Business Setup Bali — PT PMA & Company Registration

Starting a Business in Bali — What You Need to Know

Indonesia offers enormous opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs, but the regulatory landscape can be complex. The PT PMA (Penanaman Modal Asing) is the primary vehicle for foreign business ownership, allowing up to 100% foreign ownership in most sectors since the 2021 Omnibus Law reforms. However, minimum capital requirements, restricted business categories, and multi-agency registration processes make professional guidance essential.

Bali’s economy is particularly attractive for businesses in tourism, technology, consulting, export-import, and creative industries. The island’s combination of low operating costs, international connectivity, growing digital infrastructure, and lifestyle appeal has made it a magnet for entrepreneurs from around the world. Whether you’re opening a restaurant in Seminyak, launching a tech startup in Canggu, or establishing a consulting firm — we’ve set up 100+ businesses across every major sector.

Our business setup package handles everything from initial structuring advice through to operational readiness. We work closely with licensed notaries, tax consultants, and immigration specialists to ensure your business is legally compliant from day one.

Business Structure Options

Choosing the right business structure is the most important decision you’ll make. The wrong structure can limit your activities, create tax inefficiencies, or even expose you to legal risks. Here are your three main options for operating a business in Bali as a foreign national:

The Business Setup Process

Phase 1: Structuring & Strategy (Week 1) — We assess your business plan, recommend the optimal company structure, advise on capital requirements and tax implications, and determine which business classifications (KBLI codes) you need. This phase prevents costly mistakes that can take months to unwind.

Phase 2: Company Registration (Weeks 2–4) — We prepare all founding documents, coordinate with the licensed notary for deed of establishment, register your company with the Ministry of Law (AHU), obtain your NIB (business identification number) through OSS (Online Single Submission), and register for NPWP (tax ID).

Phase 3: Licensing & Permits (Weeks 4–6) — Depending on your business type, we obtain required sector-specific licenses, domicile letters, and operational permits. We also set up your virtual or physical office address, which is required for company registration.

Phase 4: Operations Setup (Weeks 6–8) — We open your corporate bank account (BCA, Mandiri, or CIMB Niaga recommended for PT PMA), set up accounting systems, process KITAS work permits for foreign directors, and ensure full operational compliance.

Business Setup Costs 2026

Transparent pricing is fundamental to our approach. Here’s what a typical PT PMA setup costs in 2026, all-inclusive:

Our PT PMA setup service starts from $3,500 and includes: notary deed of establishment, AHU registration, NIB/OSS licensing, NPWP tax registration, virtual office address (12 months), and company stamp. Additional costs: KITAS work permit for director ($1,500–$2,500), corporate bank account opening assistance ($500), and sector-specific licenses (varies by industry, $500–$2,000). Total typical investment: $5,000–$8,000 to be fully operational.

For comparison, doing this independently without professional guidance typically costs 30–50% more due to multiple agency visits, document rejections, and the need for Indonesian language navigation. Our relationships with government offices streamline the process significantly.

Why Choose Bali Relocation for business setup

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreigners own 100% of a business in Bali?

Yes, through a PT PMA structure. The 2021 Omnibus Law opened most sectors to 100% foreign ownership. Some sectors remain restricted (media, some retail) or require Indonesian partnership. We assess your specific business activity against the current Positive Investment List to determine the optimal structure.

How much capital do I need to start a PT PMA?

The minimum authorized capital for a PT PMA is IDR 10 billion (approximately $620,000 USD). The minimum paid-up capital is IDR 2.5 billion (approximately $155,000 USD). These are registered amounts — they don’t all need to be in your bank account at registration, but you must demonstrate a credible plan to invest this amount.

How long does it take to set up a company in Bali?

A standard PT PMA registration takes 30–45 business days from document preparation to full operational status. This includes notary deed (5–7 days), AHU registration (7–14 days), NIB/OSS licensing (7–14 days), and bank account opening (5–10 days). With our streamlined process, we often complete setups in under 40 days.

Do I need a work visa to run my company in Bali?

Yes. If you’re a director or employee of your PT PMA, you need a KITAS work visa and IMTA work permit. Being a shareholder alone doesn’t require a work visa, but any operational involvement (signing contracts, managing staff, attending meetings) legally requires a work permit. We process KITAS alongside your company registration.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements?

PT PMA companies must file monthly tax returns (PPh 21, PPh 23, PPN), annual corporate tax returns, annual LKPM investment activity reports to BKPM, and maintain proper bookkeeping. We recommend budgeting $200–$400/month for accounting and compliance services. We can connect you with our trusted accounting partners.