Foreign executives planning to manage a representative office in Indonesia must understand the business visa landscape to ensure legal compliance and operational continuity. This guide unpacks the right visa options—short-term and long-term—based on activity type, stay duration, and regulatory fit.
Also read: Working in Indonesia as a Foreigner: A Complete Guide
Short-Term Visa Options
Visa-Free Entry (for ASEAN and select countries)
Nationals from 169 countries, especially ASEAN members, can enter Indonesia visa-free for up to 30 days for business meetings. This exemption is strictly for non-remunerated meetings and cannot be extended.
Visa on Arrival (B213/B1)
Available to over 90 nationalities, the Visa on Arrival allows entry for:
- Business meetings
- Seminars
- Purchase of goods
Stay Duration: 30 days
Extension: One-time, 30 days
This visa offers flexibility for spontaneous business trips without the need for advance application.
C2 Single Entry Business Visa
Previously known as the B211A, the C2 visa is designed for executives engaging in business activities up to six months:
- Initial stay: 60 days
- Extensions: Two times (60 days each)
- Valid activities: Attending negotiations, signing contracts, sourcing products
- Not permitted: Supervisory work or receiving compensation
Cost: IDR 3.5M–7.25M depending on provider.
Specialized Business Visas
Other single-entry types include:
- C10: Attending lectures/business seminars
- C11: Trade exhibitions
- C12: Pre-investment surveys
- C17: Business audits
These visas are tailored to niche functions but share the same principle: no employment.
Also read: Work Culture in Indonesia: A Glimpse into the Work Ethic
Long-Term Business Visa Options
Multiple Entry Business Visa (D12/D2)
Executives traveling frequently benefit from this visa’s flexibility:
- Validity: 1–2 years
- Stay per trip: 60 days (extendable to 180)
- Re-entry: Unlimited during validity
Ideal for regional directors or business development leads overseeing Indonesian operations regularly.
When Work Permits Are Required
KITAS + IMTA Pathway
If the executive will work regularly or receive income in Indonesia, a work permit and KITAS are required.
Steps:
- RPTKA: Manpower Ministry approves foreign worker plan.
- IMTA: Work permit approval.
- VITAS: Temporary stay visa issued for entry.
- KITAS: Limited stay permit issued upon arrival.
KITAS C-312: The Standard Work Visa
This is the go-to visa for foreign executives legally working in Indonesia.
- Validity: 6–12 months
- Renewable: Yes, based on role
- Scope: Supervisory roles, local management, income-earning positions
Senior roles typically qualify for 12-month permits, while others may get 6-month non-renewable KITAS.
Also read: Business Travel to Indonesia: Complete Requirements
Document Checklist
Business Visas
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- Passport-size photo
- Invitation letter from sponsor
- Bank statement (USD $2,000–$5,000)
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate (if required)
KITAS & Work Permit
- Letter of appointment
- Articles of association
- CV and diploma
- A declaration confirming the individual will exclusively work for the representative office.
- Health clearance
- Background check
Also read: Can a Representative Office Hire Employees in Indonesia?
Compliance & Legal Restrictions
Business visas do not permit employment:
- No salary or wages from Indonesian entity
- No regular supervision
- No work exceeding 4 hours/day or 3 days/week
Executives must also report activities and extend visas before expiry.
Important: Indonesia transitioned to a new eVisa platform in 2024. Applications are now digital and require updated visa codes.
When to Use Which Visa?
| Scenario | Recommended Visa |
|---|---|
| Visiting suppliers once | B213 (Visa on Arrival) |
| Attending 3-month product exhibitions | C2 Business Visa |
| Managing operations remotely + periodic trips | D12 Multiple Entry |
| Supervising staff & drawing salary | KITAS C-312 |
InvestinAsia: Your Trusted Immigration Partner
Navigating Indonesia’s complex visa regulations can be overwhelming. InvestinAsia offers comprehensive Indonesia visa services for:
- Indonesia Representative Office Setup
- Indonesia Business Visas Application (Single & Multiple Entry)
- Indonesia Work Visas / KITAS Application
- Indonesia Visa on Arrival Extension Service
With expert support, real-time compliance updates, and full documentation handling, InvestinAsia helps foreign executives operate legally and efficiently in Indonesia—without delays or costly mistakes.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What visa is best for business meetings in Indonesia?
For short meetings, the Visa on Arrival (B213) is sufficient. For longer business engagements, choose the C2 Business Visa.
Can I work in Indonesia under a business visa?
No. Business visas do not allow employment or salary. You must apply for a KITAS with IMTA for legal employment.
What’s the difference between C2 and KITAS?
C2 is for non-paid, short-term business. KITAS is for long-term, income-generating work.
Is a representative office allowed to employ foreigners?
Yes, but only executives with proper work permits (IMTA + KITAS).
How long does it take to get a KITAS?
The full process typically takes 3–6 weeks, depending on document completeness and ministry approvals.
