Indonesia Work Visa for Indian Citizens: Everything You Need to Know


Indonesia work visa for Indian citizens is a mandatory requirement for those looking to explore career opportunities in the dynamic Indonesian job market. Whether you're a skilled professional, a technical expert, or an entrepreneur, securing the right type of visa ensures you remain legally compliant while working in the country. This guide covers every essential detail—from visa types and eligibility to the application process and documentation.


Types of Indonesia Work Visas Available for Indians

Indonesia offers several visa options, but for employment purposes, Indian citizens generally apply for:

1. KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit Card)

  • Issued for foreign nationals intending to work and reside in Indonesia for an extended period.

  • Valid for 6 to 12 months and renewable.

2. IMTA (Work Permit)

  • Granted by the Ministry of Manpower.

  • Must be obtained before applying for KITAS.

  • Issued to the employer, allowing them to legally hire foreign workers.

3. Telex Visa

  • A visa approval letter required to collect your work visa at the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in India.


Who Should Apply for a Work Visa?

Any Indian citizen planning to undertake paid employment in Indonesia must apply for a work visa. This includes:

  • Full-time employees

  • Consultants and project-based professionals

  • Technical specialists and trainers

  • Founders or directors of foreign-invested companies

Business or tourist visa holders are strictly prohibited from taking up employment.


Eligibility Criteria for Indian Applicants

To be eligible for an Indonesia work visa, Indian nationals must meet the following criteria:

  • A confirmed job offer from a registered Indonesian company

  • Possession of academic and/or professional qualifications relevant to the role

  • Sufficient work experience

  • The employer must obtain a RPTKA (Expatriate Placement Plan) and IMTA approval from Indonesian authorities

Only Indonesian companies or legally established foreign-invested entities can sponsor a work visa.


Documents Required for Indonesia Work Visa

Both the Indian applicant and sponsoring company need to submit a set of documents:

From the Employee (Indian applicant):

  • Valid passport (minimum 18 months validity)

  • Updated CV/Resume

  • Passport-size photographs (as per specifications)

  • Degree/diploma certificates

  • Work experience letters (if required)

From the Employer (Indonesian company):

  • RPTKA (approval from the Ministry of Manpower)

  • IMTA (work permit document)

  • Telex visa approval

  • Company registration documents

  • Sponsorship letter


Step-by-Step Application Process

The application for an Indonesia work visa for Indian citizens involves several stages:

Step 1: RPTKA Approval

The Indonesian employer submits the expatriate placement plan (RPTKA) to the Ministry of Manpower.

Step 2: IMTA Issuance

Once the RPTKA is approved, the company applies for the IMTA (Work Permit).

Step 3: Telex Visa

Upon receiving IMTA, the employer applies for a Telex Visa from the Directorate General of Immigration.

Step 4: Embassy Visa Application

The Indian applicant presents the Telex Visa at the Indonesian Embassy/Consulate in India for the visa sticker.

Step 5: Arrival and KITAS Collection

After entering Indonesia, you must undergo biometric registration and receive your KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit Card).


Processing Time for Indonesia Work Visa

On average, the entire process takes 4 to 6 weeks, distributed as follows:

  • RPTKA and IMTA: 10–14 working days

  • Telex Visa: 7–10 working days

  • Embassy processing: 5–7 working days

Delays may occur if documentation is incomplete or verification is required.


Visa Validity and Renewal

The standard validity for an Indonesian work visa (KITAS) ranges from 6 months to 12 months. You can apply for renewal or extension based on your employment duration and contract terms.

To renew:

  • Apply at least 30 days before expiration

  • Submit updated contract and supporting documents

  • Processing may take 2–3 weeks


Can You Bring Family Members?

Yes, Indian professionals holding a KITAS can sponsor dependents (spouse and children) under a Dependent KITAS. However, dependent visa holders cannot work in Indonesia unless they obtain their own work permits.


Important Tips and Warnings

  • Do not work on a tourist or business visa – it is illegal and may lead to deportation.

  • Always coordinate with your employer – as they handle most parts of the visa application.

  • Keep digital and physical copies of all documents and approvals.

  • Notify immigration in case of job change or early termination.


Conclusion

Indonesia work visa for Indian citizens is a multi-step process that requires employer sponsorship, proper documentation, and compliance with Indonesian immigration laws. With the right support and accurate information, Indian professionals can build successful careers in Indonesia while ensuring their legal stay is secure and uninterrupted.

For expert guidance and a seamless visa process, connect with BTW Visa Services — your trusted partner in global mobility.

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