Indonesia has seen growth in its economy and expansion of job markets, which has in turn made this a place of interest for very skilled Pakistani workers. In all of the congested urban centers like Jakarta, as well as the industrial parks of Surabaya, we are seeing that foreign professionals are in high demand. We have just what you need if you are looking to make a career move to South East Asia: a detailed guide to the work visa options available for Pakistani professionals.
Why Work In Indonesia?
Indonesia, which is home to the largest economy in Southeast Asia has a very diverse set of industries which include oil and gas, mining, construction, education and tourism. Also because of its location and pro-investment policies, the country is a great place for Pakistani professionals, especially in engineering, IT, and teaching fields.
Types Of Indonesian Work Visas
For Pakistani professionals who go to work in Indonesia, what they mainly require are Limited Stay Visas (VITAS) and also Temporary Stay Permits (KITAS). This is a summary:
- VITAS (Visa Izin Tinggal Terbatas): First, we issue this work visa.
- KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas): Upon entering Indonesia with a VITAS you will have to get a KITAS which is your work and residence permit.
This visa is valid for 6 months to a year and is renewable according to your work contract.
Indonesia Work Visa Requirements For Pakistani Citizens
The documents listed below are required for Pakistani applicants to get a work visa:
- A valid job offer from an Indonesian sponsor.
- A work visa issued by Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry.
- A passport valid for at least 18 months.
- Passport photos on a white background
- Certificates of educational and professional qualifications
- Health and police clearance certificates
The Indonesian employer is usually the party that takes care of the work permit (IMTA) and sponsorship process.
How To Apply: Step-by-Step Process
- Get a Job Offer: There is your contract from an Indonesian company.
- Employer Applies for RPTKA & IMTA: Your employer is to get the RPTKA which is the manpower placement plan and also get the IMTA.
- VITAS Application: Upon approval, the Directorate General of Immigration will issue the VITAS approval letter.
- Submit Application at the Embassy: Present your approval at the Indonesian Embassy in Pakistan for stamping.
- Travel to Indonesia & Convert to KITAS: Upon arrival, head to local immigration to complete the conversion from VITAS to KITAS.
Indonesia Visa Fee For Pakistani Applicants
Ind that which visas Pakistani citizens require will also vary by type of visa and length of stay. We see that:
- Single Entry VITAS (Work Visa): Around $100 to $150.
- KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit): The range for processing and permit fees is between $500 to $1,000 which varies by firm and agent that is dealing in the docs.
Employers often cover a large part of these fees, however, the applicants should check into that during the employment talks.
Indonesia E-Visa For Pakistani Nationals
Over recent years, Indonesia has put in place the e-Visa program which has made the application process easier for applicants who are able to do it online. As for Pakistani workers’ e visas, they are typically applied for by the Indonesian sponsor company which then sends in the approval electronically. That which permits the applicant to enter the country and to proceed with the rest of the process.
Although the primary issue of e-Visas is for tourism and business we also have work related e-Visas (VITAS) which are issued through the same online platform in cooperation with the employer.
Indonesia Visit Visa Fee From Pakistan
For a short visit before a job change, which is to happen in Indonesia, the visa fee in Pakistan is:
- Single-entry Tourist Visa: Approx. USD 50.
- Business Visit Visa: Around $70 to $100.
Visit visas do not serve as work visas. Also, they are useful for going to interviews or to look for work before a job offer is made.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a work visa to Indonesia as a Pakistani national is a detailed process which includes the right set of documents and an official job offer. With a real employer and use of proper legal channels the process is smooth and you will have a very fulfilling experience in one of Asia’s fast growing economies.
No matter what your professional growth goal in education, construction, or IT is in Indonesia there are many options available to you, however make sure that your visa process is based on sound advice and correct documentation.
