This article is written under the supervision of LMI Consultancy, a professional Business & Immigration Consultant in Indonesia.
Indonesia has rapidly transformed into one of Southeast Asia’s most promising destinations for global talent. Supported by a growing middle class, fast-modernising industries, and regional investment strategies shifting under the “China-plus-one” trend, the country now hosts an expanding community of foreign professionals in business, technology, energy, education, and infrastructure.
As Indonesia strengthens its role in the ASEAN economy, the government has adjusted immigration and employment regulations to attract qualified specialists who can contribute to national growth. For expatriates, this evolving landscape offers both opportunity and complexity. Understanding how to work legally, effectively, and culturally in Indonesia is essential before beginning a career here.
This professional guide is curated with insights from LMI Consultancy to outline the legal requirements, work permits, cultural expectations, and industry prospects for foreigners seeking to pursue meaningful careers in Indonesia.
But first, can foreigners work in Indonesia?
The answer is, yes! Foreigners can legally work in Indonesia, provided they follow the country’s regulated employment framework. There are quite the array of business sectors in Indonesia that require professional assistance from global talents. However, entering Indonesia as a foreigner also comes with regulation compliance, such as:
- Foreigners must be sponsored by a registered local company.
- Employment is regulated by the Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker) and coordinated with the Ministry of Investment/BKPM.
- Employers must obtain an RPTKA (Foreign Manpower Utilisation Plan) from the Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower, demonstrating a legitimate need to hire an expatriate for a specific role.
- Once approved, the Ministry issues a Notification, replacing the older IMTA (Work Permit).
- Foreign employees then obtain a Working Visa, also called an ITAS or Temporary Stay Visa, which allows them to live and work legally in Indonesia for 6–12 months, with renewal options.
Self-employment and freelancing are not recognised under Indonesian law. Every foreign worker must have a formal sponsoring entity, either a PT Local or PT PMA.
Foreign nationals who invest in their own companies may apply for an Investor KITAS, which does not require a separate work permit.
Work Visas and Permits required for foreign workers in Indonesia
Working or staying in Indonesia as a foreign professional begins with choosing the correct visa category. Whether you are exploring a job in Indonesia for foreigners, planning to work abroad, transitioning from tourist status, or preparing to live long-term as an expat, selecting the right permit determines how smoothly you can live, work, and travel. Applications can be processed through the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in your home country, or directly at an Immigration Office in Indonesia, depending on the visa type.
1. Working KITAS
The Working KITAS is the primary stay permit for foreigners who secure a job in Indonesia for foreign professionals. It is issued to expats hired by Indonesian companies after the employer obtains an approved RPTKA and Notification from the Ministry of Manpower. Valid for 6–12 months, this visa is ideal for individuals planning to work abroad and experience living in Indonesia under a legally recognised employment contract.
2. Investor KITAS (C313/C314)
The Investor KITAS supports long-term foreign business investment in Indonesia. Available for foreign shareholders, directors, and commissioners of a PT PMA, this visa requires a minimum investment of IDR 2.5 billion per investor. Valid for up to two years and renewable, it aligns with government regulations designed to facilitate legitimate foreign investment activities. This permit provides flexibility for those managing or leading foreign-owned companies in Indonesia.
3. Business Visa
A Business Visa is suitable for foreigners conducting non-commercial business in Indonesia, such as attending meetings, conducting market research, or negotiating partnerships. While it allows travel for professional purposes, it does not permit employment or income-generating activities. This visa is commonly used for short-term visits when planning to stay in Indonesia temporarily without working.
4. Dependent KITAS
The Dependent KITAS is issued to spouses and family members of KITAS holders. It allows them to legally reside in Indonesia but does not grant employment rights. This option is commonly chosen by expat families relocating together for work assignments.
Read more about Dependent Visa
5. Digital Nomad Stay Options
Indonesia is exploring formal policies for digital nomads, particularly in Bali. Until then, long-stay visas and socio-cultural permits function as temporary alternatives for remote workers wishing to stay in Indonesia without engaging in local employment.
Read more about Second Home Visa
Foreign workers of all categories require a MERP (Multiple Exit Re-entry Permit) to travel in and out of Indonesia freely for the duration of their KITAS. This ensures the stay permit remains active while the expat is abroad.
Types of Work Permits for Expats in Indonesia
Foreigners who want to work legally in Indonesia must go through two essential approval stages. These permits ensure that every expat hired meets the country’s labour regulations and fills roles that require international expertise.
1. RPTKA (Foreign Manpower Utilisation Plan)
The RPTKA is a document submitted by the employer to the Ministry of Manpower. It explains why the company needs to hire a foreign worker, outlines the position, and confirms that the role cannot be filled by a local employee.
Only once the RPTKA is approved can the employer move to the next stage.
2. Work Permit Notification (formerly IMTA)
The Notification is the official authorisation that gives a foreigner the right to work in Indonesia. Issued by the Ministry of Manpower, it confirms the expat’s job title, work location, employment duration, and company sponsorship.
Both the RPTKA and Notification must be completed before an expatriate starts any professional activity in Indonesia, ensuring full compliance with national manpower regulations.
Work Cultures in Indonesia: Get to Know Indonesian Hours, Holidays, and Culture
Working Hours
The standard work week is 40 hours, structured as:
- 7 hours x 6 days, or
- 8 hours x 5 days
Overtime is allowed up to 3 hours per day or 14 hours per week, with mandatory compensation.
Annual Leave & Holidays
In Indonesia, employees will typically receive:
- 12 days of annual leave, and
- 15–16 national public holidays
Some industries may follow additional sector-specific rules.
Indonesia’s Work Culture
The work culture in Indonesia is a mix of traditional and modern values. It is a hierarchical society, and respect for elders and superiors is important. However, there is also a strong emphasis on teamwork and cooperation. Below are the essential Indonesia’s professional environment values for professional expats to navigate:
- Respect
- Relationship-building
- Modesty in communication
- Patience in administrative processes
Foreign employees often receive expat packages including housing, transportation, and insurance. Multinational companies in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali follow international HR standards, blending global professionalism with local nuances.
Best Locations for Foreign Professionals
Jakarta
Indonesia’s capital is the country’s economic engine, home to multinational headquarters, government institutions, and major financial players. It’s the best place for expats in finance, consulting, technology, and energy who want to be at the centre of decision-making, networking, and corporate growth. With international schools, global cuisines, and large expat communities, Jakarta offers a dynamic lifestyle.
Bali
More than a tourist paradise, Bali has become a global hub for hospitality, wellness, digital creatives, and remote work. Coworking spaces, eco-friendly startups, and international communities make it ideal for expats seeking balance—where professional development meets a slower, more mindful way of living.
Batam & Bintan
Located close to Singapore, these islands are strategic hubs for manufacturing, logistics, shipbuilding, and industrial operations. Their special economic zone status makes them attractive for foreign investors and professionals who value proximity to regional business centres while enjoying a lower cost of living.
Surabaya
As Indonesia’s second-largest city, Surabaya is a major centre for manufacturing, retail, trading, and infrastructure projects. It offers a more relaxed environment than Jakarta, with strong business ecosystems and rapid development in East Java.
Bandung
A city known for its creativity and innovation, Bandung is ideal for professionals in technology, startup development, research, fashion, and digital design. With top universities and a young workforce, it’s a vibrant base for expats who enjoy fresh ideas, collaborative workspaces, and cooler mountain climates.
Yogyakarta
Loved for its culture and academic environment, Yogyakarta is a strong hub for education, creative media, language teaching, research, and arts. It’s perfect for expats who value community-driven projects, cultural immersion, and a slower-paced lifestyle with strong intellectual energy.
As Indonesia expands its infrastructure, accelerates digital transformation, and develops new Special Economic Zones (SEZs), opportunities for foreign talent continue to grow across the archipelago. From corporate leaders to creative entrepreneurs, there is a place in Indonesia for every expat professional to thrive.
Qualifications and experience requirements to get a job in indonesia as a foreigner
To ensure skill transfer and local workforce development, Indonesia expects foreign hires to bring strong expertise. Generally, expatriates should have:
- A relevant bachelor’s degree or higher
- Five years of experience in their specialised field
- Proven professional track record through certifications or portfolios
Roles commonly filled by expatriates include Directors, Managers, Engineers, Advisors, and Technical Specialists.
While Bahasa Indonesia proficiency is helpful, many foreign professionals succeed with basic communication skills, supported by cross-cultural training from multinational employers.
Top Industries for Foreigners in Indonesia
Energy, Oil & Gas
Indonesia remains one of the region’s key players in energy production. Opportunities are strong for foreign experts in exploration, drilling operations, renewable energy development, environmental engineering, and large-scale project management. As the country explores cleaner alternatives, specialists in sustainability and energy transition are increasingly in demand.
Technology & Digital Economy
The digital sector is one of Indonesia’s fastest-growing industries. Fintech innovation, AI solutions, SaaS platforms, cybersecurity, and e-commerce continue expanding at a remarkable speed. Foreign professionals with advanced tech skills or startup leadership experience often find promising roles in Jakarta, Bandung, and Bali’s tech communities.
Education
With a growing number of international and bilingual schools, Indonesia offers career paths for foreign educators, curriculum developers, academic coordinators, and English-language specialists. Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and Bali are among the most active education hubs for expats.
Finance & Investment
As Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Indonesia hosts numerous multinational banks, insurance companies, investment firms, and consultancies. Roles in corporate finance, compliance, risk management, and capital markets often require international experience, making expat professionals highly valued.
Tourism & Hospitality
With world-renowned destinations like Bali, Lombok, and Labuan Bajo, the tourism sector constantly seeks skilled foreign talent in hotel management, culinary arts, wellness and resort operations, marketing, and guest experience design. International expertise helps elevate service standards across the industry.
Manufacturing & Logistics
From automotive to electronics to maritime industries, Indonesia’s manufacturing sector continues to modernize. Foreign specialists in supply chain optimization, quality control, engineering, and factory operations often support multinational projects in Batam, Bekasi, and Karawang.
Creative Industries
Indonesia’s creative scene is thriving. Opportunities are growing in digital media, branding, advertising, game development, and film production, especially as global and local artists collaborate. Bali and Jakarta are becoming hotspots for creative professionals looking to expand their portfolios in Southeast Asia.
A Smooth Start to Your Career in Indonesia
Working in Indonesia offers extraordinary opportunities—but navigating visas, permits, and legal requirements can feel complex for newcomers. If you’re considering taking the next step in your professional journey here, the right guidance can make all the difference.
LMI Consultancy provides friendly, reliable, and comprehensive support for expats entering Indonesia’s workforce—from work permit processes to company sponsorships and immigration compliance. Our team ensures you can focus on building your career, while we take care of the details that keep your stay secure and worry-free.
If you’re ready to explore your next professional chapter in Indonesia, Contact LMI Consultancy to help you start with confidence.
