If you’re a foreign national planning to invest or manage a business in Indonesia, the Investor KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is your golden ticket. Unlike a typical work visa, this limited stay permit is specifically designed for foreign investors who want to live and run their businesses in Indonesia legally and comfortably.
The Investor KITAS offers legal residency for up to two years, and it can be renewed multiple times. It also allows for multiple entries and exits, eliminating the bureaucratic hassle of reapplying for visas every time you travel.
In short, the Investor KITAS isn’t just a document—it’s a gateway to serious business engagement in Indonesia.
Indonesia is Southeast Asia’s largest economy and a hotspot for foreign investment. Whether you’re expanding an international brand, launching a startup, or investing in property, being able to reside legally and manage your operations firsthand is essential.
Without the right permit, investors may be exposed to immigration violations, tax complications, or limited access to local services. The Investor KITAS Indonesia bridges that gap—giving you a legitimate, secure, and strategic base in the country.
Every step of the Investor KITAS process is grounded in Indonesian law. The legal framework is outlined in:
These laws define who qualifies as a foreign investor, the procedures to obtain a KITAS, and what rights and obligations come with it.
In recent years, Indonesia has made significant reforms to ease investment procedures. Notably, investors under KITAS 313 or 314 are now exempt from Work Permits (IMTA).
This reform has cut red tape and reflects Indonesia’s serious commitment to attracting global capital. For investors, it means fewer administrative barriers and faster processing.
There are two primary categories of Investor KITAS:
Both KITAS types offer multiple entry facilities, and can be renewed multiple times. If you plan to stay in Indonesia long-term, opting for Index 314 may save time and cost down the road.
Importantly, after five consecutive years of holding an Investor KITAS, you become eligible for a Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP). This is ideal for investors seeking long-term certainty and flexibility.
READ MORE:
To qualify, you must hold at least IDR 1 billion in shares in an Indonesian foreign investment company (PT PMA). This requirement ensures that the Investor KITAS is issued only to those making substantial and genuine investments.
Your investment must be formally registered, and your name must appear in the company’s notarized Deed of Establishment as a shareholder.
In addition to shareholding, you must hold a strategic management position in the company—such as Director or Commissioner. This aligns with the Indonesian government’s objective of attracting not just money, but also foreign expertise and leadership.
The appointment must be legally ratified and filed with the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Menkumham).
According to BKPM regulations, the foreign-owned company (PT PMA) must meet these conditions:
Each individual investor applying for the KITAS must hold a minimum IDR 1 billion in shares. This capital commitment reflects both seriousness and compliance.
The application process requires a well-prepared set of documents, including:
Having complete and accurate documentation is crucial to avoiding delays or rejections.
READ MORE:
The journey starts with setting up your company. You’ll need to:
This phase usually takes about 2–3 weeks, depending on the complexity of your business.
Even though you’re exempt from the IMTA, you’re still required to:
This step is more about demonstrating corporate compliance rather than employment.
Once the corporate paperwork is in order:
This final step can take 1–2 weeks if all documents are complete.
Having a reliable legal partner can help avoid costly mistakes and delays.
If you stay in Indonesia for more than 183 days in a calendar year, the tax authorities consider you as a tax resident. This means:
Investor KITAS holders must stay compliant with:
We strongly advise engaging a tax advisor or legal team to avoid penalties.
READ MORE:
You’re required to:
Non-compliance can lead to:
That’s why staying legally compliant isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a necessity.
This makes the Investor KITAS one of the most attractive legal pathways for foreigners in Indonesia.
Even experienced investors can face setbacks. Some common mistakes include:
Working with trusted legal counsel ensures you avoid these traps and stay ahead of regulatory changes.
At Kusuma & Partners, we often see investors face delays or rejections due to technical issues like incomplete documentation, misregistered shareholdings, or misunderstandings of regulatory requirements. Our role goes beyond paperwork—we offer end-to-end strategic support, from structuring your PT PMA in compliance with BKPM regulations to ensuring your position as Director or Commissioner is properly recorded. We also guide you through immigration, taxation, and reporting obligations to ensure your Investor KITAS application is smooth, legally sound, and future-proof. Let us simplify the process so you can focus on growing your business in Indonesia.
The Investor KITAS Indonesia isn’t just a legal document—it’s a powerful tool for strategic business presence in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic markets. From legal stay to tax compliance, having the right visa type can make or break your operations.
So, whether you’re a new investor or expanding your global footprint, take the smarter route—partner with a law firm that knows how to navigate the process seamlessly.
Contact us today for personalized assistance with your Investor KITAS application. Let’s bring your vision to life—legally, efficiently, and confidently.
Fill in the form below to get our expert guidance.
“DISCLAIMER: This content is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be treated as legal advice. For professional advice, please consult with us.”
What happens when a director fails to act in the best interest of a company in Indonesia? Can they be personally sued or even jailed? The answer is yes—and the legal framework in Indonesia clearly lays out both civil and criminal consequences. Understanding Director’s Liability Under Indonesian Law: Civil and Criminal Consequences is vital for […]
Indonesia is emerging as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic investment destinations. With its expanding consumer market, robust natural resources, and government initiatives aimed at attracting foreign capital, Indonesia holds immense potential for international investors. However, along with these opportunities comes a complex legal landscape that can pose significant challenges. Foreign investors must understand not […]
Indonesia stands at the forefront of the global mining industry. With its rich reserves of coal, nickel, bauxite, copper, and tin, the country plays a pivotal role in powering the world’s energy transition and manufacturing supply chains. However, amid increasing environmental concerns and the push for economic sustainability, the Indonesian government has taken a bold […]