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Bali work visa FAQ

Your Bali work visa
questions, answered

The questions we hear most about KITAS, IMTA, sponsors, costs and timing — condensed into short, straight answers from our visa desk.

Updated for 2026–2027

In short

Five things to know first

  • Working in Bali needs both a KITAS (limited stay permit) and an IMTA (work permit), unless you are eligible for the E33G digital nomad visa.
  • A tourist visa prohibits all work — including remote work for foreign companies.
  • You generally need a job offer from a Bali-based employer, who sponsors your KITAS and IMTA.
  • Expect roughly 6–10 weeks from application to approval.
  • Costs run about US $650–1,350, excluding company setup, plus about US $1,200 a year per IMTA work permit.
01

A tourist visa covers remote work

It doesn’t. A tourist visa prohibits any form of work in Indonesia, and breaking its terms can lead to penalties or deportation.

02

The process is quick and cheap

A proper work visa is required, and the process can take several weeks and involve significant costs.

03

A work visa turns into residency

A Bali work visa cannot be converted directly to permanent residency. That is a separate application with its own long-term residency conditions.

All questions

Bali work visa FAQ

General guidance only — requirements can vary by role, sponsor and nationality. Ask us about your case.

Ask our visa desk

Eligibility & sponsor

Do I need a job offer before applying?

Yes, generally. A Bali-based employer makes the job offer and sponsors your KITAS and IMTA applications.

What are the eligibility criteria?

Usually a job offer from a company in Bali, relevant qualifications or experience, and a clear criminal record. Specific criteria vary by job role and industry.

What does a sponsor actually do?

Your sponsor — typically your employer — applies for the necessary permits and is responsible for compliance with Indonesian regulations. A strong relationship with your sponsor eases the process.

Is a work visa right for digital nomads and freelancers?

Not usually. If you work remotely for foreign companies, the E33G digital nomad visa is the better fit. A work visa suits formal employment with a local company.

Can retirees or students apply?

Retirees are generally not eligible, as the visa is intended for employment. Students are not eligible unless they have a job offer and meet the standard work visa requirements.

Costs

What does a Bali work visa cost in total?

Roughly US $650–1,350, excluding company setup — covering DKP-TKA, VITAS, KITAS, MERP, police reports and medical exams. Each IMTA work permit is about US $1,200 a year, more if you work for several companies.

What does renewal cost each year?

Typically similar to the initial application: government fees and possibly agent fees, around US $650–1,350 depending on your circumstances and any regulatory changes.

How do I avoid hidden charges?

Ask for a detailed breakdown of every cost up front — government fees, agent fees and any extras — before you commit.

Are fees refunded if my application is denied?

Government fees are typically non-refundable. Agency refund policies vary, so confirm the terms before you start.

Process & timing

What is the first step?

Secure a job offer from a company in Indonesia. Your employer then applies for the RPTKA and VITAS; once approved, the KITAS and IMTA applications follow.

How long does processing take?

Generally 6–10 weeks from application to approval. The VITAS stage is often done in 3–5 days, then the KITAS and IMTA are processed.

Is there a best season to apply?

No set season. Processing can slow during national holidays when government offices close, and with immigration workload — so apply well before your intended start date.

Which documents should I prepare?

A valid passport, recent photographs, your employment contract and possibly educational certificates. Your sponsor or the authorities may ask for more.

Why are applications delayed or denied?

Mostly incomplete documentation, not meeting eligibility criteria or incorrect procedures. If rejected, review the reasons and consider reapplying with corrected or additional documents.

Living & staying

How often must I renew?

Typically every 6–12 months, depending on the validity granted. Renew the KITAS and IMTA before they expire, usually through your employer or visa agent.

Can my family join me?

Usually through a dependent KITAS for each family member, with documents such as marriage and birth certificates. Expect additional costs and processing time.

Can I switch employers?

Each job may require a new IMTA, which affects job mobility. Factor the visa’s duration and renewal options into your career planning.

Will I pay tax in Indonesia?

Typically you become subject to Indonesian tax regulations. Consult a tax professional, as obligations depend on your personal and work circumstances.

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