Bali Work Permits and KITAS: How to Work Legally in Indonesia

Bali has become more than just a popular travel destination—it’s now a hub for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, consultants, creatives, and professionals looking to live and work in paradise. However, working legally in Bali or anywhere in Indonesia requires more than just arriving with a tourist visa or temporary visit pass. It involves obtaining the appropriate work permits and a KITAS (Limited Stay Permit).

At The Bali Lawyer, we specialize in helping foreigners navigate Indonesia’s immigration laws, including everything related to work permits and KITAS applications. Whether you’re employed by an Indonesian company, starting your own business, or planning to work remotely, this guide provides everything you need to know about working legally in Bali in 2025.

Understanding Work Permits and KITAS in Bali

To work legally in Indonesia, a foreigner must obtain two core documents:

IMTA (Work Permit) – A permit issued by the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower, which grants you legal permission to work in Indonesia.
KITAS (Limited Stay Permit) – A residence permit issued by the Directorate General of Immigration, allowing you to stay in Indonesia for an extended period, typically tied to your employment.

It’s illegal to engage in any professional activity or earn income in Indonesia without these permits, and violations can result in deportation, fines, or blacklisting.

Who Needs a Work Permit and KITAS?

Any foreign national who wishes to work, operate a business, or offer services in Bali or other parts of Indonesia must secure a valid work permit (IMTA) and KITAS. This includes:

Foreigners employed by Indonesian companies
Foreign-owned businesses or startup owners in Bali
Consultants, designers, and freelancers working for local or international clients
Teachers, hotel staff, hospitality professionals, and others working on contract

Even remote workers based in Bali may need to understand the legal implications of earning income while residing in Indonesia.

Types of KITAS for Work and Residency in Bali

There are several categories of KITAS, and choosing the right one depends on your purpose and sponsor. Below are the most relevant types for foreigners seeking to work in Bali:

1. Work KITAS (Index 312)

Sponsored by an Indonesian company or organization, this is the standard permit for foreigners employed in Indonesia. It allows full legal work and residence status, typically valid for 6 to 12 months and renewable.

2. Investor KITAS (Index 313 or 314)

Ideal for foreigners who own or invest in a company registered in Indonesia. It allows you to stay and manage your own business legally without needing a separate work permit (IMTA waived for directors/shareholders under specific conditions).

3. Spouse-Sponsored KITAS

If you are married to an Indonesian citizen, you can apply for a spouse-sponsored KITAS. This does not initially allow work but can be upgraded under special permissions.

4. Freelancer or Consultant Permits (Under Specific Sponsorships)

Special arrangements can be made for freelancers under the legal umbrella of a sponsoring company or agency. These cases are more complex but achievable with the right legal guidance.

How to Apply for a Bali Work Permit and KITAS

Working in Bali legally requires a step-by-step application process through Indonesian authorities. The process can take several weeks and must be completed before beginning any professional activity.

Step 1: Secure a Sponsor

All work permits and KITAS applications must be sponsored by a legal entity in Indonesia (a company, foundation, or organization). If you’re an investor or company owner, your business can act as the sponsor.

Step 2: Submit RPTKA (Expatriate Placement Plan)

The employer must submit a Rencana Penempatan Tenaga Kerja Asing (RPTKA), or Foreign Worker Placement Plan, to the Ministry of Manpower. This document outlines the need for hiring a foreign worker.

Step 3: Obtain IMTA (Work Permit)

Once the RPTKA is approved, the Ministry will issue the IMTA, giving the foreigner the legal right to work in the designated role and location.

Step 4: Apply for Telex Visa

With the IMTA secured, the next step is to request a Telex Visa Approval Letter, which is sent to the Indonesian embassy abroad for visa stamping.

Step 5: Enter Indonesia and Process KITAS

Upon arrival in Bali, you must finalize the KITAS process at the local immigration office. This includes biometric data collection and an in-person interview.

Step 6: Receive KITAS and MERP

You will be issued your KITAS (Limited Stay Permit Card) along with a Multiple Exit Re-entry Permit (MERP), allowing you to travel in and out of Indonesia during your stay.

Required Documents for KITAS and Work Permit Application

While the exact requirements can vary by KITAS type and sponsor, the following documents are commonly needed:

Copy of valid passport (minimum 18 months validity)
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
Recent passport-sized photographs
Highest educational degree (with translation if needed)
Work experience or certificates of expertise
Job title and position description
Sponsor’s company documents: business license (SIUP), tax ID, company registration, NPWP, deed of establishment, and company profile

The Bali Lawyer ensures your documentation is complete, compliant, and submitted correctly to avoid delays or rejections.

Working as an Investor or Business Owner in Bali

If you plan to open a business in Bali, you may be eligible for an Investor KITAS, which grants residence rights and, in some cases, work rights without needing an IMTA.

Key requirements include:

Ownership of at least IDR 1 billion in an Indonesian company
Director or Commissioner role within the business
Proof of active business operations

Investor KITAS is ideal for long-term entrepreneurs who want to manage their operations directly in Bali.

Costs and Processing Time

The costs of obtaining a work KITAS and IMTA can vary depending on the type of sponsorship, duration, and professional services used. Processing time generally ranges from 3 to 6 weeks.

At The Bali Lawyer, we provide clear pricing and fast-track options for clients who need quick approvals. Our experienced team handles everything from documentation to immigration visits, so you don’t have to worry about navigating the bureaucracy on your own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Working on a tourist or social visa: This is strictly prohibited and can result in deportation.
Choosing the wrong KITAS type: Each permit is tied to specific activities. Misuse may lead to visa cancellation.
Incomplete documentation: Missing or incorrect papers can delay approval or cause rejections.
No local sponsor: Every KITAS requires a legal sponsor inside Indonesia.
Overstaying or visa violations: These can incur fines, blacklist status, and future entry bans.

With The Bali Lawyer, you get full legal support to avoid these risks and enjoy peace of mind while building your career or business in Bali.

KITAS Renewal and Upgrades

KITAS permits are renewable annually or every two years depending on the type. We help with:

KITAS extension and renewals
Changing sponsors or job positions
Upgrading from spouse KITAS to work KITAS
Transitioning to permanent stay permit (KITAP) after five years

Remote Work and Digital Nomads in Bali

Indonesia is in the process of exploring a digital nomad visa, but as of 2025, working remotely while on a tourist or social visa may fall into a legal gray area. If you’re generating income from abroad while living in Bali, it’s best to consult with a legal advisor to structure your stay legally—either through a sponsored KITAS or investor visa.

Why Choose The Bali Lawyer?

With extensive experience assisting expatriates, entrepreneurs, and professionals, The Bali Lawyer offers trusted legal solutions to make your work life in Bali seamless and fully compliant.

Our services include:

Full work permit and KITAS application assistance
Legal sponsorship solutions for freelancers or professionals
Investor visa support for business owners
Spouse and dependent KITAS
Legal consultation for digital nomads
Document translation, notarization, and embassy assistance
KITAS renewal and upgrade services

From start to finish, we handle the bureaucracy so you can focus on your career or business in Bali.