If you are a Singapore-based company planning to assign employees to Indonesia — or a Singapore national considering working from Indonesia — understanding the applicable work permit and visa framework in 2026 is essential.
Indonesia remains a key destination for regional expansion, operational hubs, and flexible work arrangements. At the same time, immigration, labour, and tax compliance requirements are more closely monitored than ever. Using an incorrect visa or work authorisation structure may expose both individuals and companies to regulatory and enforcement risks.
Why This Matters in 2026
Cross-border mobility between Singapore and Indonesia continues to grow, driven by business expansion, project-based assignments, and evolving remote work models. Jakarta and Bali remain major destinations for Singapore-based professionals.
At the same time, Indonesian authorities have strengthened coordination between immigration, manpower, and tax systems. As a result, visa misuse — including working under tourist or visitor visas — carries significantly higher compliance risk in 2026.
Key Terms You Need to Understand
Before reviewing the available pathways, it is important to understand several key terms commonly used in Indonesian immigration and employment compliance:
Visa
An entry permit allowing a foreign national to enter Indonesia.KITAS / ITAS
A limited stay permit issued after arrival, allowing a foreigner to reside in Indonesia for a specific period.Work Authorisation / Work Permit
Legal approval to work in Indonesia, linked to a sponsoring entity.RPTKA (Foreign Worker Utilisation Plan)
A mandatory approval that an Indonesian sponsor must obtain before employing a foreign national.
Work KITAS (Employee Route)
The Work KITAS remains the primary route for Singapore nationals who are formally employed by an Indonesian entity, such as a local subsidiary, affiliate, or appointed partner.
Under this structure, the Indonesian sponsor must first secure RPTKA approval from the Ministry of Manpower. A Limited Stay Visa is then issued, which is converted into a KITAS after the individual enters Indonesia.
This route is appropriate when the individual is performing productive work for an Indonesian entity and is subject to local employment and regulatory obligations.
Investor KITAS (Founder or Shareholder)
For Singapore founders or investors who hold shares in an Indonesian company and are actively involved in managing operations, the Investor KITAS may be the appropriate pathway.
This route focuses on the individual’s role as an investor or corporate officer rather than a traditional employee. It is commonly used by directors or commissioners overseeing Indonesian business activities and is frequently aligned with company establishment or expansion plans.
Remote Worker Visa
Indonesia also provides a dedicated option for foreign nationals who work remotely for overseas employers while residing temporarily in Indonesia.
This route is suitable where:
the employer is located outside Indonesia,
the individual does not engage with the Indonesian market, and
all income is sourced from abroad.
It is important to note that this visa does not permit employment by Indonesian entities or the provision of services to local clients.
Tax and Compliance Considerations
Regardless of visa type, time spent in Indonesia may have tax implications. Extended stays can potentially trigger Indonesian tax residency, depending on duration of presence and individual circumstances.
Companies should therefore assess immigration status, tax exposure, and employment structure together — not in isolation — to ensure full compliance.
Key Focus Areas for Singapore HR Teams
Singapore-based HR teams and decision-makers should focus on the following areas when managing staff in Indonesia:
selecting the correct visa and work authorisation based on actual activities,
avoiding visitor or tourist visas for productive work,
monitoring length of stay and renewal timelines,
aligning job roles, contracts, and assignments with approved permits.
For Singapore-based companies and professionals operating in Indonesia in 2026, immigration compliance is a strategic requirement rather than an administrative formality.
Whether assigning employees to Indonesia, managing founders on the ground, or enabling remote work arrangements, selecting the correct visa and work permit pathway is essential to reducing risk and supporting sustainable growth.
WeSrve is a business solutions company and a trusted partner for clients in delivering a wide range of corporate secretarial services. Our services include company incorporation, expatriate compliance, payroll, accounting, and taxation.
If you require further guidance on work permits, visas, or employment compliance in Indonesia, please visit www.wesrve.co.id, contact us at support@wesrve.co.id, or reach out via WhatsApp at +62 818 1881 1887.
We look forward to supporting your business objectives in Indonesia.
