If you’re considering working in Indonesia, securing an Indonesia work visa is important. This comprehensive guide breaks down the steps and requirements involved in obtaining an Indonesian work visa and work permit.
Applying for an Indonesian Work Visa: Step-by-Step
- Employer Approval:
- Your employer needs to obtain approval to hire you from the Indonesian government, known as the “Expatriate Placement Plan” (RPTKA).
- RPTKA is acquired from the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower.
- Work Permit Application (IMTA):
- Your employer applies for your Indonesia work permit (IMTA), or “Permission to Employ Foreign Workers,” submitted to the Ministry of Manpower.
- Document Submission:
- Provide your employer with necessary documents, including work and education certificates, passport copy, etc.
- Limited Stay Work Visa (VITAS) Application:
- Your employer applies for a Limited/Temporary Stay Work Visa (VITAS) at the Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM).
- BKPM issues a Recommendation Letter to the Indonesian Immigration Department.
- Embassy/Consulate Application:
- Apply for an Indonesian work visa (VITAS) at the nearest Embassy/Consulate with copies of RPTKA and IMTA.
- Arrival and Permit Issuance:
- Upon arrival in Indonesia with VITAS, the Immigration Department issues your Temporary Stay Permit (ITAS), allowing you to live and work for up to a year.
- KITAS Application:
- Visit an Immigration Office to apply for your KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit Card).
- Additional Processes:
- Obtain the Police Report Letter (STM) from the police department.
- Register with the local municipality’s population office for a Certificate of Registration for Temporary Resident (SKPPS).
- Ministry of Manpower Visit:
- Apply for the Foreign Workers Work Permit (IKTA) at the Ministry of Manpower.
- KITAS Renewal:
- Renew your KITAS before it expires.
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Documents Required for Indonesia Work Visa:
RPTKA Application:
Applying for an RPTKA (Rencana Penggunaan Tenaga Kerja Asing) involves a few important steps and requires specific documents. Here’s a breakdown to guide you through the process:
RPTKA Application Process:
- RPTKA Application Form:
- Start by obtaining and filling out the RPTKA application form. This form serves as the initial step in the process, requiring details about the foreign worker, their intended role, and other relevant information.
- Employer’s Letter of Explanation:
- Your employer is typically required to provide a letter explaining the rationale behind hiring foreign workers. This letter should outline the specific skills or expertise the foreign employee brings to the company and why it is essential for the role.
- Company Documents:
- Include essential company documents to support the RPTKA application. This may involve providing the company’s legal documentation, such as registration certificates, business licenses, and any other pertinent records demonstrating the legitimacy of the employing company.
- Organizational Structure:
- Present a clear organizational structure of the company. This helps authorities understand the hierarchical setup and how the foreign worker fits into the overall framework of the organization.
- Annual Reports:
- Submit the company’s annual reports. These reports offer insights into the company’s financial health, growth, and overall performance. Authorities may review this information to ensure the company can support the employment of foreign workers.
- Letter of Recommendation (Industry-Specific):
- In certain industries, a letter of recommendation may be required. This letter can come from relevant industry associations or regulatory bodies, endorsing the need for foreign expertise in the specified role.
Why These Documents Matter:
- Legal Compliance:
- The RPTKA application process is designed to ensure that the hiring of foreign workers complies with the legal requirements of the host country.
- Transparency:
- Providing detailed company documents and organizational structure promotes transparency, allowing authorities to understand the nature and scale of the employing entity.
- Justification for Hiring:
- The employer’s letter of explanation and industry-specific recommendations serve as justifications for hiring foreign workers, demonstrating the necessity of their skills or expertise in the local context.
- Financial Viability:
- Annual reports are crucial in assessing the financial health of the company, ensuring it has the capacity to support foreign employees without compromising its stability.
IMTA Application:
When applying for an IMTA (Izin Mempekerjakan Tenaga Asing) in Indonesia, there are several important documents you need to gather. Here’s a more detailed look at each requirement to help you navigate the application process:
IMTA Application Requirements:
- RPTKA (Rencana Penggunaan Tenaga Kerja Asing):
- Begin by obtaining the RPTKA, which is essentially a plan detailing the use of foreign workers. This plan outlines the specific roles and reasons for hiring foreign employees within the company.
- Copy of Your Passport:
- Include a clear copy of your passport, ensuring that all details, including personal information and expiration date, are visible. This is a standard requirement for identification purposes.
- Proof of Education and Relevant Work Experience:
- Provide documentation that verifies your education credentials and any relevant work experience. This could include diplomas, certificates, or transcripts that demonstrate your qualifications for the intended job.
- Certificate of Work Experience:
- Submit a certificate detailing your work experience. This document typically outlines your previous employment history, roles undertaken, and the duration of your professional experience.
- Insurance Policy Proof:
- Include proof of your insurance policy. This demonstrates that you have coverage for health or any other required insurance during your employment in Indonesia.
- Social Security Policy and Tax Identification Number (If Working for Over Six Months):
- If your intended work period in Indonesia is longer than six months, you may need to provide proof of your Social Security policy and Tax Identification Number (NPWP). These are essential for compliance with local regulations.
- DPKK (Skill & Development Fund) Fee Payment Proof:
- Include proof of payment for the DPKK (Dana Pengembangan Keahlian dan Keterampilan) fee, also known as the Skill & Development Fund. This fee contributes to the development of skills and expertise within the local workforce.
Why Each Document Matters:
- Legal Compliance:
- The IMTA application process ensures that hiring foreign workers aligns with legal requirements, promoting fair employment practices.
- Qualifications Verification:
- Documents such as proof of education and work experience certificates help verify your qualifications for the specific job, ensuring you meet the necessary criteria.
- Health and Security:
- Insurance policy proof is crucial for your well-being, providing coverage for potential health-related issues during your stay in Indonesia.
- Social Security and Tax Compliance:
- Social Security and Tax Identification Numbers are essential for ensuring compliance with local regulations and contributing to the social security system.
- Skill & Development Fund Contribution:
- Payment of the DPKK fee demonstrates your contribution to the development of local skills and expertise, reinforcing the positive impact of foreign workers on the host country’s workforce.
By diligently providing these documents, you contribute to a transparent and lawful application process, ensuring that your employment in Indonesia is not only legally compliant but also beneficial to the local community.
KITAS Application: From the employer:
- Copy of the RPTKA.
- Copy of sponsor’s identity card (KTP).
- Relevant company documents.
From the applicant:
- Coloured copy of passport.
- CV with company stamp and director’s signature.
- University certificate/s.
- Insurance policy proof.
- Passport-size photographs.
Additional for Family Members:
- Passport scans.
- Marriage and birth certificates (translated if necessary).
- Passport-size photographs.
Indonesia Work Visa Duration and Extensions:
- Initial Indonesia work visa validity: 3 months to one year.
- KITAS can be renewed before expiry.
- After three consecutive years with KITAS, eligible for Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Indonesia Work Visa
- Is the RPTKA always required for an Indonesia work visa?
- No, certain positions like stakeholders, diplomats, or government roles may not necessitate an RPTKA.
- How long does the Indonesia work visa application process take?
- The process is typically lengthy and bureaucratic, spanning several months.
- Can the Indonesia work visa be extended?
- Yes, it can be extended before its expiration date.
- Can family members accompany me with an Indonesia work visa?
- Yes, dependent family members can apply for visas simultaneously.
- Can my spouse work with dependent status on an Indonesia work visa?
- No, a spouse requires a separate work permit from a different employer.
- What documents are needed for an Indonesia work visa application?
- For RPTKA: Application form, employer letter, company documents, organizational structure, and recommendation letter (if applicable).
- For IMTA: RPTKA, passport copy, proof of education and experience, work certificate, insurance policy, and DPKK fee payment proof.
- For KITAS: Various documents from employer and applicant, including passport copies, CV, university certificates, insurance proof, and photographs.
- How long is the Indonesia work visa valid?
- The initial validity ranges from 3 months to one year. KITAS, the Temporary Stay Permit Card, can be renewed before expiration.
- Can I work legally in Indonesia with a KITAS?
- Yes, KITAS grants the holder legal permission to work in Indonesia.
- How do I transition from KITAS to KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit)?
- After residing in Indonesia for three consecutive years with a KITAS, you can apply for KITAP, which is valid for five years and renewable.
- Can I bring my family members with an Indonesia work visa?
- Yes, you and your dependent family members can apply for Indonesian visas simultaneously.