Following our previous “Exposed!” episode in regards to the new law and regulations to acquire and or maintain having a work permit in Indonesia, there were some comments mentioning this “news” as no more than a rumor causing a stir and widespread panic amongst the expat communities in Indonesia, and that this regulation will not move forward or be in effect anytime soon just like many other immigration rules that were previously rumored.

Unfortunately, this one is about as real as it gets. Companies have been sent formal notification to comply with said regulation per March 2015.

If you are an expat working in Indonesia – Bali specifically – your employer might notify you in near future as well. Just to ensure everyone is getting their requirements fulfilled and then you can go about your job as usual.

However, if you are unable to meet these requirements, there are other alternative to stay in Bali and have earnings without breaking the rules and regulations.

Bali is full of resources for everyone with variety of interests and skills. It is a beautiful and inspirational island. It is rich in cultural diversity, art, and also prospective business opportunities. What you need to do is think outside the box and find a profession that fits your skills and current situation while still complying with the law.

There are so many alternatives that would enable you to stay in Bali without having a KITAS / Work Permit. Having a profession in performing art, journalism, film making, agriculture/environmental field, freelance work, online teaching, and even government funded research grants is possible if you take the time to research what type of visa you need to be able to do this in Bali.

Father Google has always been kind to me in pointing direction and enlightens me with vast information and widened my knowledge, answering almost every question I have in regards to visa matters.

The Indonesian immigration website , Indonesian Embassy in USA , and Indonesian Embassy in UK provides full information and helps you understand exactly what type of visa you need to do what you want in the country, and what you need to obtain said visas. This link helps you decide which type of visa you need to apply for.

With that said, to get more details on what alternative career you can have, how to obtain it, and full scope on the subject,  Listen to “Exposed! Career Alternatives While Enjoying the Breeze of Bali” with your host Kay Armanousa on Friday, January 23 at 5pm and Saturday January 24 at 12 noon, Bali time (UTC+8)

Kay Armanousa