Indonesia, the largest group of islands in the world, is a great place for foreigners looking for jobs. It has a rich culture, beautiful scenery, and a growing economy, making it an attractive place to work. Whether you want to teach English, work in tourism, join a company, or do volunteer work, there are many opportunities available.
This article looks into the different types of jobs available for foreigners, the key industries hiring expats, and the programmes that recruit foreign teachers. We will also cover salary expectations, visa requirements, and tips for securing a job in Indonesia.
Types of Jobs Available for Foreigners in Indonesia
While Indonesia is a growing economy, its job market can be challenging for foreigners due to strict labour laws that prioritise local workers. However, there are still several fields where expats can find employment. Below are some of the most common jobs available to foreigners in Indonesia.
1. English Teaching Jobs
Teaching English is the most common job for foreigners in Indonesia. The demand for English teachers is high due to the increasing importance of English in business, tourism, and education.
Where Can You Teach?
- Language Centres – Private institutions that offer English courses for students of all ages.
- International Schools – These schools follow foreign curricula, such as British, American, or IB (International Baccalaureate), and require native English-speaking teachers.
- Public Schools – Some government schools hire foreign teachers through special programmes.
- Universities – Some higher education institutions seek foreign lecturers for English or other specialised subjects.
- Private Tutoring – Many expats earn additional income by tutoring students privately.
Salary Expectations
- Language centres: $800 – $1,500 per month
- International schools: $2,000 – $3,500 per month
- Public schools: $1,000 – $1,500 per month
- Universities: $1,500 – $2,500 per month
- Private tutoring: $10 – $30 per hour
2. Tourism and Hospitality Jobs
Indonesia is a major tourist destination, especially in Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Lombok. This sector offers various job opportunities for foreigners, particularly in:
- Hotel management
- Travel agencies
- Diving schools
- Tour guiding
- Restaurant and bar management
Most tourism-related jobs require excellent communication skills and prior experience. Many foreigners work as travel influencers, hotel managers, or diving instructors.
Salary Expectations
- Hotel managers: $1,500 – $3,000 per month
- Tour guides: $700 – $1,500 per month
- Diving instructors: $1,000 – $2,500 per month
3. Corporate and Business Jobs
Expats with specialised skills in business, finance, or IT can find opportunities in multinational companies operating in Indonesia. Common roles include:
- Marketing and sales
- Business development
- Finance and banking
- IT and software development
- Engineering
Foreigners working in these sectors are usually hired by large multinational companies rather than local firms due to government restrictions on hiring foreign workers.
Salary Expectations
- Marketing and sales: $1,500 – $4,000 per month
- Finance and banking: $2,000 – $5,000 per month
- IT specialists: $2,000 – $6,000 per month
- Engineers: $3,000 – $7,000 per month
4. NGO and Volunteer Work
Many international organisations and NGOs operate in Indonesia, focusing on environmental conservation, human rights, and education. While these positions are often unpaid, some NGOs provide stipends or accommodation.
Common Fields in NGO Work
- Environmental conservation
- Education and community development
- Humanitarian aid
Salary Expectations
- Paid NGO positions: $800 – $2,500 per month
5. Digital Nomad and Remote Work
Indonesia, particularly Bali, has become a hotspot for digital nomads. Many expats work remotely in:
- Freelance writing and editing
- Graphic design
- IT and software development
- Social media management
- Online teaching
While Indonesia does not have a specific visa for digital nomads, many remote workers stay on tourist or business visas.
Teaching Programmes That Hire Foreigners in Indonesia
If you are interested in teaching English in Indonesia, several well-established programmes recruit foreign teachers. These programmes help with job placement, work visas, and accommodation.
1. EF (Education First) Indonesia
EF is one of the largest language schools in Indonesia, with branches in major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali. It hires foreign teachers year-round, providing training and visa assistance.
- Salary: $900 – $1,500 per month
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, TEFL certificate preferred
- Contract length: 12 months
2. Wall Street English
Wall Street English is another well-known language school that hires native English speakers to teach business professionals and adults.
- Salary: $1,200 – $2,000 per month
- Requirements: TEFL certification, previous teaching experience preferred
- Contract length: 12 months
3. The British Institute (TBI)
TBI is a prestigious English language centre in Indonesia, offering competitive salaries and benefits for teachers.
- Salary: $1,500 – $2,500 per month
- Requirements: TEFL certification, experience preferred
- Contract length: 12 months
4. Government Teaching Programmes
The Indonesian government occasionally runs programmes to recruit native English teachers for public schools and universities. These are less common but can be found through education ministries or embassies.
Visa Requirements for Working in Indonesia
Foreigners working in Indonesia must obtain a work permit (KITAS) and a work visa. The process usually involves sponsorship from an employer.
Steps to Get a Work Visa
- Secure a job offer from an Indonesian company.
- The employer applies for a work permit (IMTA) and visa sponsorship.
- Obtain a limited stay visa (VITAS) from an Indonesian embassy.
- Convert the VITAS into a KITAS (work and residence permit) upon arrival.
Most employers handle this process, but it is essential to confirm visa sponsorship before accepting a job offer.
Tips for Finding a Job in Indonesia
- Start with Online Job Portals – Websites like JobStreet, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn are useful for finding vacancies.
- Network with Expats – Join Facebook groups or expat forums to get job leads.
- Consider Recruitment Agencies – Some agencies specialise in placing foreigners in Indonesia.
- Apply Directly to Companies – Many international schools and businesses list job openings on their websites.
- Attend Job Fairs – Some international job fairs offer opportunities for foreigners.
Indonesia offers diverse job opportunities for foreigners, particularly in teaching, tourism, and corporate sectors. While securing a work visa can be challenging, many companies and programmes assist with the process. Teaching English remains the most accessible route, with several established programmes actively recruiting foreign teachers.
For those willing to navigate visa requirements and job market challenges, Indonesia provides a unique and rewarding work experience in a culturally rich environment.
