Notary Services in Indonesia for Foreigners (Legal Guide)

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Notary services in Indonesia for foreigners. Photograph: Karola G via Pexels

When doing business, buying property, or setting up a company in Indonesia, you’ll quickly come across one key professional: the notaris (notary public). 

For foreigners, understanding what notaries do — and what they legally can or cannot handle — is essential to avoid costly mistakes.

This guide breaks down how notary services in Indonesia work, what documents they handle, and what expats should prepare for.

Understanding the Role of a Notary (Notaris)

In Indonesia, a notaris is a licensed public official appointed by the government to authenticate legal documents and ensure they comply with national law. 

Unlike in many Western countries, Indonesian notaries have a much broader legal role — closer to a civil law notary than a simple signature witness.

Their work is regulated under Law No. 2 of 2014 on the Position of Notary, which outlines their authority to draft, verify, and register official deeds.

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Common Services for Foreigners

If you’re an expat living, investing, or doing business in Indonesia, here are the most common notarial services you might need:

• Company Establishment — Drafting and legalizing Deed of Establishment (Akta Pendirian) for PT or PT PMA companies.
• Property Transactions — Preparing and verifying Deed of Sale and Purchase (Akta Jual Beli), lease agreements, and powers of attorney.
• Marriage Agreements (Prenups/Postnups) — Essential for mixed-nationality couples where one spouse is a foreigner.
• Inheritance and Wills — Legalizing wills or inheritance documents that involve foreign heirs or assets.
• Loan or Mortgage Deeds — Drafting notarized agreements between lenders and borrowers.
• Translation & Legalization — Certifying translated documents for use in Indonesia or abroad.

In many cases, a notary also works closely with PPAT (Land Deed Officials), especially in property-related matters. Often, a single office holds both roles.

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Bank Account Opening in Indonesia: Requirements, Types, and Procedures for Foreigners

Choosing the Right Notary

Notary services in Indonesia for foreigners. Photograph: Karola G via Pexels

When selecting a notary in Indonesia, expats should consider the following:

1. Check their license — All notaries must be registered under the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkumham).
2. Ask about English fluency — While many Jakarta or Bali notaries are fluent, others may not be; accurate translation is critical.
3. Confirm their scope — Some notaries specialize in corporate law, others in family or property. Choose one aligned with your needs.
4. Discuss fees upfront — Notary fees are not standardized; they vary based on document complexity and property value. Expect anywhere from IDR 2–10 million for most services.

Where to Find Reliable Notary Services

Major cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya have law firms and notary offices that regularly assist foreign clients. 

Some reputable firms with English-speaking notaries include:

• Makarim & Taira S. (Jakarta) – corporate and property law specialists
• Tumbuan Pane & Partners – experienced with company formations
• Bali Legals (Denpasar) – property and visa documentation for expats

Alternatively, for company registration or property transactions, expats can also go through one-stop business consultants like Cekindo or Emerhub, who coordinate with licensed notaries on your behalf.

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Tips Before Signing Any Notarial Document

• Always read the translated version of your document before signing.
• Verify the notary’s registration number on the Kemenkumham database.
• Keep digital copies of all notarized documents.
• For cross-border use, you may need apostille or legalization through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Whether you’re setting up a company, buying property, or drafting a marriage agreement, notary services in Indonesia are an unavoidable and essential part of the process. 

Working with a qualified, English-speaking notary ensures that your documents are valid, compliant, and safe — protecting your investment and peace of mind.

If you’re new to Indonesia’s legal landscape, take time to find the right professional. The right notary can make all the difference between a smooth transaction and a stressful legal mess.

References

• Law No. 2 of 2014 on the Position of Notary
• Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkumham): https://www.kemenkumham.go.id/
• Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM): https://www.bkpm.go.id/
• Makarim & Taira S. Law Firm: https://www.makarim.com/