Due to increasing popularity of the Indonesian market among foreign investors, the number of foreigners working in Indonesia has been growing rapidly. Even though the Department of Manpower and Transmigration has loosened a list of professional positions that are open to foreign manpower, confusion among both foreign investors and employees prevails. Consequently, cases of deportation of foreigners have not been uncommon.
Strict Rules
Even though the Indonesian economy has been growing in the past years, the country’s unemployment rate remains high. As a result, the Indonesian government is rather strict concerning employing foreigners. In the ITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) application process, a company willing to hire a foreign national must prove their exceptional skills or demonstrate why this position requires a foreign specialist.
Moreover, the Indonesian government has defined sectors that foreign professionals cannot pursue in any case. These are as follows:
- Human resources department
- Legal department
- Health, safety, and environment affairs
- Supply chain management
- Quality control and inspection
(Minister of Manpower Decree No. 349/2019)
Working Visa Is Not Enough
Being unaware of the complex and difficult process of employing a foreign national, representatives of a company willing to hire a foreigner as well as foreigners themselves might face serious legal consequences. There are dozens of cases when foreign workers in Indonesia worked without an essential work permit (RPTKA) although they have a stay permit visa (VITAS). Consequently, being classified as illegal workers, all foreigners have undergone a process of deportation from the country.
Are your company hiring a foreigner? Or you are a foreigner coming to pursue a career in the Indonesian market? We strongly recommend consulting your case with professionals in order to prevent legal implications.
Cekindo offers a wide range of services including fast business visas and work permits. With our extensive knowledge of the legalities, visas, and work permits, as well as our comprehensive networks, we can process your working permit in Indonesia quickly and efficiently.
Application Process in a Nutshell
A company willing to hire a foreign national must submit Expatriate Placement Plan RPTKA (Rencana Penempatan Tenaga Kerja Asing) at first. Once RPTKA is approved, a TA-01 Recommendation can be issued. Domestic companies approach the Manpower Department while foreign investment companies will contact the Investment Board Department (BKPM)).
After obtaining RPTKA, a company can submit an application for a limited stay visa (VITAS), which is automatically converted to an ITAS when they enter Indonesia,
Cekindo is here to guide you through the application process. Thanks to our wide knowledge of legal requirements for visas and legal permits, our services will save you both time and money.
