Many foreigners arrive in Indonesia to simply enjoy a holiday. They explore the country, experiencing local life, and perhaps even discover some business opportunities or a way to share their skills. Before they know it, they’re essentially working in Indonesia without a proper working visa.
This accidental scenario is more common than you might think. What happens when an extended stay turns into a desire to work and build a life here? Is it possible to seamlessly transition from tourist to worker?
Working KITAS for Legal Protection
The answer is yes, but only if you follow the correct legal channels. What starts as a casual conversation or a small freelance project can quickly evolve into a more regular income stream. However, to be legally able to do that, a foreigner needs Indonesia’s Working KITAS (In Bahasa, it’s a short for Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas).
It’s a limited stay permit, so it’s distinct from a tourist visa. Working KITAS allows foreigners to reside and work in Indonesia legally, opening doors to various opportunities and important legal protections.
What happens if you don’t have a Working KITAS? Working illegally in Indonesia carries significant risks.
Based on Immigration Law No. 6 of 2011, if foreigners carry out activities that are not in accordance with the intent and purpose of granting a residence permit, they can be subject to hefty fines, deportation, and even being banned from re-entering the country.
Benefits of Working KITAS
Besides being your official residence and work permit, a Working KITAS also comes with some other benefits, including:
• Access to health care: Because every worker in Indonesia is required to be enrolled in the BPJS health care and employment program (that’s the Social Security Administering Agency).
• Access to banking: With a KITAS, foreign workers can open a local bank account. This makes getting paid and doing other banking transactions way easier.
• Residency permits for family members: Working KITAS holders can apply for residency permits so their families can live in Indonesia too.
• Easier time getting other documents: Like when you need to get an Indonesian tax ID number or a driver’s license, for example.
Restrictions for Foreign Workers in Indonesia
Working in Indonesia can open up a lot of doors for your career. But there are also some limitations for foreign workers when it comes to certain job positions, including:
1. Human Resource Manager
2. Industrial Relation Manager
3. Personnel Recruitment Supervisor
4. Employee Career Development Supervisor
5. Job and Career Advisor and Counseling
6. Job Training Administrator
7. Occupational Safety Specialist
There are actually a bunch of other positions that, according to the Minister of Manpower Regulation Number 349 of 2019, foreigners aren’t allowed to fill. So, before you accept a job offer, it’s a good idea to double-check whether the position you’re going for is in line with Indonesian laws and regulations.
Documents Required to Get Working KITAS
Getting your Indonesian Working KITAS involves several steps, and each requires specific documentation. The first hurdle is securing the RPTKA (Foreign Workers Recruitment Plan) and the IMTA (Expatriate Working Permit Letter).
Your prospective employer is responsible for obtaining these from the Ministry of Manpower. After these are in hand, you can focus on your personal documents. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
• A valid passport
• Proof of BPJS health insurance enrollment
• Documentation showing your registered address in Indonesia
• Certified copies of your academic degrees
• An up-to-date CV
One important financial aspect to consider is the Expertise and Skills Development Fund payment, which amounts to USD 1200 per year or USD 100 per month.
Start Your Indonesian Adventure with Us
Yes, gathering all the necessary documents for a Working KITAS can seem like a lot. And that’s precisely why Seven Stones Indonesia is here to make things easier.
As your trusted local expert, we can streamline the application process, eliminating the hassle and uncertainty. We’re always informed about the latest regulations, so you can focus on what matters most: your career. Text us via WhatsApp +62 877-7711-7701 or email to [email protected] to begin your Indonesian adventure.
