Our goal is to change the way business is looked at in Indonesia. Learn who we are and how we’re built different.
Each month, we get dozens of questions across social media from people who would like help.
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions we get. Don’t see your question? Contact us
In 2024-2025 Indonesia has made a big changes to the entire Visa program, simplifying things down to just a few visa classes, you can read a full breakdown of all Bali Visas here.
If anything on this site is unclear, please take the time to reach out to us and get clarity from the team, over the last few years things have been changing a lot and things are still quite dynamic (meaning changing often) so communicating directly with us ensures you know exactly what is going on and what to do next.
No. This is a recent change, if you have an existing visa processing and want to come into Indonesia, you should wait till the first visa is done processing. If you do come in and get the VOA, we are seeing this will cancel ALL OTHER EXISTING VISA APPLICATIONS UNDER YOUR NAME!
This can happen for a few reasons, the immigration platform/software system is still actively being developed and sometimes they have issues where the entire system goes down for days/weeks on end. This can prolong the approval process.
Another issue might be a mismatch in information/ID verification that leads to prolonged approval.
Regardless of what is going on, we will let you know and keep communication open as we are getting back response from immigration officers.
No. The B1 VoA can only be extended ONCE for 30 days (60 days total). After that, you must leave Indonesia. For stays longer than 60 days, apply for a C1 Tourist Visa before arrival (up to 180 days with extensions).
Investor KITAS (E28A) is required. Tourist visas do NOT allow business activities. The Investor KITAS lets you legally work as director in your PT PMA company, hire employees, and operate your business. It requires establishing a company with 10 billion IDR capital.
6-8 weeks total: Company formation (2-3 weeks) + licenses (2-3 weeks) + KITAS processing (14-20 days). We handle everything in parallel to minimize timeline. Must be applied offshore (outside Indonesia).
Retirement KITAS requires age 60+. Alternatives: (1) Investor KITAS with small business (no age limit), (2) Second Home Visa ($130K deposit, no age limit), or (3) Extended tourist visas with periodic visa runs.
No. KITAS renewals are processed while in Indonesia. Start 3 months before expiration. You’ll visit immigration once for biometrics. We handle all paperwork and government liaison.
KITAS is temporary residence (1-10 years depending on type). KITAP is permanent residence. You can apply for KITAP after holding certain KITAS types for 5 years. KITAP gives you an Indonesian ID card (KTP).
Absolutely not. Working on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in deportation, fines, and lifetime ban from Indonesia. You need proper work authorization (Work KITAS or Investor KITAS).
Severe penalties including daily fines, detention, deportation, and potential ban from re-entering Indonesia. Always start renewal/extension process early and never let your visa expire.
The complete Bali business setup process typically takes 4-8 weeks from initial consultation to fully operational company with Investor KITAS. This timeline includes: business planning (1 week), PT PMA company formation (2-3 weeks), business licensing (2-3 weeks), and Investor KITAS processing (14-20 days, done in parallel). Some complex businesses with specialized licenses may take 10-12 weeks. We recommend starting the process at least 1-2 months before your intended launch date.
Yes! With a PT PMA (Foreign Investment Company), you can own 100% of your business as a foreigner. This is the most popular structure for international entrepreneurs. You don’t need an Indonesian partner or majority ownership. The PT PMA allows full foreign ownership in most business sectors, though certain industries (like retail under certain sizes) may have restrictions. We help you navigate these regulations during planning.
The minimum paid-in capital requirement for a PT PMA is 10 billion IDR (approximately $640,000 USD). This is YOUR company’s capital that goes into your business bank account—it’s not a government fee. You can use this money for operational expenses, inventory, equipment, salaries, rent, and all business costs. The requirement demonstrates to authorities that your business has sufficient financial backing to operate successfully in Indonesia.
No, you don’t need to be in Bali initially. The PT PMA company formation and most licensing can be processed while you’re still abroad (offshore). You’ll need to provide documents and sign via Power of Attorney. However, you MUST come to Indonesia to: (1) Open the corporate bank account and deposit capital, (2) Complete Investor KITAS biometrics at immigration, and (3) Collect your KITAS card. We coordinate timing so you only need to be in Bali for 1-2 weeks during the final stages.
As a PT PMA business owner, you receive the Investor KITAS (E28A visa). This gives you: (1) 2-year validity, extendable to 8 years total, (2) Legal work authorization as company director, (3) Multiple re-entry permit for travel freedom, (4) Ability to sponsor employee visas, and (5) Path to permanent residence. The Investor KITAS is processed as part of our complete business setup package. Learn more about Investor KITAS
Yes, PT PMA companies can hire foreign employees. Each foreign employee needs: (1) Work KITAS (E23 visa), (2) IMTA work permit, (3) RPTKA manpower planning approval, and (4) BPJS health insurance. There are Indonesian-to-foreigner employee ratios you must maintain (varies by industry). Foreign hires require Ministry of Manpower approval and specific job justifications. We handle all work visa processing for your foreign employees as an additional service.
Foreigners can operate most business types through a PT PMA, including: restaurants/F&B, cafes, bars, e-commerce, online businesses, consulting, marketing agencies, villas/property management, tour operators, retail (with capital requirements), manufacturing, import/export, wellness centers, and professional services. Some sectors are restricted or require special approvals: retail under certain sizes, certain healthcare services, and mass media. We help determine if your specific business type is permitted during consultation.
Yes, you need a physical business address in Indonesia to register your PT PMA. This can be: (1) Commercial office space, (2) Co-working space with business registration services, (3) Virtual office with legal address provision (we offer), or (4) Home office (if zoning permits). You’ll need the location permit (SKTU) from the building/area owner. We can help you find suitable office solutions and coordinate all required documentation from landlords. Many entrepreneurs start with a virtual office which we can provide
If you want to leave a review for us, you can do so on Google here or on our Trustpilot profile here. If you want to tag us on social media we are @balibusinessbuilders on Facebook/Instagram
Don’t let bureaucracy complexity hold you back from your entrepreneurial dreams in paradise. With Bali Business Builders, setting up your company is straightforward, transparent, and efficient. We’ve helped 500+ entrepreneurs successfully launch their Bali businesses—let us help you too.
Step 1: Book your free consultation via WhatsApp or email
Step 2: Receive your customized setup plan and transparent pricing
Step 3: We handle everything while you prepare your trip/business launch
📞 WhatsApp: +62 878-4217-3344
Fast response within 24 hours – get expert Bali business consulting
📧 Email: [email protected]
📍 Office: Bali, Indonesia
⏰ Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM WITA