Guide to Securing An Import License in Indonesia

If you are planning to import raw materials or products in Indonesia from abroad, it is mandatory for you to have an import license. The import license allows your business to operate legally in the country and expedites the customs clearance process.

In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the key requirements, the restricted and prohibited goods, and the steps to apply for and secure an import license in Indonesia.

Choosing the Right KBLI for Your Import Activities in Indonesia

The Klasifikasi Baku Lapangan Usaha Indonesia (KBLI) is the Indonesian Standard Industrial Classification which categorizes businesses based on their activities. It is important to select the correct KBLI which aligns with your import activities, if not, then your NIB will not function as the appropriate import license for your business.

For example, if your company is involved in textile imports, then you should be registered under a KBLI related to textiles or clothing.

Requirements for Obtaining An Import License in Indonesia

Obtaining a Business Identification Number

According to the latest amendments to import regulations in Indonesia, businesses will only require a Business Identification Number (NIB) which will serve as their primary import license. Previous requirements such as applying for individual API licenses like the API-U (General Import License) and API-P (Producer Import License) are no longer necessary.

The Business Identification Number or Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB) is a mandatory identifier for businesses to operate in Indonesia. It simplifies the process of obtaining various business licenses and permits. The NIB proves that you are aware and compliant with local regulations and laws.

After the company registration in Indonesia, Emerhub’s local experts secure the NIB on your behalf to ensure you can carry out your planned business activities smoothly.

Documentation Requirements to Apply for Import License (NIB)

In order to obtain an import license in Indonesia, you must first establish a legal entity. The most common business structure that foreign investors opt for is a Perseroan Terbatas Penanaman Modal Asing (PT PMA). After establishing a PT PMA, you can apply for an import license by presenting the following documentation during the application process:

• Deed of Establishment
• Ministry of Law and Human Rights Decree
• Company Name Certificate
• Company Domicile Certificate (SKDP)
• Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP)
• Valid Shareholder and Director Identification Documents
• Business Classification Information (Relevant KBLI Codes)

Note that depending on your import activities, certain products will require additional permits, approval, or certifications from their respective local governing units. These include:

• Approval from the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) for medical devices, food and beverage products, and medicine.
• Trademark certificates for textile and footwear to the Ministry of Industry.
• Halal certification for food and beverage products.

Restricted and Prohibited Products For Import in Indonesia

Prohibited Import Products

Importing these products into Indonesia is strictly prohibited and will incur heavy penalties or criminal charges in severe cases. The products will be confiscated and businesses will incur reputational damage. The prohibited products include:

• Hazardous materials
• Narcotics and psychotropic substances
• Weapons and ammunition
• Cultural heritage goods
• Pornographic materials
• Specific harmful chemicals (ex: Ethylene Dibromide used in pesticides)

Restricted Products

Rather than an outright prohibition, restricted products require special licenses and approvals due to their nature and potential impact on consumers. The restricted products include:

• Traditional medicine and health products
• Cosmetics and personal care items
• Textiles and finished goods
• Plastic raw materials
• Electronic products

Requirements for Importing Products in Indonesia

Once you secure your import license and start importing products into the country, you will require extra documentation to ensure compliance with customs laws and regulations. To secure customs clearance, you will need:

• Commercial Invoices
• Packing Lists
• Certificate of Origin
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
• Insurance Certificate
• Customs Declaration Form
• Receipt of Payment for Import Duties and Taxes
• Additional Permits and Certifications (depending on products)

Certain products will require technical verification as part of the Import Technical Verification (VPTI) program which ensures products comply with technical regulations and safety standards. As such, importers must apply for general importer verification (VIU) and additional certifications like the Standar Nasional Indonesia (SNI) for regulated products.

Products requiring technical verification include textiles, bags, footwear, electronics, pharmaceuticals, agricultural products, and more. Alongside technical verification, a surveyor report is required, serving as a supplementary document for customs clearance.

Securing An Import License in Indonesia with Emerhub

Securing an import license is a key aspect of legally operating your import business in Indonesia. Emerhub’s experienced Indonesian team can assist you in obtaining the necessary licenses and documentation, as well as establishing a PT PMA within the country. 

The following are the steps to secure an Import License in Indonesia:

1. Register your company using the appropriate business classification (KBLI). 
2. Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP) from the local tax office.
3. Register for a NIB via the OSS System by providing the required documentation.
4. Determine the classification and identify the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products for global customs purposes and international trade.
5. Register with the Directorate General of Customs and Excise for customs clearance.

Alternatively, our local experts also offer an Importer of Record service to assist you in importing your products into Indonesia – handling the logistics and customs clearance process. This way, you don’t have to navigate the complex regulatory frameworks, local customs, and import licensing requirements. Fill out the form below and we’ll get in touch.