Guide For Obtaining Restaurant License in Indonesia

Guide For Obtaining Restaurant License in Indonesia: 2024 Update

  • InCorp Editorial Team
  • 11 September 2024
  • 7 minutes reading time

Although it might not be as easy as it looks, millions dream of opening their restaurant. However, obtaining a restaurant license in Indonesia poses some challenges. Furthermore, opening and turning a new restaurant into a success requires more than hard work and dedication.

As with any business, obtaining restaurant permits and licenses requires a lot of paperwork. Failing to get proper licenses and permits will result in closure from the local government.

The retail sector, including hotels and restaurants, is changing rapidly as personal income and consumer spending increase. According to McKinsey Global Institute, 90 million new Indonesians will likely join the consuming class, making it as big as about 135 million by 2030. 

A sizeable middle-class population will be an essential part of this story. This group will look for a new house and car, filling shopping malls and restaurants. 

The Outlook for the Restaurant Industry in Indonesia

The Food market is projected to generate a significant revenue of US$250.20 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 6.02% from 2024 to 2029.

This indicates a robust expansion trend in the food sector. Within the broader food and beverage industry, the Alcoholic Drinks market, specifically out-of-home consumption in venues like restaurants and bars, is anticipated to generate US$890.4 million in revenue in 2024.

Similarly, the Non-Alcoholic Drinks market, also driven by out-of-home consumption, is expected to reach US$9.73 billion in revenue during the same year.

Additionally, the Hot Drinks market in Indonesia, particularly out-of-home sales in cafes and similar establishments, is projected to contribute US$12.23 billion to the industry in 2024.

These figures reflect the overall growth and evolving trends within the food and beverage sectors, emphasizing the importance of both in-home and out-of-home consumption as key revenue drivers.

Can Foreigners Open Restaurants in Indonesia?

Local and foreign investors can open a restaurant business in Indonesia, and the process is similar to setting up any other type of company.

Investors must establish a Direct Investment Company, which in Indonesia is known as a limited liability company (LLC), called Perseroan Terbatas (PT). The equivalent for foreign investors is a foreign-owned LLC, Penanaman Modal Asing (PT PMA).

In recent years, Indonesia has relaxed its foreign ownership restrictions in the restaurant industry. There are no longer fixed percentage limits for foreign ownership in restaurants, bars, and cafes. Foreign investors can now fully own these businesses, subject to certain conditions and requirements.

Key Regulations for Obtaining a Restaurant Business License

Indonesia has implemented a comprehensive regulatory framework to guarantee the safety and quality of food products its population consumes. These regulations protect public health and maintain consumer confidence in the country’s food supply.

  • Law No. 18/2012 on Food: Provides food safety, quality, and nutrition framework.
  • Government Regulation No. 28/2004 on Food Safety, Quality, and Nutrition: Establishes specific standards for food safety, quality, and nutritional labeling.
  • Ministerial Regulation No. 7/2013 on Good Manufacturing Practices for Food: Outlines guidelines for food manufacturers to ensure safe and hygienic production practices.
  • Ministerial Regulation No. 23/2019 on Food Safety Surveillance: Establishes the framework for food safety surveillance and monitoring.
  • Additional Regulations: Cover specific aspects such as labeling requirements, food additives, and hygiene practices.
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How to Obtain A Restaurant License

Obtaining a restaurant license in Indonesia involves a series of steps and documentation. The process can differ depending on the specific location and type of restaurant.

However, by understanding the key requirements and following the outlined procedures, you can successfully navigate the licensing process and establish your restaurant business.

Determine the Type of Permits Needed for Restaurants

  • Restaurant Business License: Required for all restaurants, including those serving food and drinks.
  • Other Licenses: Depending on the nature of your business, you might need additional licenses, such as health permits, environmental permits, or liquor licenses.

Prepare Required Documents

  • Application Form: Complete the application form provided by the licensing authority.
  • Company Registration Documents: If you’re establishing a new company, you must provide company registration documents.
  • ID/Passport: Copies of the business owners’ identification documents.
  • Taxpayer Registration Number (NPWP): The company’s NPWP.
  • Building Permit (IMB): Permits for constructing or modifying the restaurant building.
  • Disturbance Law/Hinder Ordonnantie (HO): Permits for operating a business in the location.
  • Environmental Impact Assessment (AMDAL): If required, an assessment of the environmental impact of your restaurant.
  • Health Certificate: A certificate from the local health department confirming the restaurant’s compliance with sanitary standards.
  • Fire Safety Certificate: A certificate from the fire department confirming the restaurant’s compliance with fire safety regulations.

Submit Application to Local Government

  • Tourism and Culture Agency: Typically, the application is submitted to the tourism and culture agency in the local government where your restaurant is located.
  • Online or In-Person: Some areas offer online application options, while others require in-person submission.

Verification and Inspection

  • Document Verification: The licensing authority will review your application and supporting documents.
  • Site Inspection: Officials may inspect your restaurant premises to ensure compliance with regulations.

Approval and License Issuance

  • Approval: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a notification.
  • License Issuance: The licensing authority will issue the restaurant business license and other required permits.

In addition to the required documents above, the restaurant requires an additional license for the service offered. For example, if the restaurant plans to provide alcoholic beverages, it is vital to get an Alcoholic Beverage Trading License (SIUP-MB). 

Furthermore, restaurants featuring live or pre-recorded music must obtain licenses from a record label or competent foundation that facilitates using such material. Failure to do so could trigger expensive penalties.

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The Cons of Not Having a License for Restaurant Business

A restaurant business license is crucial for operating a restaurant in Indonesia. It provides legal recognition, enhances credibility with customers and partners, and facilitates access to funding and government incentives.

Failure to comply with licensing regulations can have severe consequences. Some potential penalties for non-compliance include fines, operational closure, and legal action. Adhering to all licensing requirements and maintaining updated licenses for restaurants are essential to safeguarding the continuity and success of your business.

It’s worth noting that certain businesses may qualify for exemptions or special licenses based on their unique circumstances. Consulting with InCorp Indonesia can help you identify any available exemptions or exceptional cases that may apply to your business.

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Obtain Your Restaurant License with InCorp

InCorp Indonesia offers a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to obtaining a restaurant license in Indonesia. By partnering with us, you can benefit from the following:

  • Deep Understanding of Indonesian Law: We understand Indonesian regulations, ensuring your business remains compliant.
  • Personalized Legal Solutions: We deliver customized legal advice that addresses your business needs and objectives.
  • Efficient and Timely Services: We are dedicated to delivering efficient and timely legal services that minimize disruptions to your business operations.
  • Cost-Effective Solutions: We offer competitive pricing and adjustable billing options to suit your budget.
  • Strong Network of Local Partners: Our extensive network of local partners allows us to provide complete legal support across various regions in Indonesia.
  • Global Reach: As part of the InCorp Group, we offer global legal services to support your business expansion into other markets.

Fill out the form below to successfully establish a restaurant in Indonesia.

Daris Salam

COO Indonesia at InCorp Indonesia

With more than 10 years of expertise in accounting and finance, Daris Salam dedicates his knowledge to consistently improving the performance of InCorp Indonesia and maintaining clients and partnerships.

Get in touch with us.

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Frequent Asked Questions

The registration process may take between 4 to 8 months. However, the process is affected by many factors

In short, the steps are as follows:
  1. Building Inspection (Pemeriksaan Sarana Bangunan/PSB): every office and every warehouse of the company that will go through the product registration process will be audited by BPOM.
  2. Legal Entity Registration.
  3. Manufacturing Registration.
  4. Product Registration.

There are three things business owners need to consider before setting up a business in Indonesia: the type of business entity, capital requirements, and regulations.

Indonesian regulations separate local companies from foreign companies. Generally, foreign-owned companies (PT PMA) have more limitations than their local counterparts (Local PT). However, to pursue more foreign direct investment in the country, the government has taken several bold initiatives to increase the ease of doing business and provide numerous attractive incentives for foreign investors.