As more foreigners look to live, work, or invest in Indonesia, choosing the correct visa becomes critical. Two of the most commonly considered options are the Working KITAS and the Investor KITAS. While both permit longer-term stays in the country, they come with different requirements, limitations, and privileges. Understanding how each works can help you select the option that best fits your personal goals and business plans.
Working KITAS: For Employment and Active Business Roles
The Working KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is a limited stay permit issued to foreign nationals who intend to work for an Indonesian-registered company. It is mandatory for any foreigner who is taking up an employment role in Indonesia. This includes professional positions, consultants, educators, and even those employed in entertainment or wellness sectors like yoga instruction. You must be sponsored by an Indonesian company—self-application is not allowed—and you are only authorized to perform duties specified in your approved job title.
Eligibility for a Working KITAS requires a valid employment contract and supporting documents such as a university degree, work experience certificate, and personal insurance. Your sponsor company must also fulfill regulatory conditions, such as registration with the BPJS national health and social security system and demonstrating that the employment of a foreigner is justified. The visa typically lasts 6 to 12 months, though extensions are possible. Working without a KITAS is a serious offense and may result in fines or deportation.
New Working KITAS Rule for Foreign Directors
Recent regulatory changes in Indonesia have added flexibility for business owners. As of late 2023, foreign directors and commissioners of PT PMA companies with less than IDR 10 billion in capital can now apply for a Working KITAS, rather than having to meet the high investment threshold required for an Investor KITAS. This change makes the Working KITAS a more affordable and accessible option for small-scale investors who still need the legal right to manage and operate their businesses actively within Indonesia.
This rule offers a strategic advantage for entrepreneurs and early-stage investors who are still growing their businesses. It removes the need to lock up large amounts of capital solely to qualify for a stay permit. Instead, directors can legally reside and work in Indonesia under a more manageable investment commitment, making this an attractive option for startups and lean operations.
Investor KITAS: For Passive Investment and Residency
The Investor KITAS is a visa option available to foreign nationals who hold shares in a PT PMA (foreign-owned company) and meet specific capital ownership requirements. As of October 2023, the minimum personal investment to qualify has increased significantly to IDR 10 billion per shareholder. This KITAS is designed more as a residency permit for investors, allowing them to live and travel freely in and out of Indonesia, but not to perform active work—unless they are officially registered as company directors.
To apply for an Investor KITAS, you must provide documents proving share ownership, a minimum closing balance of USD 2,000 in your personal bank account for the past three months, and your company’s business bank statement showing at least IDR 35 million in recent activity. This visa is valid for two years and offers the convenience of multiple entries and long-term stability, making it ideal for those who are investing but do not plan to take on operational roles.
Key Differences Between Working KITAS and Investor KITAS
Choosing between the two options comes down to your investment level, work responsibilities, and long-term objectives. Below are the primary distinctions:
- Investment Requirement: Investor KITAS requires a minimum IDR 10 billion in personal capital; Working KITAS has no such threshold but does require a job offer and employer sponsorship.
- Work Authorization: Investor KITAS holders may not perform day-to-day work unless officially appointed as directors. Working KITAS holders can only work in the job title approved under the visa and must stick to one company.
- Validity Period: Investor KITAS is valid for 2 years with renewals; Working KITAS is typically valid for 6–12 months and can be extended depending on the contract.
- Additional Costs: Working KITAS applicants must pay into the Skills Development Fund (approximately USD 1,200 annually), while Investor KITAS holders are exempt from this.
- Administrative Burden: Working KITAS requires more documentation related to employment and insurance, while Investor KITAS focuses on ownership and financial stability.
Choosing the Right KITAS for Your Needs
Ultimately, the right KITAS depends on your role in the business and the amount you plan to invest. If you’re planning to actively manage a business or take on a staff role, and your investment is under IDR 10 billion, the Working KITAS is likely the better fit—especially under the new relaxed rules for directors and commissioners. If your primary goal is to reside in Indonesia as a passive investor or maintain shareholder status, and you meet the capital requirement, the Investor KITAS provides a more streamlined and extended residency option.
For those considering both owning and operating a business, it’s important to understand that Indonesia draws a clear line between management and labor. For example, if you’re the owner of a yoga studio and want to teach classes, you would not be permitted to do so under an Investor KITAS. You would instead need to be sponsored as an instructor under a Working KITAS. The role defined in your permit must match your actual responsibilities.
Understanding these distinctions and planning your visa strategy accordingly can save time, cost, and legal complications down the line. Whether you’re building a startup, managing a growing business, or investing in Indonesia’s vibrant market, selecting the right KITAS is a critical part of your relocation and business journey.
