Tourism Business License Guide for Legal Travel Operations
Indonesia’s tourism sector is one of the most dynamic and lucrative industries in Southeast Asia. With over 17,000 islands, a rich cultural heritage, and millions of international visitors annually, tourism represents a key driver of economic growth.
However, operating a travel agency or tourism business in Indonesia requires more than just passion for travel — it demands legal compliance and proper licensing. Whether you’re an Indonesian entrepreneur or a foreign investor establishing a PMA (Foreign Investment Company) in the tourism sector, obtaining a Tourism Business License (TDUP) is mandatory before offering any travel-related services.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the types of tourism permits, the required documents, and the step-by-step process for securing your tourism business license in Indonesia.
Understanding the Tourism Business License (TDUP)
The Tourism Business License, officially known as TDUP (Tanda Daftar Usaha Pariwisata), is a government-issued license that allows a company to operate in the tourism sector legally. It is regulated under:
- Law No. 10 of 2009 on Tourism
- Government Regulation No. 5 of 2021 on Risk-Based Business Licensing
- Ministerial Regulation No. 4 of 2021 (Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy)
A TDUP ensures that your business meets all safety, service, and operational standards required by the Indonesian government.
Types of Tourism Business Permits in Indonesia
Depending on your business activities, you may need one or several of the following tourism-related licenses:
| Type of Business | License Required | Examples of Activity |
| Travel Agency (Biro Perjalanan Wisata) | TDUP Travel Agency | Organizing tours, ticketing, and travel packages |
| Tour Operator (Penyelenggara Perjalanan Wisata) | TDUP Tour Operator | Offering group tours, inbound/outbound travel services |
| Accommodation (Akomodasi Wisata) | TDUP Hotel/Guesthouse | Managing hotels, villas, and homestays |
| Tourism Transport Services | SIUJPT or Transport TDUP | Providing tourist shuttle, car rental, or tour bus services |
| Tourism Guides | TDUP Tourism Guide | Professional tour guiding or interpreter services |
| Entertainment & Recreation | TDUP Entertainment | Operating amusement parks, spas, or theme parks |
Each type requires slightly different documentation and inspection processes, but all must be registered via the Online Single Submission (OSS) system.
Requirements for a Tourism Business License
Before applying for your TDUP, ensure your company fulfills the following basic legal requirements:
- Legal Business Entity – Must be a registered PT (Limited Liability Company) or CV, legalized by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.
- Registered Business Identification Number (NIB) – Obtained via the OSS system, serving as your company’s main business ID.
- Business Location and Zoning Approval – The office or operational site must be within a zone designated for commercial or tourism activities.
- Paid-Up Capital – Depending on the business type, a minimum capital of IDR 50 million to IDR 2.5 billion is typically required.
- Qualified Management Team – For travel agencies, at least one certified tour manager must be part of the staff.
Required Documents for TDUP Application
Here’s the general list of documents required when applying for a tourism license:
| Document | Purpose |
| Deed of Establishment and Legalization | Proof of company formation under Indonesian law |
| NPWP (Taxpayer ID) | For taxation compliance |
| NIB (Business Identification Number) | Main business registration number |
| Proof of Office/Operational Address | Lease agreement or ownership certificate |
| Tourism Manager Certificate | Ensures qualified personnel manage operations |
| Environmental Statement (SPPL/UKL-UPL) | Confirms environmental responsibility |
| Company Profile | Overview of business activities and structure |
| Employee List | Proof of human resource compliance |
| Health & Safety Standards | Required for accommodation and recreation businesses |
All documents must be uploaded digitally through the OSS platform and may require verification by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf).
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Tourism Business License
Step 1: Establish a Legal Company
Before anything else, you must establish your company legally — either as a PT (local company) or a PMA (foreign investment company). The process includes drafting a notarial deed, obtaining Kemenkumham approval, and registering for NPWP.
Step 2: Register Your Business via OSS
Access the OSS (Online Single Submission) platform and register for a Business Identification Number (NIB). This number serves as the foundation for all subsequent permit applications.
Step 3: Complete Environmental and Location Requirements
Depending on your business scale, prepare an SPPL (Environmental Statement) or UKL-UPL (Environmental Management Document). Ensure your business location complies with the local zoning plan (RTRW).
Step 4: Apply for TDUP (Tourism Business License)
Submit the application via OSS by selecting your tourism activity classification (e.g., travel agency, hotel, tour operator). Upload all required documents and pay applicable fees.
Step 5: Verification and Field Inspection
The Tourism Office may conduct a site visit to verify your facilities, management, and service standards before issuing the license.
Step 6: Obtain the Official TDUP Certificate
Once approved, your company will receive a TDUP certificate, either digitally or in print. This license officially allows your company to operate in the tourism sector.
Benefits of Having a Tourism Business License
Obtaining a TDUP provides more than just compliance — it offers several business advantages:
- Legal Protection – Safeguards your company from penalties or forced closure.
- Access to Partnerships – Enables collaboration with airlines, hotels, and online travel platforms.
- Customer Confidence – Tourists and clients prefer licensed travel operators for safety and reliability.
- Government Support – Eligible for tourism recovery funds, tax incentives, and promotional programs.
- Ease of Expansion – Licensed businesses can easily open new branches or franchise operations.
Common Challenges in Tourism Licensing
Many travel entrepreneurs face obstacles due to incomplete documentation or misunderstanding of procedures. The most frequent issues include:
- Submitting the wrong KBLI code during OSS registration.
- Operating without local zoning approval.
- Not employing a certified tourism manager.
- Failing to renew or update the TDUP regularly.
Partnering with a professional consulting agency like Korsia Group minimizes these challenges by providing expert handling from start to finish.
How Korsia Group Assists Tourism Entrepreneurs
Korsia Group specializes in assisting tourism entrepreneurs — both local and foreign — in obtaining all necessary permits and ensuring full legal compliance.
Our services include:
- Establishment of PT or PMA companies for tourism activities.
- OSS and NIB registration.
- Preparation and submission of TDUP applications.
- Environmental documentation (SPPL, UKL-UPL).
- Consultation on business classification and KBLI codes.
- Post-license compliance monitoring and renewal.
We ensure that every client not only meets legal standards but also positions their business for long-term credibility and success in Indonesia’s competitive tourism industry.
Conclusion
Operating a tourism business in Indonesia presents massive opportunities — but only when backed by legal compliance. The Tourism Business License (TDUP) is your gateway to legitimacy, professionalism, and market trust.
From company registration and OSS setup to environmental compliance and TDUP issuance, each step plays a vital role in ensuring your operations run smoothly and legally.
With Korsia Group, the process becomes straightforward, transparent, and fully compliant with Indonesian regulations. Whether you’re establishing a travel agency, hotel, or tour operation, our experts provide end-to-end assistance tailored to your business goals.
A legitimate tourism license isn’t just a regulatory formality — it’s your passport to credibility, customer confidence, and sustainable growth in Indonesia’s tourism ecosystem.