Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from foreign clients about Indonesian legal matters. For advice specific to your situation, please contact us for a consultation.
Can a foreigner own property in Bali?
Foreigners cannot hold freehold (Hak Milik) title in Indonesia, but they can acquire property through: (1) Hak Pakai (Right to Use) for up to 30 years, extendable; (2) Hak Sewa (lease); or (3) buying property through a PT PMA (foreign-owned company). Each structure has different tax, succession, and practical implications.
How long does it take to set up a PT PMA?
Standard PT PMA establishment takes 4-8 weeks from initial document preparation to OSS NIB issuance, depending on the business sector and required permits. We offer expedited services for straightforward structures.
What is the minimum investment for a PT PMA?
The minimum paid-up capital is IDR 10 billion (approximately USD 630,000) per company, of which at least 25% must be paid at incorporation. The investment plan (Rencana Penanaman Modal) is filed with BKPM.
Do I need a KITAS to buy property?
No — purchasing property does not require a KITAS (limited stay permit). However, having a KITAS, KITAP, or other long-stay permit makes acquiring Hak Pakai title much simpler and faster.
Can I get a divorce in Indonesia if I married abroad?
Yes. Marriages performed abroad can be registered in Indonesia through the Office of Religious Affairs (Kantor Urusan Agama) for Muslim marriages or the Civil Registry Office (Dinas Kependudukan dan Pencatatan Sipil) for non-Muslim marriages, after which an Indonesian court can grant divorce.
How much does a prenuptial agreement cost?
Prenuptial agreements (perjanjian pranikah) in Indonesia must be notarized. The total cost typically ranges from IDR 8-25 million depending on the complexity of the agreement and whether translation is required.
What is BKPM and what does it do?
BKPM (Badan Koordinasi Penanaman Modal / Indonesia’s Investment Coordinating Board) is the central authority for foreign investment licensing. Since 2018, many BKPM functions have moved to the OSS (Online Single Submission) system, but BKPM remains the regulator for larger investment thresholds and certain restricted sectors.
How do I register a trademark in Indonesia?
Trademark applications are filed with DJKI (Direktorat Jenderal Kekayaan Intelektual). The process typically takes 9-12 months to registration and provides 10 years of protection, renewable. Foreign applicants must use a local IP attorney.
Do you handle cases outside Bali?
Yes — our team handles matters throughout Indonesia. We regularly work with associate counsel in Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, and other major cities. Travel fees apply for in-person matters outside Bali.
What languages do you work in?
We provide legal services in Bahasa Indonesia (our working language for filings) and English (our primary client-facing language). For Japanese, Mandarin, Korean, French, or Russian-speaking clients, we coordinate with sworn translators.
Still have questions?
We respond to all inquiries within 24 business hours. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation with one of our attorneys.