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On this page you will find all the necessary information to get ready for your move to Indonesia: living and moving costs, how to move, visa process and requirements, and more.
Whether you’re moving alone or with family, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the basic aspects before you move:
| House Size | Average Moving Cost |
| 1-2 Bedroom House | £2,500 – £4,700 |
| 3-4 Bedroom House | £3,000 – £6,500 |
| +4 Bedroom House | £6,500 – £8,000 |
Disclaimer: These are estimates. The final price will depend on factors such as the distance, volume, season or method of transport.
Depending on how many items you want to move, you will choose the method of transport. Shipping by container may be more cost-effective for larger volumes, but air shipping will get your belongings to you faster, albeit at a higher price.
To relocate with your family, one family member will need to obtain a work permit, and the rest will need to apply for a dependant visa KITAS allowing children (under 18) and spouses to live and reside in Indonesia. The process follows:
Don’t forget to gather all required documents such as valid passports, certificates (birth, marriage, etc.), primary visa holder’s documentation (visa and sponsorship letter) and passport.
To move to Indonesia with your pet, you must meet certain requirements:
Understanding the Indonesian immigration system and the work permits and visas is key to planning your move.
To work in Indonesia, you must secure a job and sponsorship from an Indonesian employer first. Typically, the company that hires you will provide guidance and assistance through the process:
The work permit (IMTA) does not authorize you to reside in Indonesia, that’s why it’s also necessary to apply for a residency permit to live and work legally.
After 2 to 5 years, you may be eligible for a permanent stay permit (KITAP), allowing you to stay long-term in Indonesia.
For all the immigration information read the official page of the Directorate General of Immigration of Indonesia.
What Is the Average Salary in Indonesia?
Around IDR 7,000,000 to IDR 10,000,000 (£350 – £500). In big cities such as Jakarta, mid-level positions can be better paid, from IDR 10,000,000 to IDR 20,000,000 (£500 – £1,000).
What Is the Tax Rate in Indonesia?
If you stay in Indonesia for more than 183, you are a tax resident, meaning you will be charged according to your income (it can go from 5% to 35%).
UK citizens in Indonesia can be subject to this progressive tax system, but the Double Taxation Agreement between the UK and Indonesia can prevent double taxation.
There are some important things to know before moving to Indonesia, that will help you better navigate the transition.
1. Apply for the right visa – depending on your situation, you may need a work permit or submit a dependant visa as a family member.
2. Find a house – Look out for expat-friendly areas, real state agencies specialized in housing for foreigners or online platforms to make the process easier.
3. Get health insurance – Indonesia has a public healthcare system. It has a monthly cost and works at a basic level. For better coverage, private health insurance is recommended.
4. Arrange your finances – Set up a local bank account to start receiving your salary and manage the living expenses.
5. Inform the UK authorities about your relocation to avoid double taxation. Ensure to submit the necessary paperwork and verify your tax residency status.
6. School enrolment (if moving with children) – International schools offer IB programs, best for expat families. Local schools follow the national curricula and might not be suitable for children unfamiliar with the national education system and language.
Indonesia has a wonderfully diverse environment that varies significantly depending on the region you’re living in. Adapting to the culture, way of life, and language will be key to your experience in the country.
*Cost of Living Comparison Between United Kingdom and Indonesia, Numbeo, 2024
To give you a better idea, we created the following table with the living expenses in Indonesia compared to the UK:
| Item | Indonesia | United Kingdom |
| 12 Eggs | £2.06 | £3.38 |
| Coffee | £1.76 | £2.76 |
| Restaurant Meal | £5.70 | £25.00 |
| Public Transport Ticket | £0.57 | £2.53 |
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment in city center) | £290.77 | £1,235.00 |
| Utilities (Monthly) | £86.47 | £274.00 |
Source: Numbeo
It’s no news that Bali is a top destination for expats and digital nomads moving to Indonesia. It’s important to understand that living there is completely different from just visiting as a tourist.
Before moving to Bali…
The expat community is not only large but also culturally diverse, as people from around the world choose to start a new life there. This fosters a strong network and facilitates cultural exchange.
You can find many social clubs and groups where you will be able to share experiences, build connections and find help for newcomers.
The following are some of the major Indonesian cities that are also the top choices for expats:
Now that we covered the main information and aspects, you can start planning your trip. For any additional questions or concerns, explore our FAQs section below!
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