A Practical Guide to OSS-RBA Business Licensing for New PT PMA Companies

Understanding the OSS-RBA framework

OSS-RBA is the risk-based Online Single Submission system operated by the central government. It is used to apply online for the Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB, business identification number), business licenses, and other permits. Under the implementing rules of the Job Creation Law, the risk level of each business activity determines which requirements apply, ranging from a self-declaration to a standard certificate or a specific permit.

For a PT PMA, the licensing stage usually begins once the company has been legally established and its shareholder, capital, and business activity data match the deed of establishment. Mismatches between the notarial deed and the OSS submission are a common cause of delay, so checking the details before filing is strongly recommended.

Preparing before you file

Before submitting, confirm that the chosen activities correspond to the Indonesian Standard Industrial Classification (KBLI) and are open to foreign investment. Some sectors have foreign ownership limits, minimum capital requirements, or partnership conditions that should be reviewed first.

Documents typically prepared include the deed of establishment and its latest amendments, the approval from the competent authority, identification of directors and commissioners, proof of business premises, and a description of planned activities. Foreign-language documents usually need to be translated and legalized in line with the applicable rules.

Filing and follow-up

The applicant files through an OSS account by entering company, activity, and location data. The system then assigns a risk level to each activity and displays the requirements that must be met. For certain higher-risk activities, further permits may be required from the relevant ministry, agency, or regional government.

After the NIB is issued, the company should monitor ongoing obligations, such as investment activity reporting and compliance with any sector-specific standards. Data in the system should be updated promptly whenever shareholders, capital, or business addresses change. This article is general information, not legal advice.