As Indonesia continues to attract global talent and investment, navigating its work permit application and immigration regulations has become essential. At the heart of legal employment for foreigners lies the IMTA — Indonesia’s official permit for working issued by the Ministry of Manpower. Without it, foreign nationals cannot work legally in the country, even if they hold other permits such as the KITAS Indonesia or ITAS Indonesia.
This guide explains what an IMTA is, who qualifies, how to apply, documents needed, costs involved, and key laws — with information sourced from Acclime, ASEAN Briefing, and 3E Accounting.
What Is the IMTA (Employment Permit)?
The IMTA (Izin Mempekerjakan Tenaga Kerja Asing) is the mandatory Indonesia work permit for foreign nationals. It authorizes employment and is issued only after an RPTKA (Foreign Worker Utilization Plan) is approved.
Once approved, the individual can apply for a VITAS (Limited Stay Visa) and later convert it to an ITAS Indonesia, which allows for residence and employment. This process is essential for securing a working KITAS — the Limited Stay Permit for employment purposes in Indonesia.
Who Is Eligible for a Work Permit in Indonesia?
Foreigners who plan to work in Indonesia must first be employed by a properly registered entity. If you are an investor or entrepreneur, company incorporation is a critical step. The process starts by choosing a legal entity type, most commonly a PT PMA for foreign investors. This involves preparing a deed of establishment with a notary, obtaining approval from the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, and registering with the Online Single Submission (OSS) system. After that, the company must secure a tax ID (NPWP), business licenses, and a NIB (Business Identification Number) before it can begin sponsoring work permits or operating commercially. Setting up a company in Indonesia, particularly a PT PMA (foreign-owned limited liability company), involves approval from the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, obtaining a business license, and registering with relevant tax and labor authorities. Only after incorporation can the company sponsor a foreign employee’s work permit.
To qualify for a work permit application, a foreign national must be employed by a registered company in Indonesia, such as a PMA, local company, or representative office. The role offered must not fall under the restricted positions. These prohibited roles include Human Resources, Legal, Supply Chain Management, Health, Safety and Environmental Affairs, and Quality Control and Inspection. These restrictions are governed by Ministerial Decree No. 40/2012 and sector-specific regulations like Regulation 31/2013 for the oil and gas industry.
Required Documents for the IMTA Work Permit
The foreign worker must provide a valid passport with at least eighteen months of validity and four blank pages, a resume, relevant academic qualifications, passport-sized photographs, a health certificate, a certificate of good conduct from their embassy, proof of insurance from a registered Indonesian provider, and evidence of a minimum of five years of relevant work experience or competency certification.
The employer must submit the business licenses, deed of establishment, Ministry of Law and Human Rights (MOLHR) approval, manpower report, employment contract, letterhead papers, proof of company bank balance with at least USD 1,500, and DKP-TKA payment receipt. Additional documentation includes a co-worker appointment letter for the Indonesian counterpart assigned to the foreign employee.
How to Apply for an Indonesia Work Permit
The process begins with obtaining the RPTKA approval. The employer must submit this utilization plan to the Ministry of Manpower, explaining the necessity for the foreign hire, including the role, responsibilities, location, duration, and training commitments for local staff.
Following the RPTKA approval, the company applies for the IMTA online. Once granted, the company pays the DKP-TKA fee, which is USD 100 per month for each foreign worker. A twelve-month work period requires a payment of USD 1,200. Some organizations and roles are exempt, such as diplomatic staff, educational institutions, and certain nonprofit sectors.
The next stage involves applying for the VITAS, the Indonesia e visa or Indonesia visa application online that allows entry into the country. Upon arrival, the foreigner converts the VITAS into a KITAS Indonesia or ITAS Indonesia. These permits allow employment and residence for an initial period of six to twelve months, renewable depending on the role.
Note that the visa upon arrival Indonesia does not permit employment and must not be confused with the proper Indonesia work permit process.
Key Regulations Governing the Work Permit Application
Employment and labor in Indonesia are regulated by the Labor Law of 2003, revised under the Job Creation Law, and implemented through GR 35/2021 and MOM Regulation No. 8/2021. The RPTKA approval and IMTA process are governed by these laws to ensure that foreign employment supports local workforce development.
Fixed-term contracts are limited to five years, and employers must submit periodic reports on training and technology transfer initiatives.
Permit Validity and Conversion to Permanent Stay
Foreign employees who have completed four years of employment under the KITAS Indonesia with the same employer and in the same role may convert their stay to a KITAP (permanent stay visa). This KITA visa is valid for five years and auto-renews as long as the individual remains eligible. The KITAP eliminates the need for annual renewals and offers greater stability.
The updated immigration regulations now allow foreigners to convert from visit visas to ITAS, and ITAS to KITAP under relaxed rules, further simplifying long-term residence planning.
Additional Visa Categories and Requirements
Applicants must also consider the Second Home Visa, valid for up to ten years, which requires proof of funds of at least IDR 2 billion (~USD 133,000), a valid passport, and a clean record. The Indonesia visa requirements for this visa are part of broader efforts to attract long-term residents and investors.
Foreign nationals from India must process their visa for Indonesia from India through consular services or the online Indonesia visa application portals. The immigration website Indonesia provides updated guidelines and application tracking.
Reporting and Compliance Responsibilities
Employers must report annually to the Ministry of Manpower regarding the foreign employee’s duties, the training imparted to local staff, and any progress on the localization of the role. This report is mandatory and ensures accountability in the use of foreign expertise.
Conclusion
To work legally in Indonesia, every foreign national must obtain an IMTA, the official employment permit. The process may appear complex, but it ensures compliance with Indonesia’s labor laws while supporting workforce development. Whether you’re transitioning from a Singapore job permit, applying for a work permit Singapore to relocate, or preparing a WP application as an employer, it is essential to follow the approved process.
Companies and professionals should budget for the DKP-TKA payment, understand the kitas process in Indonesia, and make use of official resources such as the immigration website Indonesia and the application form for work permit portals.
By following the proper procedures, maintaining documentation, and partnering with experienced immigration advisors, you can ensure a smooth and compliant journey into Indonesia’s workforce.
