Indonesia is one of the most exciting places to teach abroad, offering a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and an opportunity to experience life in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic countries. However, before you pack your bags to teach in the “Land of a Thousand Islands,” you need to understand the visa process for working legally in Indonesia. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to secure your Temporary Stay Permit Visa (VITAS) and Limited Stay Visa (KITAS) to work as a teacher in Indonesia.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before applying for a teaching job or visa, you must first meet the basic qualifications required by Indonesian authorities for foreign teachers:
- Bachelor’s Degree: A Bachelor’s degree is a minimum requirement. Although the degree doesn’t necessarily have to be in Education or English, those with degrees in these fields or related fields may find it easier to secure a job.
- TEFL/TESOL Certification: While not always mandatory, most schools will expect you to have a 120-hour TEFL or TESOL certificate. Some international schools may require a CELTA or other similar certifications.
- Native English Speaker: While not strictly required, many employers in Indonesia prefer native English speakers from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa. Non-native speakers with a high level of English proficiency and solid teaching credentials may also be considered.
- Teaching Experience: Many schools, especially international schools, will require at least 2 years of teaching experience in your field, though this may vary depending on the school.
- Clean Criminal Background: You must provide a criminal background check from your home country to prove you have no prior criminal convictions. The check must be recent (usually issued within the last 6 months).
- Health Check: Some schools may ask for a medical certificate stating that you’re free from contagious diseases, which may be required after arrival in Indonesia.
Step 2: Secure a Job Offer from a Licensed School
The first step in obtaining your visa is to secure a job offer from a school or educational institution that is authorized to hire foreign teachers. Indonesian schools must meet certain requirements to sponsor foreign workers, and they will be the ones to apply for your work permit and visa.
What to Look for in a Job Offer:
- A legal employment contract: The contract should specify the length of your contract (usually 1 year), your salary, benefits, working hours, and job duties.
- The school must be authorized to hire foreign teachers: Only accredited institutions can sponsor work visas. You’ll need to make sure the school is recognized by Indonesia’s Ministry of Education or Ministry of Manpower.
- Compensation package: Ensure the package includes important details like housing allowance, flight reimbursement, and health insurance. While salaries may vary, your compensation should be sufficient to cover your living expenses in Indonesia.
- Clear job description: Be sure that the contract clearly outlines your role and expectations, including the number of students, the subjects you’ll be teaching, and other responsibilities.
Many international job boards like Teach Away, Dave’s ESL Café, and Glassdoor list opportunities in Indonesia. It’s also worth reaching out directly to schools in your target city.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Once you’ve accepted a job offer, your employer will initiate the visa process on your behalf. You’ll need to provide several important documents as part of the application. These include:
- Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from your intended entry date.
- Bachelor’s Degree: A copy of your degree (translated into English if required). Some schools may require the degree to be notarized.
- TEFL/TESOL Certificate: If applicable, provide your TEFL/TESOL certificate along with proof of completion (e.g., course hours).
- Criminal Background Check: A clean criminal record check from your home country, typically issued within the last 6 months.
- Medical Certificate: Some employers may request a health certificate confirming you’re free from contagious diseases (like tuberculosis).
- Passport-sized Photos: Usually, 2–4 recent passport photos are required.
- Visa Application Form: Complete the visa application form (available at the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your home country).
- Additional Documents: Depending on the consulate and your job, other supporting documents may be required, such as teaching references or proof of prior experience.
Step 4: Employer Applies for Your Work Permit
After you’ve gathered all the required documents, your employer will apply for a Work Permit (called IMTA) with the Ministry of Manpower (Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan). The work permit process is one of the most crucial steps in securing your visa, as it must be approved before you can enter Indonesia on a work visa.
What Your Employer Will Need to Provide:
- Your qualifications (e.g., degree and TEFL certificate).
- Proof of employment (your signed contract).
- Copy of your passport.
- A copy of the school’s business registration (to prove the school is licensed to hire foreign teachers).
- A completed work permit application.
The work permit application process can take 2-3 weeks for approval. Once the work permit is granted, your employer will send you the Work Permit Approval Letter.
Step 5: Apply for the VITAS (Temporary Stay Visa)
Once your work permit is approved, the next step is to apply for a Temporary Stay Visa (VITAS). This is the visa that allows you to enter Indonesia for employment. The VITAS is valid for 60 days, during which you will need to finalize your residency and work permit status.
Required Documents for VITAS Application:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
- Work Permit Approval Letter (provided by your employer).
- Completed visa application form.
- Passport-sized photos.
- Copy of your educational certificates and TEFL certification (if required).
- Criminal background check.
Once your VITAS application is submitted to the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your home country, processing usually takes 3–5 business days.
Step 6: Enter Indonesia and Apply for the KITAS (Limited Stay Visa)
After receiving your VITAS (Temporary Stay Visa), you can travel to Indonesia. However, you must still complete a few important steps before you can begin teaching legally.
- Arrive in Indonesia: Enter Indonesia with your VITAS, which will allow you to stay in the country temporarily.
- Convert VITAS to KITAS: After arrival, you will need to convert your VITAS into a KITAS (Limited Stay Visa) at the Indonesian Immigration Office. The KITAS will allow you to stay and work in Indonesia for up to 1 year, with the possibility of extension.
- Register with Immigration: Once you’ve obtained your KITAS, you must register with the Indonesian Immigration Office and receive your Temporary Stay Permit (a plastic ID card that acts as your visa).
- Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP): You may need to apply for a NPWP (taxpayer number) in Indonesia, especially if you will be paying taxes on your income.
Bonus Tips for Teachers in Indonesia
- Start Early: The entire process can take 2–3 months, so it’s essential to begin the job search and visa application early.
- Understand the Costs: While the cost of living in Indonesia is generally affordable, salaries for foreign teachers can vary significantly based on the type of school and location. Be sure your salary is sufficient for the area where you’ll be living.
- Stay Organized: Keep both physical and digital copies of all your documents, especially during the visa process, in case anything needs to be resubmitted.
- Respect Local Culture: Indonesians are known for their warmth and hospitality, but it’s important to respect cultural norms, especially in the classroom. Learning a few phrases in Bahasa Indonesia can also help you navigate day-to-day life.