Illegal foreign workers have once again drawn regulatory attention in Indonesia, after authorities fined a company Rp360 million or approximately USD 23,000 for labor violations in Bintan, Riau Islands. The case highlights strict enforcement against illegal foreign workers operating without proper permits in strategic industrial areas.
In early January 2026, the Riau Islands Provincial Manpower and Transmigration Office, officially known as Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Transmigrasi Provinsi Kepulauan Riau (Disnakertrans Kepri), uncovered multiple compliance breaches during a labor inspection in the Galang Batang SEZ (Special Economic Zone).
The enforcement action reflects Indonesia’s broader effort to ensure that foreign employment follows manpower and immigration regulations. Authorities continue to remind companies that administrative approval, immigration permits, and employment authorization must align before any foreign worker begins work.
Illegal Foreign Workers Found in Galang Batang SEZ
During an inspection conducted on January 7, 2026, Disnakertrans Kepri reviewed employment practices across eight companies operating inside Galang Batang SEZ, located in Bintan Regency. Inspectors identified a total of 52 foreign workers. However, officials confirmed that only 21 of them complied with employment regulations.
Disnakertrans Kepri Head Diky Wijaya explained the findings. “Twenty-one foreign workers have complied with the regulations because they possess RPTKA (Foreign Manpower Utilization Plan), while the remaining 30 were working without valid documents,” he said.
The violations primarily occurred at PT Huaqiang Konstruksi Indonesia, which employed 30 foreign workers without proper authorization. Another company also violated the rules by hiring one foreign worker without complete documentation. Meanwhile, six other companies operating in the zone met all regulatory requirements.
Foreign Worker Violations Trigger Rp360 Million Fine
Foreign worker violations in this case resulted in significant financial penalties. Disnakertrans Kepri determined that employing foreign workers without an RPTKA breached Article 42 paragraph (1) of Law No. 13 of 2003 on Manpower, as amended by Law No. 6 of 2023. The violations also contravened Government Regulation No. 34 of 2021.
Following the inspection, Disnakertrans Kepri issued an official Inspection Memorandum and ordered companies to temporarily stop using unauthorized foreign workers. Authorities then imposed administrative sanctions in the form of fines.
“The fine stipulated by regulation is Rp6 million per person per month. Since the foreign workers have only been working for two months, the fine is calculated as two months multiplied by Rp6 million per person, resulting in a total fine of Rp360 million,” Diky explained.
The violating company confirmed its willingness to pay the fine. After settlement, Disnakertrans Kepri will transfer the case to the Immigration authorities for further handling.
RPTKA and Working KITAS Are Mandatory for Foreign Employment
Indonesian regulations require companies to secure an approved RPTKA before hiring any foreign worker. However, RPTKA approval alone does not grant the right to work. Foreign workers must also hold a valid Working KITAS, which is a Limited Stay Permit specifically issued for employment purposes.
A Working KITAS differs from a visit visa or general stay permit. While a visa allows entry into Indonesia, only a Working KITAS legally authorizes employment activities. Companies that ignore this requirement risk administrative sanctions, fines, and immigration enforcement.
Diky emphasized the non-negotiable nature of these obligations. “RPTKA is mandatory. Without this document, foreign workers are not allowed to work in Indonesia,” he stressed.
Immigration Follow-Up and Status of Foreign Workers
Despite the sanctions, authorities confirmed that the foreign workers involved will not face immediate deportation if their immigration status remains valid. Disnakertrans Kepri clarified that Immigration will assess the case based on stay permits and visa validity.
“As long as their visas are valid, they may remain in Indonesia. However, once their permits expire, they must return to their home country,” Diky said.
Immigration will take further action after the administrative process concludes. This step ensures coordination between manpower enforcement and immigration oversight.
Stronger Oversight of Foreign Workers in Bintan
The Bintan case serves as a clear warning to companies operating in special economic zones across Indonesia. Authorities continue to expand inspections and respond to reported violations involving foreign workers. Disnakertrans Kepri confirmed that it has received around 10 additional reports related to foreign worker compliance.
“Currently, we have received around 10 reports of alleged foreign worker violations. One has been handled, and the rest will be followed up on gradually,” Diky said.
Ultimately, businesses must ensure full compliance by securing RPTKA approval and a valid Working KITAS before employing foreign nationals. Failure to do so exposes companies to heavy fines, operational disruptions, and increased regulatory scrutiny.
Source: letsmoveindonesia.com
Image: Mark Poprocki Creative via Canva
