At Esin Indonesia, we make it simple for companies to sponsor and employ foreign professionals legally with the right permits. Whether you are an employer seeking to bring in expatriate talent or a foreign professional looking to work in Indonesia, our Working KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) service is designed to support you.
We help both companies and individuals navigate the application process from initial approvals to final registration, ensuring full compliance with Indonesian immigration laws.
What is a Work KITAS?
A Working visa or Work KITAS is a limited stay visa that allows foreign nationals to live and work legally in Indonesia. Issued by the Directorate General of Immigration, it is granted to foreigners who are employed by a registered Indonesian company, foreign-owned company (PT PMA), or representative office.
It’s the only legal route for foreign employees to live and work in Indonesia long-term.
Who Needs It?
You need a Working KITAS if you are:
- A foreign employee working for an Indonesian company
- A director or commissioner in a PMA (foreign investment) company
- A technical expert or consultant hired for a long-term project
- A foreign-owned business operator who needs to stay in Indonesia to manage operations
| ⚠️ Note: You must be sponsored by a legal entity in Indonesia. Self-sponsorship is not allowed. |
Required Documents
From the Employee (Foreign National):
- Passport (valid for at least 18 months)
- CV/resume with signature
- Education certificate (translated & legalized)
- Reference letter proving relevant work experience
- Passport-sized photographs
- Health insurance policy
From the Employer (Indonesian Entity):
- Company licenses: NIB, SIUP, NPWP, and deed of establishment
- Expatriate Placement Plan (RPTKA) approval from Ministry of Manpower
- IMTA (work permit)
- Company bank statement
- Sponsorship letter & organizational chart
From the Employee (Foreign National):
- Passport (valid for at least 18 months)
- CV/resume with signature
- Education certificate (translated & legalized)
- Reference letter proving relevant work experience
- Passport-sized photographs
- Health insurance policy
From the Employer (Indonesian Entity):
- Company licenses: NIB, SIUP, NPWP, and deed of establishment
- Expatriate Placement Plan (RPTKA) approval from Ministry of Manpower
- IMTA (work permit)
- Company bank statement
- Sponsorship letter & organizational chart
Process
- Consultation & Eligibility Review
- Preparation of RPTKA and IMTA
- VITAS (Work Visa) Application
- Arrival & KITAS Conversion
- Registration at Immigration & Police
- Issuance of KITAS Card
| Typical processing time: 4–8 weeks, depending on document readiness and approval speed. |
Fees & Validity
- Government Fees: From IDR XXX
- Esin Professional Service Fee: IDR XXX
- Validity: 6 or 12 months, renewable
- Long-Term Options: Up to 5 years for certain executive roles
FAQs
1. Can individuals apply for a KITAS on their own?
No. The Working KITAS must be sponsored by a registered Indonesian entity. Self-sponsorship is not allowed for work purposes.
2. Can I start the KITAS process before arriving in Indonesia?
Yes, you can begin the application from abroad. Your employer can apply for the necessary work permit and KITAS while you are still overseas. Once approved, your e-Visa will be sent to you via email so you can enter Indonesia legally. After arrival, you must visit the local Immigration Office for a biometric recording session to finalize and activate your KITAS.
3. How long is a Working KITAS valid?
Typically, a Working KITAS is valid for 6 or 12 months, depending on the role and contract. Some positions, such as directors or senior professionals, may qualify for a multi-year KITAS of up to 5 years.
4. Which roles qualify for a 12-month Working KITAS?
A 12-month KITAS is typically granted to individuals holding Director or Commissioner positions. Certain management-level roles may also qualify, although final approval is subject to Immigration discretion. For most non-management or specialist roles, only a 6-month, non-extendable KITAS is available.
5. Do I need to visit an Indonesian Embassy to collect my work visa?
Not anymore. Since October 2020, Indonesia has implemented an E-Visa system, which means your visa can be issued electronically and emailed to you — no embassy visit is required. You’ll only need to attend immigration in Indonesia for the biometric stage.
6. What is the DPKK Fund and how much does it cost?
The DPKK (Dana Pengembangan Keahlian dan Keterampilan) is a mandatory contribution to Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower. It supports the development of local workforce training programs. The cost is USD 100 per month, typically paid in full for the duration of your KITAS (e.g. USD 1,200 for a 12-month permit). This fee is non-negotiable and paid by the sponsoring company.
7. How long does the process take?
The process usually takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on how quickly documents are prepared and approved. Esin will guide you through each stage to avoid delays.
8. Can I bring my family on a Working KITAS?
Yes. Once your Working KITAS is approved, your spouse and children can apply for a Dependent KITAS (Family KITAS), which allows them to stay in Indonesia legally without working.
9. I already have a Working KITAS. Can I change jobs and keep the same visa?
No, you cannot transfer your existing KITAS to a new employer. You must first apply for an Exit Permit Only (EPO) to formally cancel your current visa. Once issued, you can then begin a new KITAS application under your new employer.
10. Can I work more than one job with a Working KITAS?
If you choose not to renew your KITAS, you’ll need to apply for an Exit Permit Only (EPO) before it expires. This process is usually quick (a few business days), and once your EPO is stamped, you are required to leave Indonesia within 7 days. If you’ve already left Indonesia without an EPO, you may need to apply for a Exit Re-entry Permit (ERP).
11. What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying your visa is a serious offense. You may face:
▪ Daily fines of up to IDR 1,000,000
▪ Possible blacklisting from re-entering Indonesia
▪ Deportation proceedings
