,742 workers
- United States: 3,585 workers
- United Kingdom: 3,086 workers
- Australia: 2,892 workers
- Singapore: 2,090 workers (ranked tenth)
Overall, Asia remains the primary source of foreign labor in Indonesia, followed by contributions from the Americas, Europe, and Oceania. With this upward trend, the numbers are predicted to increase in the coming years.
Aditionally the Indonesian Central Statistics Agency also reported that the majority of foreign workers in Indonesia were employed in the service sector, with 82,649 individuals, followed closely by the industrial sector at 80,661.
In contrast, the agriculture and maritime sectors employed only 4,738 foreign workers. This distribution highlights the significant concentration of foreign labor in services and industry compared to other sectors.
Why Foreign Workers in Indonesia Need a Working KITAS
As mentioned before, obtaining a Working KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Alih Sementara) is essential for legal employment. The Working KITAS is specifically designed for foreign workers, distinguishing it from other visa types, such as the Investor KITAS, which does not permit employment.
Foreign nationals who do not comply may face administrative sanctions, including deportation. Moreover, if they intentionally misuse their residence permits, they could face imprisonment for up to 5 years and fines of up to IDR 500 million. Authorities emphasize the importance of securing permits like the Working KITAS to maintain a fair labor market.
Requirements for Obtaining a Working KITAS
Before applying for a Working KITAS, foreign workers must first secure approval from Indonesia’s Minister of Manpower. This involves obtaining two essential documents: the RPTKA (Foreign Workers Recruitment Plan) and the IMTA (Expatriate Working Permit Letter). Once these documents are acquired, they are submitted to the Immigration Office, which will then process the KITAS application.
To obtain a Working KITAS, foreign workers must meet several specific requirements:
- Enrollment in BPJS Ketenagakerjaan: Foreign workers are required to enroll in the Employment Social Security System (BPJS Ketenagakerjaan). This program provides essential protections, including health and safety benefits.
- Personal Health Insurance: In addition to BPJS, foreign workers must have personal health insurance to cover any medical expenses during their stay in Indonesia.
- Validity Period: The Working KITAS is typically valid for either 6 months or 1 year, depending on the specific employment contract and circumstances.
- Additional Fees: There is an additional fee of USD 100 per month for the Employment Social Security System (ESDD), which must be factored into the overall cost of obtaining the permit.
Meeting these requirements is crucial for foreign employees to work legally in Indonesia. By ensuring compliance, foreign workers can enjoy a smooth and lawful employment experience in the country.
Applying for a Working KITAS Made Simple
Navigating the legal framework for foreign employment in Indonesia, particularly when applying for the Working KITAS, can be quite complex. Understanding the regulations and ensuring compliance is essential for both foreign workers and employers to avoid severe penalties.
With a knowledgeable team that thoroughly understands immigration laws, Seven Stones Indonesia can simplify your working visa application process, saving you valuable time. Don’t let the complexities of immigration procedures hinder your plans. Contact Seven Stones Indonesia today to ensure a smooth and efficient working experience in Indonesia.
Source: goodstats.id, hukumonline.com
Image: annstills/canva
