Can I work in Indonesia as an expat?

If you’re looking for a job opportunity in Southeast Asia, here’s what you need to know to work in Indonesia. With more than 17,000 islands and a relatively low cost of living, the country has become an attractive destination for many foreigners looking for a new professional and personal experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the current job market, the opportunities available to international workers, and the legal requirements you’ll need to meet.

We’ll also look at how the cost of living compares to salaries in the country, so you can figure out the monthly budget you’ll need to cover essentials like rent, food, and transport. Finally, we’ll share tips on how to kick off your job search in Indonesia, where to find job openings, and a few ways to make your application stand out and improve your chances of getting hired right away.

What are the advantages of working in Indonesia?

Working in Indonesia offers a mix of appealing advantages, including a low cost of living, beautiful natural surroundings, opportunities for remote work as a digital nomad, and a generally more relaxed lifestyle. This is why many foreigners are drawn to spend some time there and try a new experience. Here are the main benefits:

• Low cost of living: Compared to Europe, Indonesia is much more affordable. In cities like Bali or Jakarta, you can find rent starting at around $317, and eat local meals for about $2.30. This makes it easier to save money at the end of the month.
• High quality of life: Living in Indonesia means enjoying a tropical climate year-round and a laid-back lifestyle without the stress of major European cities. You can easily balance work with a swim at Seminyak’s beaches, surfing in Canggu, or exploring places like Komodo National Park and the rice fields of Ubud.
• Growing economy: It’s one of the largest economies in Southeast Asia, with a growing market in technology, tourism, and education, creating job opportunities for skilled foreign workers. The country’s GDP has been growing by around 5% per year.
• Opportunities for digital nomads: Many digital nomads have found Indonesia to be an ideal place for remote work. The country has seen a rise in coworking spaces and offers reliable digital infrastructure. Bali, in particular, has become a popular digital hub.
• Favorable tax rates: You may be able to benefit from tax deductions if you work for a foreign employer and are not a tax resident, especially during short-term stays.

Requirements for working in Indonesia

The first thing you should check if you want to work in Indonesia is whether you meet the main requirements. Unlike some other countries, Indonesia has quite specific rules for international workers, so it’s essential to comply with current regulations. Take a look at each one and start the process early.

• Work visa (KITAS – temporary residence permit): It’s the most common option for foreigners hired by local companies. You’ll need to submit your employment contract at the Indonesian embassy in your home country.
• Work Permit (IMTA): This is processed by the employer and is required to work.
• Business or Investor Visas: If you wish to invest or engage in business activities, you must apply for a business visa.
• B211A Visa: This visa allows you to stay for 60 days (renewable) and work remotely, making it the equivalent of Indonesia’s digital nomad visa.
• Company sponsorship: If you plan to work for a local company as an employee, your employer must prove that your skills and experience add value to their business.
• Education and professional experience: To obtain a work permit, you’ll need to prove relevant experience and a university degree, depending on the type of job.
• Language: English is essential in international fields such as tourism, technology, and education. Plus, if you know some Bahasa Indonesia, you’ll have even more opportunities.
• Passport: You must have a valid passport in good condition.
• International health insurance: To get your visa, you’ll need to take out health insurance for Asia that covers medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation.

5 tips for starting a job in Indonesia

With good planning from the beginning, moving to Indonesia can be much easier and more comfortable. Good preparation will help you avoid problems when you arrive and settle in faster. Here are some tips:

1. Look for a job before you travel: It’s important to start understanding how the Indonesian job market works. We recommend beginning your job search as soon as possible, since you’ll need a job offer before you can get a visa.
2. Choose your place of residence carefully: The most popular areas for work and the best opportunities are Bali, especially for digital nomads, Jakarta, where many international companies are based, and Ubud if you prefer a quieter environment.
3. Improve your language skills: It’s a good idea to start learning some basic Bahasa Indonesia, as it will make everyday life and communication much easier and help you adapt more quickly.
4. Have your degree translated and recognized: If you’re planning to work in healthcare or education, you’ll need to provide your university degree. It’s a good idea to have it officially translated into English and certified in your home country for international recognition.
5. Stay connected to the internet: Make sure you have a stable internet connection as soon as you arrive in the country. This will allow you to use GPS, complete online administrative tasks, or attend video interviews. For short stays, you can get a Holafly eSIM for Indonesia with unlimited data for only the days you need, starting at $3.90 per day. Alternatively, Holafly’s monthly plans offer 25 GB or unlimited data from $49.90 per month, with no long-term commitment.

Types of jobs in Indonesia for foreign workers

Do you know what kind of job you’d like to do in Indonesia? Unlike some European countries, there aren’t as many sectors open to foreign workers. In general, the Indonesian government prioritizes local hiring, so foreigners are usually brought in for skilled or strategic roles, such as the ones listed below:

Most in-demand jobs in Indonesia for foreign workers

Although entering the job market in Indonesia can be competitive, there are certain roles with strong demand for foreign workers. If you have the right education and experience, it shouldn’t take too long to find one of the following jobs:

• English teacher: You can teach at language schools or international schools in the cities of Bali or Jakarta.
• Digital marketing specialist: In Canggu, Bali, there’s demand for specialists in social media management, advertising campaigns, SEO, and content creation.
• Web/software developer: Jakarta is home to many large international companies that often hire web developers to join their tech teams.
• Instructor: There is strong demand in Indonesia for surf instructors, diving guides, yoga and pilates teachers, as well as professionals who design wellness programs for international clients.
• Tourism professional: To manage hotels in Bali, handle customer service, coordinate tourism services, and improve the overall guest experience.

Salaries and cost of living in Indonesia

Salaries in Indonesia are relatively low for local workers, but foreigners in skilled roles often earn international-level pay. Since the cost of living is also low, working in an international job can still provide a comfortable lifestyle. Here are some approximate salaries for different positions:

• English teacher: $800–1,500/month
• Digital marketing / technology: $1,500–3,000/month
• Management or specialized positions: $3,000–6,000/month or more
• Tourism and hospitality (skilled positions): $1,000–2,000/month

With rent in Bali around $300 and food costs about $150 per month, plus transport and leisure, your monthly expenses usually range from $600 to $800. This means that with an average salary of around $1,500, you can live comfortably, and with $3,000 or more, you can enjoy a higher standard of living and still save money.

Where can I find job opportunities in Indonesia?

If you’re ready to look for a job in the country, here’s how you can get started. In Indonesia, you can search through online job platforms, educational programs, recruitment agencies, or even by checking company websites directly. Sign up on these platforms, build a strong professional profile, and apply for the roles that suit you best:

Frequently asked questions about working in Indonesia

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Paula Henderson

Spanish-English Translator

Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍

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