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Indonesia Import License

Overview

Simplify Indonesian import licensing with Business Hub Asia. We offer comprehensive services, including obtaining Importer Identification Numbers (API) and facilitating goods clearance. By streamlining the process with OSS, we ensure regulatory compliance, minimize documentation errors, and expedite logistics, reducing your risk.

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Key Features

API-U and API-P

We provide full support for obtaining API-U and API-P through the OSS and INATRADE systems, tailored to your business needs.

Customs Registration & Customs Identification Number (NIK)

Processing of company access to the Directorate General of Customs and Excise system to carry out legal import activities.

Special Goods Import Licensing

Assistance in obtaining additional import licenses from technical agencies for certain products such as cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, food, and others.

IUI & NIB Permit Assistance for Import Activities

Assistance with company legality to ensure necessary documents like NIB and IUI cover import activities.

Importer of Record (IOR) Service

Solutions for foreign companies that want to import into Indonesia without a local entity through an official IOR representative scheme.

Minimum Requirements

Company legality

NIB, NPWP, Deed, SIUP

Goods Type

Type of goods to be imported

API Category

API category required (API-U or API-P)

Supplier Data

Overseas supplier data (supplier)

HS Code

HS Code and goods specifications (if available)

Process and Timeline

1

Account Registration & Activation at OSS

Register on the OSS portal and complete the company data to obtain a NIB (Business Identification Number), which also functions as an API-U or API-P for importers. Estimated time: 1-2 working days.

2

KBLI Classification & API Type Consultation

Identify the KBLI code and API type (API-U for trade or API-P if for raw materials/manufacturers), as well as product technical requirements. Estimated time: 1-2 working days.

3

API Submission via OSS/INATRADE

Upload legal documents, NPWP, SIUP, company deed, and attachments such as CoO or SNI if needed. Estimated time: 1-3 working days.

4

Data Verification & Technical Validation

Automated integration with Customs and the Ministry of Industry, with verification per product classification and additional potential (such as VPTI). Estimated time: 3-7 working days.

5

Issuance of API and Customs Access

Once verification is complete, API and customs access (NIK) will be active through the OSS system. Estimated time: 1 working day after complete verification.

6

PIB Submission & Customs Clearance

Submit Goods Import Notification (PIB) to Customs, pay import duty & import tax according to HS Code. Estimated time: 1 day submission and 1-3 working days clearance.

*Total estimated duration of complete process: 2-4 weeks, depending on product type and document compliance.

Important Consideration

  • All import activities must be carried out by companies that have an active API and NIK.
  • Certain imported products require additional permits from technical agencies (BPOM, MOH, MOA, ESDM, etc.).
  • Using the inappropriate HS Code may result in rejection or fines during Customs inspection.
  • Foreign companies that do not yet have a local entity can use Business Hub Asia’s Importer of Record (IOR) service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an API and who is required to have one?

API (Importer Identification Number) is an official identity that must be owned by companies that want to import into Indonesia legally.

What is the difference between API-U and API-P?

API-U: for companies that import finished goods for resale.
API-P: for manufacturers that import raw materials or components for production purposes.

Can one company have two types of API?

No, it can’t. A company’s permitted business activities determine the single type of active API it can hold.

Can foreign companies import into Indonesia without a local entity?

Yes, through the Importer of Record (IOR) scheme provided by Business Hub Asia.

Do all imported goods require additional licenses?

No, they don’t. However, goods with high risk or included in the supervision category require a permit from the relevant technical agency.

Does Business Hub Asia also take care of the logistics or shipment of goods?

We focus on the legal and administrative aspects. For logistics, we can recommend reliable shipping partners.

Simplify Your Trade Operations in Indonesia

Let us assist you with import/export licensing, documentation, and customs compliance to ensure smooth international trade.

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