Global Talent: Exploring Job Opportunities in Indonesian Companies

By Oleg Orlov, attorney at law in Bali:

Understanding which job positions foreigners can hold in Indonesian companies involves dealing with a complex legal system. This issue is governed by many laws and involves various government agencies, such as law enforcement, immigration, tax, and labor authorities.

In this brief overview, I'll omit details regarding work permits, establishing companies with foreign investment, obtaining work visas (KITAS), and other related topics.

Instead, I'll focus on a key aspect often overlooked by both employers and employees – the specific job roles that are accessible to foreigners.

It's essential to recognize that not all positions within Indonesian companies are open to foreign workers. Regardless of whether a company is locally owned or has foreign investment, there are restrictions in place.

The positions available to foreign applicants are determined by resolutions issued by the Ministry of Manpower and Transmigration, typically specific to each industry. Therefore, before considering employment opportunities in Indonesia, it's crucial to confirm that the desired job falls within the category open to foreign workers.

Generally, roles accessible to foreign workers are those requiring specialized skills and offering higher compensation. This is due to the availability of local candidates for unskilled labour and the need for foreign experts to train and mentor local staff. However, there are exceptions, particularly for senior administrative positions within locally owned companies.

Below is an illustrative list of positions that foreign workers can occupy in the food industry, covering production and processing. This list, approved by a resolution dating back to 2013, encompasses a diverse array of job vacancies, setting it apart from other industries where opportunities may be more limited.

For more comprehensive information, it's advisable to seek legal consultation.