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InCorp offers a comprehensive range of solutions to ease the company registration process and help you create a viable roadmap for your business.
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Get assistance from experts with a decade of experience in assisting international business owners expanding into Indonesia.
Avoid any bureaucratic complexity when closing your company by engaging with our experienced legal advisors.
What type of legal entities should you choose to register a company in Indonesia? We can assist you in choosing which is the best one to grow your business.
To help businesses survive during this unfortunate time, InCorp provides corporate recovery in Indonesia and insolvency services.
Granting an environmental permit in Indonesia needs an Environmental Impact Analysis (AMDAL) in advance.
Obtaining property & land ownership in Indonesia offers some challenges for foreigners. However, buying property in Indonesia is attainable with specific resources and documents.
Recent regulatory changes have a knock-on effect on Indonesia's Merger & Acquisition landscape. Check on how we can navigate you through your M&A in Indonesia.
InCorp provides Virtual Office services Indonesia in various locations: Jakarta, Bali, Semarang, Surabaya, and Batam.
Business process outsourcing in Indonesia is a viable option to streamline bureaucratic complexities that hurdle your business expansion objectives.
InCorp offers a complete range of accounting service Indonesia, from tax reporting to auditing.
With professional financial audit services from InCorp, you can ensure all accounting activities are accurately recorded and compliant with Indonesian regulations.
Using an Employer of Record service to set your roots in Indonesia opens the doors to new opportunities in the country.
Financial and Operational Resilience services from InCorp are developed to support businesses and help them survive during this difficult time.
Payroll services in Indonesia are a practical solution to avoid unnecessary complexities while you focus on growing your business.
Using a recruitment agency in Indonesia will help you hire the best candidates for your company, saving you time and money.
Tax consulting in Indonesia are the shortcuts to fulfill the administrative obligations with high accuracy and in a timely manner.
The Indonesian government promotes tax holidays as one of the fiscal incentives to attract major foreign direct investment in Indonesia.
Operating businesses in Indonesia, entrepreneurs must comply with the regulations accordingly, especially concerning taxes.
Immigration in Indonesia is one of the strictest and most complex processes due to its ever-changing regulations. InCorp provides a seamless experience in obtaining your stay and work permits.
Avoid any hassles by engaging with an experienced visa agent in Indonesia.
A dependent visa Indonesia is a document that allows foreigners to bring their family while settling down in the country.
Investor KITAS Indonesia is a stay permit that offers many benefits to investors that invest in the country.
Overseas Visas are required for Indonesians who are planning to stay abroad for an extended period of time.
KITAP is a permanent stay visa for foreigners who have intentions to stay in Indonesia.
Foreign retirees often find their plans stuck due to the complex visa application process. InCorp helps expedite the process.
Obtaining a social visa is daunting if you are not familiar with the country’s complex bureaucratic processes. Consult with us for a seamless Indonesian visa application experience.
Foreigners married to an Indonesian citizen are eligible for a spouse-sponsored KITAS.
Learn how to obtain an Indonesian tourist visa seamlessly and securely, directly from a trusted visa and travel agent.
Get assistance from a trusted visa agent in Indonesia to make your traveling plan to Indonesia even more convenient.
Expedite your Indonesian work permit application process by engaging with a trusted visa agent.
All imported goods must obtain permission granted by specific governing bodies prior to entering the local market.
Learn more about the cosmetic product registration services in Indonesia.
Learn more about exporting goods to Indonesia.
Learn more about the food & beverage product registration services in Indonesia
Learn how to go through halal certification in Indonesia directly from experts successfully.
Learn more about the health supplement product registration services in Indonesia.
Learn more about the household product registration services in Indonesia.
Learn more about importing goods from Indonesia
An Importer of Record in Indonesia is a legal service that enables companies to import products into Indonesia, through an import partner.
Learn more about the medical device registration services in Indonesia.
Register a trademark is necessary to avoid legal issues in the future. InCorp can help you with Trademark Registration services in Indonesia.
Compliance is one of the most challenging parts of business overseas, especially in a country packed with complex bureaucratic processes such as Indonesia.
Updating business documents to align with your company’s growth can be a hassle.
Due Diligence services are needed to assess the credibility of the company or partner you wish to work with or acquire in Indonesia
From Company Regulations to Employment Agreement Drafting, Employment law services from InCorp will help you to compliance with employment policy in Indonesia.
InCorp’s legal consultation services in Indonesia are crafted to help your business settle and fully comply with the latest regulations.
Organizations must continuously evolve and transform to remain competitive and relevant in todays global environment ...
Companies face many opportunities and challenges as a result of a changing market and regulatory landscape ...
Adopting Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) practices can improve your company’s value ...
Risk Management services from InCorp Indonesia can assist companies in building confidence when making future business decisions ...
Transfer Pricing in Indonesia occurs when a company performs an internal transaction within the same business group or its subsidiaries
InCorp's transfer pricing advisory services in Indonesia are marked by the objective to support our clients' business needs.
Our transfer pricing services provide you with a hassle-free experience while still complying with the legal aspects of transfer pricing in Indonesia.
As the market-entry consulting firm in Indonesia, InCorp provides a wide range of customized solutions to ease the business incorporation process.
Both natural and legal persons are entitled to open a bank account in Indonesia. Find out how to open a bank account in Indonesia, here.
InCorp can help you find a trusted Buying Agent Indonesia for product sourcing in Indonesia. Contact us now for a free consultation.
InCorp can help foreigners to get the driving license in Indonesia, whether SIM A or SIM C. Check out the requirements and the procedure, here.
IMEI Registration in Indonesia is necessary to ensure telecommunication devices from abroad can function properly in Indonesia.
With offices in Jakarta, Bali, Semarang, SUrabaya, and Batam, InCorp is ready to assist you as a local partner and distributor in Indonesia.
InCorp can help you to select the trusted local partners to import and distribute your products in Indonesia.
Improve your business by knowing the market conditions in Indonesia through market research services in Indonesia.
InCorp can help you gain information about your competitor's product through mystery shopping.
Are you considering moving to Bali as an expat? If the answer is yes, other than what has drawn you to live in Bali, you must also know that it takes more than dreams of beautiful seas and incredible beaches.
As an expat in Bali, you must also be prepared for the facts that might complicate your move if you do not consider them. This article provides a detailed look at the basics you will have to know before moving to Bali as an expat.
Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Bali offers a unique blend of culture, lifestyle, and opportunities, making it a sought-after destination for expatriates and travelers. This article will explore why foreigners choose Bali as their new home or preferred vacation spot.
Bali’s breathtaking landscapes, from lush rice terraces to pristine beaches, are undoubtedly one of its biggest draws. Foreigners often move to Bali to immerse themselves in the paradise of diverse geography and enjoy the island’s tropical climate all year round.
Bali’s unique culture and traditions are deeply ingrained in daily life. Visitors are captivated by the island’s religious ceremonies, vibrant festivals, and intricate arts, such as traditional dance and music. Many expatriates are drawn to Bali to experience and participate in this rich cultural tapestry.
Compared to many Western countries, Bali offers a lower cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to stretch their budgets. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs are often significantly lower, allowing foreigners to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank..
Bali has a reputation for its warm and welcoming community. Expats connect easily with locals and other foreigners, creating a sense of belonging. The island’s diverse expatriate community ranges from digital nomads and entrepreneurs to retirees and families seeking a more relaxed way of life.
Bali’s food scene is a melting pot of international and local flavors. From delicious street food stalls to upscale restaurants, the island offers various culinary experiences. For foreigners passionate about food, Bali is a paradise of gastronomic delights.
Bali has gained recognition as a wellness hub, attracting yoga enthusiasts, wellness practitioners, and those seeking a holistic lifestyle. The island has yoga retreats, meditation centers, and spas catering to beginners and experienced practitioners.
Bali’s thriving tourism industry has created business opportunities for foreigners. Many entrepreneurs have established successful ventures, such as restaurants, resorts, and online businesses, capitalizing on the island’s popularity as a tourist destination.
Known for its diversity and infamous throughout the international community, Bali poses challenges for expats who want to move and reside in another country for the first time. Therefore, if you decide to move to Bali, you must ensure you understand and can overcome the challenges.
Navigating Indonesia’s visa regulations can be a complex process prior moving to Bali. Many expatriates initially enter Bali on a tourist visa and later seek ways to extend or obtain more permanent residency. Understanding the various visa options and complying with changing regulations can be daunting.
Although English is widely spoken in tourist areas, expats may need help communicating effectively in Indonesian, especially in more rural parts of Bali. Learning the local language, Bahasa Indonesia, can be essential for daily interactions and building meaningful relationships.
Bali’s rich cultural heritage is a significant draw, but it can also pose challenges for expatriates. Adapting to local customs, rituals, and ceremonies can be a steep learning curve. Respect for Balinese traditions and beliefs is crucial to integrate into the community seamlessly.
While Bali is known for its affordability, the cost of living can vary greatly depending on one’s lifestyle choices. Expats who seek a Western-style lifestyle with luxury accommodations may find that expenses add up quickly.
Access to quality healthcare and health insurance can concern expats. While Bali has a growing healthcare sector, major medical issues may require evacuation to nearby countries with advanced medical facilities.
First and foremost, the most important thing is to consider the type of visa you need before moving to Bali. Due to the constant change and revision of the Indonesian immigration law, you must keep updated on the latest visa requirements. Ensure you are always permitted to stay in Bali legally with the correct visa type. Below are some of the common visas for Bali ex-pats.
There are two types of visa for a short stay in Bali:
Short-visit visas will be issued upon your arrival in Bali. However, remember that some airports in Indonesia do not publish VoA, and you will encounter issues when entering the country without the knowledge. Contact InCorp to ensure which airports in Indonesia can issue VoA.
One more thing that expats need to note is that you are forbidden to work in Bali, or any part of Indonesia, with short-stay visas. In other words, you are not able to participate in any profit-generating activities, even if it’s freelancing jobs.
Read more: 5 Tips for Choosing an Indonesian Visa Agent
If you intend to attend business events such as meetings, conferences, training, etc., as preparation for starting your business in Bali, a business visa is the one. Business visas can also be categorized into two types.
A single-entry visa allows you to enter and leave the country only once. The validity is 60 days, but you can extend the visa up to four times.
If you need more than a one-time entry, you can apply for a multiple-entry business visa for several visits to Bali or Indonesia. A multiple-entry business visa is valid for 12 months with unlimited visits. However, each visit is limited to 60 days.
Remember that business visas do not equal work permits for all expats, so you cannot work and earn income in Bali. Both work permits and business visas require visa sponsorship from a reliable Indonesian company.
InCorp will be able to assist you with the sponsorship requirement. Apply online for your business visa in Bali to avoid the tedious process of immigration.
You will need a limited residency permit known as ITAS or KITAS for long-term residency in Bali. ITAS/KITAS can be categorized into several types: working KITAS, investor KITAS, marriage KITAS, and retirement KITAS
If working is the primary purpose of staying in Bali, you will need a working KITAS. You can get a working KITAS only when you have a legal entity in Indonesia that sponsors you. These legal entities include PT PMA (a foreign-owned company), PT (a local company), and the representative office of a foreign company in Indonesia.
Legal entities must meet specific capital requirements to provide KITAS sponsorship to foreigners. A working KITAS is valid for six to twelve months, depending on the job type and the work permit’s validity.
You can apply for an investor KITAS if you are a shareholder of a PT PMA. The requirements differ depending on whether you are also a director or commissioner of the company. An investor KITAS is valid for two years.
A marriage KITAS or spouse KITAS is possible when you are married to an Indonesian citizen. However, a marriage KITAS only enables one to live in Bali rather than to work in Bali. If you intend to work, you must get a work permit from an employer.
Once you and your Indonesian spouse have been married for two years, your KITAS can be upgraded to a KITAP (permanent residency permit). Working independently, such as freelancing or consulting, is allowed when you have a KITAP. After two years of marriage, you can apply for a permanent stay permit (KITAP).
For seniors over 55, you can apply for a retirement KITAS in Bali. The validity of a retirement KITAS is 12 months, but an annual extension is allowed. Thus, you will have a retirement visa for 5 years, and then you can apply for a KITAP afterward. Like the marriage KITAS, you cannot work in Bali with a retirement visa.
Read more: How to Protect Yourself from Visa Scams and Fraudulent Visa Agents
As discussed, one of the reasons most expats stay in Bali is to set up a company and fulfill their entrepreneurial dreams. Since you already have a big picture of the type of visa you need, we are moving on to how to jumpstart your business in Bali.
The first thing you need to do is choose the correct entity for your business. Among many legal entities in Bali, PT PMA and local company PT are the most common. Indonesian nationals must entirely own PT, and foreigners can wholly or partially own a PT PMA.
To set up a PT PMA, you will need to fulfill the following requirements:
A PT can be incorporated easily in Bali with very little capital. However, an Indonesian can only own it; only 1% of foreign ownership is allowed. According to the latest changes laid out in Job Creation Law, the classification of Local PT in Indonesia based on paid-up capital is as follows:
If you’re planning a complete relocation to Bali, understanding the intricacies of securing your place of residence is paramount. Below, we present a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the housing landscape in Bali before you make the move.
Embarking on your new life in Bali necessitates finding suitable accommodation. Renting a property is a viable option for expatriates, provided they possess a KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal – Limited Stay Permit).Lease agreements typically span from one to three years, and the terms of the leasehold arrangement can be extended for a maximum period of 25 years.
Bali’s real estate landscape is characterized by an exclusivity clause, reserving land ownership solely for Indonesian citizens holding “Hak Milik” (Right of Ownership). For foreigners aspiring to own a slice of Bali’s paradise, the process invariably involves the assistance of an Indonesian local partner to facilitate the purchase of real estate.
Engaging an unreliable Indonesian partner independently can expose you to significant risks. An alternative, safer route to acquiring property in Bali is establishing a 100% foreign-owned PT PMA (Perseroan Terbatas Penanaman Modal Asing – Limited Liability Company with Foreign Investment).
This avenue grants you the coveted Right to Build “Hak Guna Bangunan,” providing a secure and legally sound path to realizing your property ownership dreams without unnecessary uncertainties.
The cost of living in Bali as an expatriate can vary widely depending on your lifestyle choices and priorities. While Bali is often seen as an affordable destination, expats must plan and budget accordingly to ensure a comfortable and financially sustainable life on the Island of Gods.
One of the most significant expenses for expats in Bali is housing. The accommodation cost can vary dramatically depending on the location, type of property, and amenities. High-end villas in popular tourist areas like Seminyak and Canggu can be expensive, while more affordable options are available in quieter regions.
Bali offers a diverse culinary scene, from inexpensive street food to upscale dining experiences. Expats can dine at local warungs (small restaurants) or indulge in international cuisine. Your dining preferences will significantly impact your food expenses.
Getting around Bali can be affordable, but it depends on your mode of transportation. Renting a scooter is a common choice for expats, while others opt for car rentals or hiring drivers. Fuel costs and maintenance should be factored into your budget.
Access to healthcare is crucial, and expats should consider obtaining comprehensive health insurance to cover medical expenses. Bali has both public and private healthcare facilities, and the cost of medical services can vary significantly.
If you have children, international schools can be expensive. Bali has several international schools offering Western education, but tuition fees are expensive.
Utilities like water, electricity, and internet are generally affordable in Bali. However, monthly bills can vary based on usage and your required comfort level.
Bali offers many entertainment options, from beach outings to cultural events and nightlife. Your leisure activities and social life will impact your monthly expenses.
Expats should budget for other miscellaneous expenses like visa fees, work permits, and travel within Indonesia. These costs can add up over time.
Now that you have understood the basics, the question is, are you ready to start a new life on the other side of the world? Get in touch with us by filling in the form below in case you have further questions. You are also welcome to visit us in our office in Badung. We also have other branches in Jakarta and Semarang.
Holding 11 years of experience in various roles, including project manager, operational manager, and corporate strategist, David Susandi is a prominent figure for many entrepreneurial organizations expanding in Indonesia.