To legally employ foreign workers in Bali, employers must understand and navigate the Indonesian regulations for work permits and stay permits. The key to compliance involves obtaining the necessary documents, including a Work Permit (IMTA) and a Limited Stay Permit (KITAS). Often, the term KITAS is used to refer to the work permit, though it technically refers to the stay permit.
Key Documents and Processes
- Work Permit (IMTA): This permit, officially known as ‘Notification’, is secured by the employer from the Ministry of Manpower, which allows the foreign national to work for a specific company in Indonesia.
- Limited Stay Permit (KITAS): This permit, obtained from the Indonesian Immigration Office, allows the foreign national to reside in Indonesia for an extended period for employment purposes. A KITAS is typically valid for 6 months or 12 months and can be extended.
Steps to Obtain a Work KITAS
The application process for a Working KITAS in Bali involves multiple steps that should begin approximately six weeks before the intended start date of employment:
- RPTKA Approval (Employment Plan): The sponsoring company must first secure an RPTKA (Employment Plan Approval) through the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower. A brief Skype interview with a Manpower officer may be required to verify the intended work role and duration.
- IMTA Notification and Payment: Once the RPTKA is secured, the company obtains the IMTA notification and makes the required payments.
- Visa Application: With the IMTA in hand, the foreign employee can apply for a visa to enter Indonesia.
- KITAS Acquisition: Upon arrival in Indonesia with the correct visa, the KITAS can be finalized.
Requirements for Obtaining a Work Visa KITAS
a. From the Applicant:
- a passport that is valid for at least six months.
- Letters of recommendation for the previous five years of employment.
- A bachelor’s degree or an English-language certificate from a professional specialist.
- Health Insurance.
- Color photo as for documents.
- Bank account statement with a minimum balance.
- The name of your job title within the organization.
- Address in Bali.
b. From the Company-Employer (scanned copies):
- Akta notary, SK Kemenkumham, NIB.
- PKKPR.
- Standard Certificate (based on company activities).
- Details Profile (Ratification of Establishment).
- NPWP.
- Director’s ID/passport.
- ID of local employees (minimum 10).
- Address, email, phone number, and stamp on business letterhead.
Important Considerations
- Validity and Extension: In Indonesia, a work visa normally lasts six or twelve months, though it may be extended. Visa extension procedures should commence no later than one month before the current visa’s expiration.
- Cost: The cost of a working KITAS for 6 months starts from IDR 9 million plus USD 600 state tax, while a 1-year KITAS starts from IDR 13 million plus USD 1200 state tax.
- Illegal Practices: Engaging foreign workers without a valid work permit and stay permit is an illegal practice that can lead to deportation and fines.
- Visa Types: It is important to choose the correct visa for your needs. Investor KITAS, Working KITAS, Spouse KITAS, Second Home Visa, Multiple Entry Business Visa, and Remote Worker Visa are among the available options.
- Regulations: Presidential Regulation No. 20 of 2018 streamlined the KITAS process, replacing Presidential Regulation No. 72 of 2014 to simplify procedures and reduce processing times.
Safe Alternative Way
To work in Bali without issues, it is crucial to follow the proper legal channels. This includes securing the necessary work visa (KITAS) and work permit (IMTA), and complying with Indonesian tax laws by registering with the tax office for a taxpayer number (NPWP). Seeking assistance from legal professionals can further ensure compliance and smooth navigation of the process. You can use e-visa Bali services to make it easier to process a visa. Consult now and enjoy your work in Bali comfortably.
