Introduction
Registering a consulting company in Indonesia is one of the most popular business opportunities for both foreign investors and local entrepreneurs. The consulting sector continues to grow rapidly, covering diverse industries such as management, financial services, information technology, and human resources. As more companies in Indonesia require professional expertise to remain competitive, consulting businesses are becoming an essential part of the local economy.
However, establishing a consulting company in Indonesia requires more than just choosing a business idea. Entrepreneurs must comply with strict legal, tax, and employment regulations that are enforced by Indonesian authorities. Failing to follow these requirements may result in fines, delays, or even the suspension of business operations. For this reason, a compliance checklist for registering a consulting company in Indonesia is critical for anyone planning to enter this market.
This 2025 guide provides a step-by-step overview of the compliance process, including company formation, licensing under the Online Single Submission (OSS) system, tax registration with the Directorate General of Taxes, and rules for employing both local and expatriate staff. It highlights the most important requirements that entrepreneurs must fulfill in order to operate legally and successfully in Indonesia.
For foreign investors who wish to expand into Indonesia, the most common structure is the Foreign Investment Company in Indonesia (Perseroan Terbatas Penanaman Modal Asing – PT PMA). Establishing this entity allows investors to hold shares legally while enjoying access to the Indonesian consulting market. Working with a professional advisory firm such as MAM Corporate Solutions ensures that the process of registering a consulting company is smooth, compliant, and aligned with long-term business goals.
By combining accurate business planning with strong legal compliance, consulting firms can build credibility, protect their operations, and take advantage of Indonesia’s fast-growing demand for professional services.
If you are planning to set up a company, consider establishing a Foreign Investment Company in Indonesia with the support of MAM Corporate Solutions. This structure not only ensures compliance with business laws but also strengthens eligibility for the Golden Visa.
What is a Consulting Company in Indonesia?
A consulting company in Indonesia is a professional service business that provides specialized expertise and strategic advice to clients across different sectors. These companies help organizations improve efficiency, reduce risks, and achieve growth by offering tailored solutions based on industry knowledge and experience.
The most common types of consulting companies in Indonesia include:
- Management consulting – Assisting businesses with strategy development, organizational restructuring, operations management, and long-term planning.
- Financial consulting – Offering tax planning, financial audits, compliance advice, and investment strategy guidance to companies and individuals.
- Information technology consulting – Supporting businesses with digital transformation, cybersecurity, systems integration, and technology adoption.
- Human resources consulting – Helping companies manage recruitment, training programs, employee relations, and workforce development.
👉 Related Internal Link: Learn how MAM’s Tax Compliance Service keep consulting firms aligned with Indonesian regulations.
For foreign investors, consulting businesses must be formally registered as a Foreign Investment Company in Indonesia (Perseroan Terbatas Penanaman Modal Asing – PT PMA). This is the only legal structure that allows foreign ownership of a consulting company. Without this entity, foreign entrepreneurs cannot hold shares directly and may risk fines, license revocation, or even suspension of business operations.
The consulting sector in Indonesia is not only attractive for its growth potential but also for its role in supporting the country’s economic development. Companies across industries rely on consulting firms to navigate complex regulations, adopt global best practices, and stay competitive in Southeast Asia’s fast-evolving market.
By establishing a legally compliant consulting company in Indonesia, both local and foreign entrepreneurs can build trust with clients, secure long-term contracts, and contribute to the professional services industry that is increasingly in demand.
Compliance Checklist for Registering a Consulting Company
Foreign investors must form a Foreign Investment Company (PT PMA) to operate a consulting business legally. Requirements include:
- At least two shareholders.
- One director and one commissioner.
- Capital requirements depending on scale and sector.
The Business Identification Number (Nomor Induk Berusaha – NIB) is the main license issued through the OSS (Online Single Submission) system.
- Serves as the company’s unique identifier.
- Required for tax, customs, and social security registrations.
Consulting businesses must register under the correct KBLI code (Indonesian Standard Business Classification). For example:
- 70209 for business and management consulting.
- 62020 for IT consulting.
The chosen KBLI must match your service scope. Incorrect classification can lead to application rejection.
Tax registration is mandatory for all consulting companies. Key requirements:
- Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP).
- Register for VAT (Value Added Tax) if turnover exceeds the threshold.
- Ensure monthly and annual tax filings are consistent with company reports.
If your consulting firm hires expatriates:
- A Foreign Worker Utilization Plan (RPTKA) must be approved.
- Foreign employees need work and stay permits (KITAS).
- All staff, both local and foreign, must be registered with BPJS Ketenagakerjaan (employment insurance) and BPJS Kesehatan (health insurance).
Common Challenges in Consulting Company Registration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. By registering as a PT PMA, foreign investors can own 100% of a consulting business, provided they meet the minimum capital requirements.
On average, registration takes 6–8 weeks, depending on documentation readiness and OSS approvals.
Generally, the investment value must be at least IDR 10 billion, but paid-up capital can be structured flexibly.
Yes, but only with a valid RPTKA and work permits (KITAS). Without these, hiring expatriates is illegal.
Failure to register for VAT once exceeding the threshold can result in fines and audits by the Directorate General of Taxes.
Key Takeaways
✅ Consulting firms in Indonesia must be registered as PT PMA for foreign ownership.
✅ NIB from OSS is mandatory for licensing and compliance.
✅ Tax, employment, and BPJS registration are essential obligations.
✅ Avoid common mistakes by aligning OSS data, KBLI codes, and tax filings.
How MAM Corporate Solutions Can Support
Registering a consulting company in Indonesia requires careful planning and strict compliance with legal and tax regulations. From company formation to licensing and employment, every step must align with Indonesian law to protect your investment and credibility.
Contact MAM Corporate Solutions today or fill in the form below for expert assistance in registering your consulting company in Indonesia, securing licenses, and ensuring full compliance for long-term success.
- Define the mission and
- Ensure compliance with laws and consult legal
- Prepare sufficient capital (especially for foreign founders).
- Establish a transparent governance
- Set up efficient systems for fundraising and donations.
- Stay compliant with tax and reporting obligations
