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Work permits for foreigners in Bali follow a national framework established by Indonesian law. The two key permits are Izin Kerja (Work Permit) and Izin Tinggal Terbatas ITAS (Limited Stay Permit) that together authorize employment and residence for foreign nationals. In Bali, hospitality, construction, IT and wellness sectors frequently navigate this system due to international staff and investors. Employers in Bali must comply with federal rules rather than provincial rules, but local enforcement practices can affect processing times and documentation.
Typically, a Bali employer sponsors a foreign worker through a multi‑step process. The company obtains an IMTA or Izin Mempekerjakan Tenaga Kerja Asing from the Ministry of Manpower, then the immigration office issues the ITAS for residency and the right to work when all conditions are met. Staying compliant reduces penalties and mitigates risks of deportation or work disruptions. The system aims to balance business needs with Indonesian manpower protection and local content objectives.
Important context for Bali residents - the tourism and construction sectors in Bali rely heavily on foreign expertise, but enforcement is persistent. Employers and workers should track regulatory changes closely, especially around licensing, renewal deadlines, and reporting requirements. This guide summarizes the core framework and practical considerations for Bali seekers of legal advice on work permits.
Source: Directorate General of Immigration and official Indonesian regulations on foreign workers and stay permits.
Official site - Directorate General of Immigration
Official site - Ministry of Manpower (Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan)
Official regulations portal - peraturan.go.id
In Bali, certain situations almost always require legal counsel to avoid penalties or work stoppages. Here are concrete scenarios where hiring a Work Permit lawyer makes a tangible difference.
In these real‑world Bali scenarios, legal counsel can prevent delays, reduce exposure to penalties, and provide a clear path through complex government processes. A qualified Bali‑based solicitor or attorney can coordinate with the relevant agencies to align business goals with regulatory requirements.
Law No. 13 of 2003 on Manpower forms the core framework for employment and workforce administration in Indonesia, including foreign workers. It sets general rules on hiring, training, and working conditions and forms the basis for subsequent regulations on foreign employment. The law has undergone multiple amendments to adjust to evolving labor markets.
Law No. 6 of 2011 on Immigration governs stay permits, visas, and the rights and obligations of foreign nationals in Indonesia. It specifically addresses conditions for residence, employment, and enforcement actions related to unauthorized work. The law is implemented through regulations issued by the Immigration Directorate and related ministries.
Government Regulation No. 20 of 2018 on the Use of Foreign Workers provides the licensing framework and procedural requirements for employing foreigners. It outlines the process to obtain IMTA and Izin Kerja, and it connects the manpower licensing system with immigration control. The regulation has guided foreign worker management since its enactment in 2018.
Recent Indonesia policy movements have aimed to streamline and tighten foreign employment procedures. For example, the Job Creation Act (Law No. 11 of 2020) introduced changes to several regulations affecting foreign workers and licensing processes. Cross‑agency coordination remains essential for Bali projects involving foreign staff.
Source: Indonesian regulations and policy updates from the official portals - peraturan.go.id, imigrasi.go.id, and kemnaker.go.id.
Regulations portal • Immigration site • Ministry of Manpower
ITAS is the residency permit allowing stay in Indonesia. Izin Kerja is the work permit that authorizes employment. You need both to live and work legally in Bali.
Typically, the employer applies first for the IMTA with the Ministry of Manpower, then Immigration issues the ITAS after verification. A lawyer can coordinate documents and timelines.
Yes, an Indonesian employer or sponsor must file the necessary licenses and acts as the point of contact with government agencies for work authorization.
Processing times vary by sector and agency workload. Typical ranges span from 4 to 12 weeks from initial submission to ITAS issuance, if all documents are in order.
Common documents include a valid passport, passport photos, corporate documents from the Indonesian sponsor, a formal job offer, CV, and proof of qualifications. A lawyer helps ensure completeness.
Job changes commonly require an updated Izin Kerja or ITAS amendment and may necessitate a new filing with Manpower and Immigration. Legal review is advised.
Costs depend on the sector, agency charges, and whether professional services are used. Typical fees include government charges plus attorney or consultant fees.
ITAS validity varies by case, commonly ranging from 1 to 2 years, with renewal required before expiration to avoid gaps in lawful stay and work.
While not legally required, a lawyer reduces missteps, speeds up processing, and helps navigate penalties or audits more effectively.
Family members may need dependent visas or permits separate from the ITAS, depending on their status and plans. A lawyer can map the correct paths.
Working without authorization can lead to penalties, fines, detention, or deportation. Legal counsel helps mitigate risk and pursue proper licensing quickly.
Review the rejection reasons with counsel, correct documentation, and consider an appeal or re‑filing strategy guided by a professional.
The terms vary by jurisdiction, but in Indonesia a licensed attorney or advocate (advokat) handles legal matters, while a solicitor‑style practitioner provides advisory services and documentation support.
