The Temporary Stay Permit Card, known as KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas), is the Indonesian immigration document that authorizes foreign nationals to live and work legally in Indonesia. Unlike the Digital Nomad Visa, which covers remote work for foreign companies, the KITAS is for individuals employed by Indonesian-registered entities.
The KITAS process involves two interconnected components: the work permit (IMTA, Izin Mempekerjakan Tenaga Kerja Asing) and the residence permit (KITAS itself). Your sponsoring employer initiates the process by registering the position and demonstrating that the role requires foreign expertise not available in the local workforce, known as the RPTKA (Rencana Penggunaan Tenaga Kerja Asing).
The total cost starts at approximately $1,200, with government fees around $700 (including the DKPTKA levy of $100/month, work permit processing, and KITAS issuance) and MVS service fees of $500. Processing takes 14-30 business days from the time all documents are submitted.
Who it is for
- Expatriate managers and directors of Indonesian companies
- Foreign teachers and academics at international schools and universities
- Technical specialists and engineers in manufacturing, mining, oil and gas, and construction
- Hospitality professionals working at hotels, resorts, and restaurants
- NGO workers employed by Indonesian-registered non-profit organizations
- Creative professionals employed by Indonesian media, advertising, or tech companies
What we need from you
Send these once. We check everything before it goes anywhere.
- Valid passport with at least 18 months remaining validity and 4 blank pages
- Recent passport-sized photographs (4x6 cm, red background, multiple copies)
- Curriculum vitae / resume and copies of educational qualifications (degrees, diplomas)
- Sponsoring employer company documents (NIB, NPWP, company deed, domicile letter)
- RPTKA (Foreign Worker Utilization Plan) approved by the Ministry of Manpower
- Completed IMTA and KITAS application forms
- Indonesian health insurance or employer-provided coverage
- Employment contract between you and the sponsoring Indonesian company
What the price includes
- Document preparation & review
- Sponsorship letter (if applicable)
- Immigration form submission
- Status tracking & updates
- E-visa delivery to email
- WhatsApp support throughout
How it goes
- 1Employer Eligibility Check and Consultation
MVS works with your sponsoring employer to verify they meet the requirements to hire foreign workers. We review the company legal standing, confirm the position qualifies, and outline the full process and costs.
- 2RPTKA and IMTA Processing
MVS prepares and submits the RPTKA (workforce plan) to the Ministry of Manpower on behalf of the employer. Once approved, we process the IMTA (work permit) application. This phase takes approximately 7-14 business days.
- 3Visa Telex and VITAS Issuance
With the work permit approved, MVS applies for the visa reference letter (telex) from immigration. You use this to obtain your VITAS (Visit Stay Visa) at an Indonesian embassy or consulate, or it is processed for on-arrival stamping.
- 4Arrival, KITAS Issuance, and Registration
Upon arrival in Indonesia, MVS arranges your KITAS card issuance at the local immigration office. We also handle your mandatory local registrations including the STM (Surat Tanda Melapor) at the local police station and the SKTT at the district office.
- 5Ongoing Compliance and Renewal
MVS monitors your KITAS expiration dates and initiates renewal well in advance. We also ensure ongoing compliance with reporting requirements and advise on the pathway to KITAP (permanent stay) when you qualify.
Questions people ask about the Work Permit (KITAS)
How long does the entire KITAS process take?
From initial document submission to receiving your KITAS card, the process typically takes 14-30 business days. The timeline depends on your employer's readiness, the completeness of documentation, and current government processing speeds. MVS works to minimize delays at every stage.
Can I switch employers on the same KITAS?
No. The KITAS is tied to a specific employer and position. If you change jobs, your current KITAS must be cancelled and your new employer must file a fresh application. MVS can manage the transition to minimize any gap in your legal work status.
What is the DKPTKA levy?
The DKPTKA (Dana Kompensasi Penggunaan Tenaga Kerja Asing) is a government levy that employers must pay for each foreign worker. It is currently $100 USD per month per foreign employee. This is typically the employer's responsibility, though some contracts may allocate it differently.
Can my family join me in Indonesia on my KITAS?
Yes. Your spouse and children under 18 can apply for dependent KITAS permits tied to your employment KITAS. Dependent KITAS holders can reside in Indonesia but cannot work. MVS processes family KITAS applications alongside the primary applicant.
What happens to my KITAS if I get fired or resign?
Your employer is obligated to report the termination of your employment to immigration, which triggers the cancellation of your KITAS. You then have a grace period (typically 30 days) to either obtain a new KITAS through another employer, switch to a different visa type, or leave Indonesia. Contact MVS immediately if your employment status changes.
Can I convert my KITAS to permanent residency (KITAP)?
Yes. After holding a KITAS for a qualifying period (typically 3-5 consecutive years, depending on your category), you may be eligible for a KITAP, the permanent stay permit valid for 5 years and renewable. The KITAP gives you more flexibility, including the ability to change employers without a new visa. MVS advises on KITAP eligibility and manages the conversion process.