Foreign Business Setup Guide
How to Start a Retail Store in Jakarta as a British Foreigner
Everything you need to know about licenses, company setup, and compliance requirements for British entrepreneurs opening a retail store in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Licenses Required
2
Est. Cost Range
$81 - $403
Timeline
12-46 days
Quick Answer
Yes, British foreigners can start a retail store in Jakarta, Indonesia. This business activity is open to foreign investment with up to 100% foreign ownership through a PT PMA (foreign-owned limited liability company).
You will need approximately 2 licenses and can expect the process to take 12-46 business days. The estimated government and service fees range from Rp 1.250.000 to Rp 6.250.000.
Foreign Ownership Rules
Foreign Ownership
Up to 100%
DNIB Status
open
Recommended Structure
PT PMA (Foreign Investment Company) (PT PMA)
As a foreign investor opening a retail store in Indonesia, you will typically establish a PT PMA (Perseroan Terbatas Penanaman Modal Asing) — a foreign-owned limited liability company. This is the standard legal entity for foreigners conducting business activities in Indonesia.
Minimum investment capital: Rp 10.000.000.000 ($645,161).
Jakarta — Local Compliance Guidance
Specific regulations, costs, and timelines that apply to businesses setting up in Jakarta.
Cost Adjustment
25% higher
Costs in Jakarta are approximately 25% higher than the national average due to local market conditions and regulatory requirements.
Timeline Adjustment
+10 business days
Processing times in Jakarta typically take 10 additional business days compared to the national average.
About Jakarta
Jakarta as the capital has the most complex regulatory environment. The DPMPTSP Provinsi DKI Jakarta handles local investment and licensing services with 318 service points operating 100% online. Office space costs are the highest in Indonesia, and a physical or virtual office in a recognized business zone is required for company domicile.
Additional Local Requirements
These permits and requirements apply specifically in Jakarta, in addition to national requirements.
- Jakarta Business Domicile Letter (SKDU)
- Jakarta Environmental Monitoring (UKL-UPL for medium risk)
Restrictions & Warnings
Jakarta has strict zoning - verify business activity is allowed in your area
Traffic impact assessment required for large venues
Higher minimum wage (UMR DKI Jakarta) affects staffing costs
Local Investment Authority
Authority Name
DPMPTSP Provinsi DKI Jakarta
Contact
ptsp@jakarta.go.id
The local DPMPTSP (Investment and One Stop Integrated Service) office handles regional permits alongside the national OSS system.
Required KBLI Codes
KBLI (Klasifikasi Baku Lapangan Usaha Indonesia) codes identify your business activities in Indonesia's licensing system.
| Code | Risk Level | Foreign Ownership | DNIB Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47191 | low | 100% | open |
Required Licenses & Permits
Licenses required to operate a retail store in Jakarta as a foreign-owned business.
Nomor Induk Berusaha(NIB)
business_id
▾
Nomor Induk Berusaha(NIB)
business_id
Estimated Cost
Free
Free through OSS system
Processing Time
1 business days
Validity
Varies
Izin Usaha Perdagangan (Trading License)
sector_specific
▾
Izin Usaha Perdagangan (Trading License)
sector_specific
Estimated Cost
Rp 1.000.000 - Rp 5.000.000
Trading license through OSS. Cost varies by trade scale.
Processing Time
7 business days
Validity
60 months (renewable)
Get Your Free Compliance Checklist
Tailored to your specific business type, location, and nationality.
Step-by-Step Setup Process
The typical process for a British entrepreneur setting up a retail store in Jakarta (11 steps).
Prepare Documentation
~7 daysGather your passport, proof of address, apostilled documents, and prepare a retail business plan including product range, store layout, and location analysis.
Reserve Company Name via AHU Online
~3 daysSubmit 3 company name choices to Kemenkumham through the AHU Online system. Names must be in Bahasa Indonesia with at least 3 words.
Draft Deed of Establishment with Notary
~7 daysWork with a notary to prepare articles of association with KBLI code 47191 (retail trade). Define your retail product categories clearly in the deed.
Register with Kemenkumham
~14 daysSubmit the notarial deed for legal entity approval. Your PT PMA will be registered with retail trade KBLI codes.
Obtain NIB through OSS
~1 dayRegister on OSS to get your NIB. Select KBLI code 47191 for retail activities. Retail stores are typically classified as medium-risk.
Apply for Izin Lokasi (Location Permit)
~14 daysObtain location approval from local government confirming your chosen premises is zoned for commercial retail operations.
Apply for SIUP or Trading License
~7 daysObtain the Surat Izin Usaha Perdagangan (Trade Business License) or equivalent through OSS. This authorizes your company to conduct retail trading activities.
Obtain PBG (Building Permit) for Renovations
Optional~21 daysIf renovating or fitting out your retail premises, apply for the Persetujuan Bangunan Gedung (PBG) from the local government for any structural changes.
Open Corporate Bank Account
~14 daysOpen a corporate bank account at a major Indonesian bank and deposit the required paid-up capital. Set up POS payment processing for your retail store.
Register for Tax (NPWP & PKP)
~7 daysObtain company NPWP and register as PKP. Retail stores must collect 11% VAT on sales and issue tax invoices through e-Faktur for B2B transactions.
Apply for Work Permits (RPTKA/IMTA) & KITAS
~45 daysApply for RPTKA and IMTA through the Ministry of Manpower, then obtain KITAS stay permits through immigration.
Estimated Total Timeline
119 days(4 months)
Based on mandatory steps processed sequentially. Actual timeline may vary depending on government processing speeds and document readiness. Some steps can run in parallel.
Estimated Costs Breakdown — Jakarta
Approximate government and service fees adjusted for Jakarta (25% above national average). Excludes ongoing operational costs.
| Item | Low Estimate (IDR) | High Estimate (IDR) | USD Approx. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Establishment (Notary + Legal) | Rp 18.750.000 | Rp 43.750.000 | $1,210 - $2,823 |
| Kemenkumham Registration | Rp 1.250.000 | Rp 2.500.000 | $81 - $161 |
| NIB / OSS Registration(Free (government)) | Free | Free | Free |
| Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB)(Free through OSS system) | Free | Free | Free |
| Izin Usaha Perdagangan (Trading License)(Trading license through OSS. Cost varies by trade scale.) | Rp 1.250.000 | Rp 6.250.000 | $81 - $403 |
| Work Permit (RPTKA + IMTA) | Rp 18.750.000 | Rp 31.250.000 | $1,210 - $2,016 |
| KITAS Visa | Rp 6.250.000 | Rp 15.000.000 | $403 - $968 |
| Virtual / Physical Office Address(Per year) | Rp 6.250.000 | Rp 37.500.000 | $403 - $2,419 |
| Total Estimated Range | Rp 52.500.000 | Rp 136.250.000 | $3,387 - $8,790 |
Note: Minimum investment capital for a PT PMA is Rp 10.000.000.000 ($645,161). This is separate from the setup costs above.
Visa & Work Permit Requirements
As a Britishnational, you'll need the right visa to live and work in Indonesia while running your retail store.
Recommended: Investor
KITAS Investor
- Duration: 24 months
- Estimated cost: $1,500
- Company sponsorship required
Alternative: Work Permit
KITAS Investor
- Duration: 24 months
- Min. salary: $1,200/month minimum
- RPTKA approval needed first
British citizens can enter Indonesia visa-free for up to 30 days or on a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for tourism. However, to work and operate a business, you must obtain the appropriate stay permit (KITAS/KITAP).
Guidance for British Entrepreneurs
Country-specific information for British nationals setting up a business in Indonesia.
Recommended Visa Pathway
Investor KITAS. UK has no special bilateral agreement simplifying visa processing. Standard RPTKA pathway.
Estimated processing time: 35 business days
Tax Treaty Information
UK-Indonesia DTA in effect. UK taxes worldwide income. No National Insurance totalization. Pension contributions cannot be transferred.
Common Issues for British Nationals
Post-Brexit: no EU trade advantages in Indonesia
Sterling conversion rates affect capital requirements
UK professional qualifications may need separate Indonesian recognition
Document Requirements for British Citizens
- Documents must be apostilled (UK is Hague Convention member)
- DBS check required for KITAS
- UK solicitor-notarized documents accepted
Embassy & Consulate
British Embassy Jakarta: Jl. Patra Kuningan Raya Blok L5-6. British Honorary Consul Bali available for emergencies.
Business Culture Tips
British formality is appreciated in Indonesian business settings. Tea is often served at meetings - accepting is polite. Patience with bureaucracy is essential.
Common Pitfalls & Tips
Operating on a Tourist Visa
Many foreigners try to start a business while on a tourist visa or VoA. This is illegal and can result in deportation and blacklisting. Always obtain proper business documentation first.
Using Nominee Structures Illegally
While nominee arrangements are common, undisclosed nominee structures violate Indonesian law. If foreign ownership is restricted, work with a qualified lawyer to find compliant alternatives.
Underestimating Capital Requirements
PT PMA companies have minimum investment and paid-up capital requirements. Ensure you meet these thresholds before starting the registration process for your retail store.
Ignoring Local Permits
Jakarta may have specific local permits (izin usaha) beyond national requirements. Check with the local DPMPTSP (investment office) for Jakarta-specific requirements.
Missing Tax Obligations
Indonesia has strict tax reporting requirements including monthly VAT returns, employee tax withholding (PPh 21), and annual corporate income tax. Non-compliance leads to significant penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a British citizen own 100% of a retail store in Jakarta?
▾
Yes, British nationals can own 100% of a retail store in Jakarta through a PT PMA (foreign-owned limited liability company). All 1 KBLI code required for this business type allow full foreign ownership.
What licenses do I need to start a retail store in Jakarta?
▾
You will need 2 licenses to operate a retail store in Jakarta. These include: NIB, Izin Usaha Perdagangan (Trading License). All licenses are obtained through Indonesia's OSS (Online Single Submission) system and sector-specific authorities.
How much does it cost to set up a retail store in Jakarta?
▾
Based on the 2 required licenses, government and service fees for a retail store in Jakarta range from Rp 1.250.000 to Rp 6.250.000 (approximately $81 to $403). This excludes the minimum investment capital of Rp 10 billion required for PT PMA companies, office rental, and ongoing operational costs.
How long does it take to set up a retail store in Jakarta?
▾
The typical timeline is 12-46 business days from start to fully operational in Jakarta. This includes company registration, obtaining all 2 required licenses, and visa processing. Working with an experienced agent can help run some steps in parallel and reduce the total time.
Do I need a local partner to start a retail store in Indonesia?
▾
No, you do not need a local partner. All 1 KBLI code for a retail store allow 100% foreign ownership, so you can establish a fully foreign-owned PT PMA in Jakarta without any Indonesian shareholders.
What visa do I need as a British to run a business in Indonesia?
▾
You will need either an Investor KITAS (stay permit) or a Work KITAS, sponsored by your Indonesian company. Tourist visas and Visa on Arrival do not permit business activities. The Investor KITAS is typically recommended for business owners, while the Work KITAS is for employees of the company.
Can I operate my retail store from Jakarta remotely?
▾
Your PT PMA must have a registered physical or virtual office address in Jakarta. You can manage operations remotely as long as you maintain compliance with tax and reporting obligations, including monthly VAT returns and quarterly LKPM (investment activity reports). Directors must attend certain regulatory meetings in person.
What are the ongoing compliance requirements?
▾
You must file monthly tax returns (VAT, employee tax), submit an annual corporate tax return, renew applicable licenses (you have 2 to track), maintain LKPM (investment activity reports) quarterly, and keep company records with your notary. Non-compliance can result in license revocation and penalties.
Data verified against official Indonesian government sources
Every data point is marked with its verification status. We source from OSS.go.id, BKPM, Imigrasi.go.id, and Peraturan.go.id. This is informational guidance — always confirm with a licensed Indonesian lawyer for your specific situation.
Ready to start your retail store in Jakarta?
Get a personalized compliance dashboard tracking every license, permit, and deadline for your specific business setup.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or professional advice. Regulations in Indonesia change frequently. Always consult with a qualified Indonesian lawyer and licensed tax consultant before making business decisions. Information on this page was last reviewed in March 2025 and may not reflect the most current regulations. IndonesiaCompliance is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.