A Practical Guide to Managing Import License Indonesia in 2025

Corporate Secretary Service Indonesia – If you’re planning to import goods into Indonesia, understanding how to manage import license Indonesia is essential. Imports play an important role in meeting the needs of the local market and providing more product variety for Indonesian consumers. However, the import process isn’t something you can take lightly, it involves several legal steps and administrative requirements.

In 2025, Indonesia continues to enforce a set of regulations to ensure all imported goods comply with national standards. For foreign and local businesses alike, knowing how to navigate this process properly is key to a smooth import experience.

Types of Import License in Indonesia

Before importing anything into Indonesia, businesses must secure the right type of import identification number (API). There are two main categories:

• API-U (General Importer Identification Number): This is for companies importing finished goods meant for resale in the domestic market.
• API-P (Producer Importer Identification Number): Reserved for manufacturers who import raw materials, components, or capital goods for production purposes.

Each type of import license Indonesia comes with its own conditions and is regulated by the Indonesian Ministry of Trade and the Directorate General of Customs and Excise.

Key Requirements for Import Permit Processing

To legally import goods, companies must prepare several documents. These fall under two main categories: administrative and supporting documents.

Administrative Documents:

• Deed of Establishment of the company
• NPWP (Tax Identification Number) for the business
• Business License (SIUP) or related trade license
• NIB (Business Identification Number) from the OSS (Online Single Submission) system
• Company Domicile Certificate
• API Certificate according to your import purpose
• Customs Access (NIK) issued by the Directorate General of Customs and Excise
• Company bank account used for trade transactions

Read Also: How to Use Importer of Record in Indonesia: A Practical Guide for Businesses

Supporting Documents:

• Invoice and Packing List for each shipment
• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill as proof of shipment
• Special permits depending on product type, such as:
• BPOM approval for food, beverages, cosmetics, and medicines
• Health certificates for consumable goods

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain Import Permits

1. Register your company through OSS (Online Single Submission): This platform is your gateway to obtaining a NIB, API, and other necessary licenses.
2. Apply for a Customs Identification Number (NIK): Submit your company profile and supporting documents to the Directorate General of Customs and Excise.
3. Get your Importer Identification Number (API): Issued by the Ministry of Trade, based on the type of goods and your business model.
4. Apply for product-specific import approvals: For certain categories like food, supplements, or cosmetics, additional approvals such as BPOM permits are mandatory.
5. Declare your goods: Before the goods arrive in Indonesia, submit an Import Declaration (PIB) to Customs, along with payment for import duties and taxes.
6. Prepare additional certifications: Depending on the goods, you may also need a Certificate of Origin, Safety or Quality Certification, and other special permits.

Handling import license Indonesia may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right knowledge and preparation, the process becomes manageable. Making sure your documents are complete and accurate from the start will save time and help avoid unnecessary delays.

If you’re looking for expert help to simplify this process, PortCorp is here to assist. As a professional import permit service provider based in Indonesia, we’re ready to support international clients who want to enter the Indonesian market legally and efficiently. Let us handle the bureaucracy, so you can focus on growing your business.

Portcorp is here as a solution for your business, also when you need Import License Indonesia. Portcorp is your comprehensive corporate secretary service in Indonesia. With our presence, you can get a dedicated company secretary to support you to what you need. Our company secretaries will track deadlines and file paperwork so your business keeps running smoothly. Contact us now on +6221-5020-8090 for your business succeed in the future!