Do I Need a Visa to Work in Bali? A Complete Legal Guide for Foreigners in 2025
Bali is a top destination for professionals, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs from around the world. Its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and flourishing business environment attract foreigners seeking not only a lifestyle change but also work opportunities. However, working legally in Bali requires strict compliance with Indonesian immigration laws. One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is: Do I need a visa to work in Bali? The answer is yes—but not just any visa.
In this comprehensive guide, The Bali Lawyer will explain the types of visas that permit employment, the procedures for obtaining a work permit, and how you can avoid legal complications when working in Indonesia. Whether you’re planning to work remotely, start a business, or get hired by a local company, it is crucial to understand your legal obligations.
Why You Can’t Work in Bali on a Tourist or Social Visa
One of the biggest mistakes foreigners make is assuming that they can work in Bali with a tourist visa or a social-cultural visa. These visas strictly prohibit employment or any form of income-generating activity in Indonesia. If caught working without the appropriate permit, the consequences can include deportation, fines, blacklisting, and even imprisonment.
Simply put: If you’re earning money or working in any capacity while in Bali, you must have a valid work visa and a corresponding work permit (KITAS). The Indonesian government has increased scrutiny on foreigners misusing their visas, particularly in Bali.
Understanding the Right Visa to Work Legally in Bali
To work legally in Bali, foreigners are generally required to obtain a Limited Stay Permit (KITAS) that is linked to a work permit (IMTA) issued by the Ministry of Manpower. Here’s an overview of the most common options for working legally in Bali:
1. Work KITAS (Index 312)
This is the primary visa used by foreigners employed by Indonesian companies or institutions. It allows you to stay in Indonesia and work legally for a specific employer.
Requirements include:
Sponsorship from an Indonesian-registered company
A position that cannot be filled by a local
Valid employment contract
Approval from the Ministry of Manpower
Validity: Usually valid for 6–12 months, renewable annually.
2. Investor KITAS
This type of KITAS is issued to foreigners who invest in and hold shares in a company registered in Indonesia (usually a PT PMA – Foreign-Owned Company). It allows for limited work activities related to management and business development.
Key benefits:
No need for a work permit (IMTA)
Faster and more affordable than a regular Work KITAS
Valid for 1–2 years
This is ideal for foreigners who want to open a business or manage a company in Bali.
3. Freelancer or Digital Nomad Status
Currently, Indonesia does not officially issue a “digital nomad visa.” However, a Second Home Visa or a Business Visamay be options for those who work remotely for overseas companies. It’s important to note that while these visas allow for long stays, they do not permit earning income from Indonesian sources.
Legal Steps to Obtain a Work Visa and KITAS in Bali
If you plan to be employed or run a business in Bali, follow these steps to stay on the right side of Indonesian immigration law:
Step 1: Company Sponsorship
You must have an Indonesian entity (company or employer) willing to sponsor your visa. If you’re setting up your own business, you’ll first need to establish a PT PMA.
Step 2: Obtain RPTKA Approval
The employer must apply for a Foreign Manpower Utilization Plan (RPTKA) through the Ministry of Manpower. This is the first layer of government approval required to employ a foreigner.
Step 3: Apply for IMTA (Work Permit)
Once the RPTKA is approved, the next step is securing the IMTA, which is your legal work permit.
Step 4: Get the Work KITAS
After your IMTA is granted, you can proceed with the KITAS application. This is done through the Directorate General of Immigration and includes a visa approval process from the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your home country or designated country.
Step 5: Police Reporting and Civil Registration
After receiving your KITAS, you are required to:
Report to the police (STM)
Register with the local municipality (SKTT)
Register with the immigration office for biometrics
Penalties for Working Illegally in Bali
Working without a proper visa and work permit in Bali is a serious offense. Indonesian immigration laws are strict, and enforcement has increased significantly over the years. Penalties may include:
Deportation and blacklisting
Fines up to IDR 500,000,000
Criminal charges and imprisonment
Your future ability to re-enter Indonesia may also be permanently affected.
Can You Convert a Tourist Visa into a Work KITAS?
No, you cannot directly convert a tourist visa into a work KITAS while in Indonesia. You will be required to leave the country (usually to a nearby Indonesian embassy in Singapore or Malaysia) to obtain the visa sticker after your KITAS is approved.
Working for Multiple Companies or Freelancing
Work KITAS permits are specific to one employer and one job title. If you plan to work with multiple companies, you must secure additional permits and approval. Freelancing for Indonesian clients without proper permits is considered illegal.
If you’re offering services online for clients abroad, this may be allowed under certain visa categories, but there’s still legal ambiguity, and it is highly recommended to get legal advice.
Working as a Business Owner in Bali
If your plan is to run your own business in Bali, such as a café, yoga studio, consulting agency, or villa management company, you must first establish a PT PMA. This legal business structure allows foreign ownership, investment, and operation in Indonesia.
Once the PT PMA is set up, you can apply for an Investor KITAS under your own company and begin managing the business legally.
Avoiding Visa Agents and Illegal Brokers
Many foreigners fall into the trap of working with unlicensed visa agents or brokers who promise shortcuts and cheaper options. These shortcuts often lead to legal trouble. Always work with a licensed legal service that is transparent, experienced, and professional.
At The Bali Lawyer, we are a legally registered law firm based in Bali, specializing in immigration, business law, and expatriate legal support. Our team ensures that all your documents are in full compliance with Indonesian regulations.
How The Bali Lawyer Can Help You Work Legally in Bali
Our services include:
Work KITAS applications and renewals
RPTKA and IMTA processing
Investor KITAS for company owners
Business registration (PT PMA)
Visa extension and consultation
Assistance in immigration audits or legal disputes
We take care of the entire process from start to finish, offering peace of mind and reliable legal solutions for professionals and entrepreneurs.
Bali offers incredible opportunities for foreigners to live, work, and do business. However, Indonesian immigration law is not something to take lightly. If you’re planning to work in Bali, it is essential to secure the proper visa and permit to avoid penalties and ensure long-term stability.
Whether you’re being hired by a company or starting your own, the process can be complex—but with the right legal partner, it can be smooth and successful.