Open An Indonesian Bank Account and Get QRIS as a Foreign Business in Indonesia

For foreign Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) providers, mobile applications, marketplaces, and digital platforms targeting Indonesian users, offering QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) payments is increasingly becoming a commercial necessity rather than simply an additional payment option.

However, obtaining QRIS is not as straightforward as registering for a payment gateway. Before a foreign application can accept QRIS payments, it must first establish the appropriate legal presence, obtain the required business licences, owning an Indonesian back account, and register through a licensed Payment System Service Provider (PJP) supervised by Bank Indonesia.

This guide explains how foreign apps can apply for QRIS in Indonesia, the licensing pathways available, and the steps required to become a QRIS-enabled merchant.

What is QRIS?

QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) is Indonesia’s national QR payment standard introduced by Bank Indonesia to standardise digital payments across banks and electronic wallets.

Instead of displaying multiple QR codes from different payment providers, merchants only need one interoperable QR code that accepts payments from participating banks and digital wallets, including:

• GoPay
• OVO
• DANA
• ShopeePay
• Mobile banking applications
• Other licensed payment providers

Today, QRIS has become one of Indonesia’s preferred digital payment methods, serving tens of millions of users and merchants nationwide.

Some key features include:

QRIS is also expanding internationally through cross-border payment cooperation with countries including Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, and China.

Compliance with Ministry of Trade Regulation No. 31 of 2023

Before integrating QRIS, foreign digital businesses should ensure they comply with Ministry of Trade Regulation (Permendag) No. 31 of 2023, which governs Electronic Commerce (PMSE) activities in Indonesia. Key compliance requirements include:

Social Commerce Separation

Digital platforms combining social networking with commercial transactions must clearly separate social interaction from the purchasing process.

Consumer Protection

Businesses should provide:

• Indonesian-language complaint channels
• Local customer support
• Dispute resolution mechanisms
• Contact details for the Directorate General of Consumer Protection (PKTN)

Foreign businesses operating through a representative office or Indonesian company are expected to maintain a local point of contact.

Cross-Border Trade Requirements

For cross-border goods transactions, Indonesia imposes minimum import pricing requirements under certain circumstances.

Although these rules generally do not apply to SaaS subscriptions, marketplaces facilitating physical goods should review their compliance obligations carefully.

Can Foreign Apps Apply for QRIS Directly?

No. QRIS is not issued directly by Bank Indonesia to businesses or digital applications.

Instead, businesses obtain QRIS by registering as a merchant through a licensed Payment System Service Provider (PJP). Before approaching a licensed PJP, foreign apps must first establish the appropriate legal and licensing structure in Indonesia. There are two common pathways available.

Route 1: Foreign PPMSE Through a KP3A Representative Office

Foreign applications that provide digital products or services to Indonesian customers without establishing a local company may operate as a Foreign Electronic Commerce System Operator (PPMSE Asing).

Under current regulations, qualifying foreign platforms may be required to establish a:

• KP3A (Foreign Trade Representative Office)
• SIUP3A licence
• PSE registration

This pathway is generally suitable for overseas companies that wish to maintain their foreign legal entity while operating commercially in Indonesia.

Typical obligations include:

• PSE Registration
• SIUP3A licensing
• Local representative appointment
• Compliance with Indonesian electronic commerce regulations

Route 2: Establish a PT PMA in Indonesia

Many international SaaS providers choose to establish a PT PMA (Foreign-Owned Company) to operate directly in Indonesia.

A PT PMA enables businesses to:

• Conduct commercial activities locally
• Hold Indonesian business licences
• Register under the OSS system
• Contract with Indonesian customers
• Bank account opening
• Apply for merchant payment facilities, including QRIS

Depending on the nature of the digital platform, businesses may also require registration under the relevant KBLI classification and obtain both PSE and PPMSE licences.

For companies planning long-term expansion in Indonesia, this route generally provides greater operational flexibility.

Open a Bank Account in Indonesia

Before integrating QRIS payments, businesses should first open an Indonesian bank account to receive settlements from customers. Whether you are establishing a PT PMA or operating through a representative office, having a corporate account is an essential step towards banking in Indonesia and conducting compliant commercial activities.

For companies expanding into Indonesia as a foreigner, opening an Indonesian bank account demonstrates a stronger local presence and simplifies day-to-day business operations, including payroll, tax payments, supplier transactions, and customer settlements in rupiah.

Corporate Documents

• Deed of Establishment
• Ministry approval
• Business Identification Number (NIB)
• Tax Identification Number (NPWP)
• Company licences

Company Representatives

Banks will also verify:

• Directors’ identification
• Authorised signatories
• Company ownership information
• Corporate structure

Depending on the bank, directors may also be asked to present their Passport and, where applicable, a valid KITAS as supporting identification during the account opening process.

Most corporate accounts also require an initial deposit, although the minimum amount varies between financial institutions.

Opening an Indonesian bank account early during the incorporation process helps streamline payment integration, including QRIS registration, and enables businesses to manage transactions more efficiently from the outset.

International Banks in Indonesia

Foreign-owned companies and multinational businesses often choose international banks because of their global banking networks, multilingual services, and familiarity with overseas transactions. Several providers like OCBC and HSBC may also offer easier access for international transactions using global currency, such as USD or EUR.

International banks may offer:

• Multi-currency corporate accounts
• International fund transfers
• Trade finance solutions
• Corporate treasury services
• Cross-border banking support

For international businesses and expats relocating or living in Indonesia, these institutions can provide a smoother transition while maintaining connections with overseas banking relationships.

Local Banks in Indonesia

Indonesia’s domestic banks remain the preferred choice for many companies seeking efficient local payment services and QRIS integration.

Having local bank account generally provides:

• Faster domestic fund transfers
• Extensive branch and ATM networks
• Corporate internet banking
• Business debit cards
• QRIS merchant services
• Competitive transaction fees

Many banks also support digital account management, with selected institutions offering saving account online facilities for eligible customers, although availability depends on the applicant’s residency status and the bank’s internal policies.

How to Apply for QRIS for Foreign Apps

Once the appropriate legal structure has been established, businesses may proceed with QRIS registration.

Obtain PSE and PPMSE Licences

as an applicant, businesses generally require to fill several application forms for license process such as:

PSE Registration

Electronic System Operator registration with the Ministry of Communication and Digital.

PPMSE License

Electronic Commerce licence issued through Indonesia’s OSS system.

These licences demonstrate that the platform is authorised to conduct digital commercial activities in Indonesia.

Choose a Licensed Payment System Service Provider (PJP)

QRIS registration is processed through licensed acquiring institutions.

These include:

• BCA
• Bank Mandiri
• BNI
• Bank Mega
• GoPay
• OVO
• Other licensed PJPs

Selecting the appropriate provider often depends on transaction volume, customer profile, and integration requirements.

Register as a QRIS Merchant

The selected PJP will request supporting corporate documentation.

Typical requirements include:

• Company deed
• Ministry approval letter
• NPWP
• NIB
• PSE Registration
• PPMSE Licence
• Corporate bank account
• Director identification

Once approved, the merchant receives:

• National Merchant ID (NMID)
• QRIS activation

Registration generally takes only a few working days following successful verification.

Review Indonesian Tax Obligations

Foreign digital businesses should also assess whether Indonesian tax registration is required.

Depending on revenue levels and business activities, companies may need to:

• Register for VAT (PPN)
• Collect VAT on digital services
• Submit Indonesian tax reports

Tax compliance operates independently from QRIS registration but should be reviewed simultaneously to minimise regulatory risks.

Open a Bank Account and Get QRIS to Operate in Indonesia with LMI Consultancy

Successfully obtaining QRIS involves far more than simply completing a merchant application. Foreign digital businesses must first establish the appropriate legal structure, secure the necessary licences, ensure regulatory compliance, and coordinate with licensed financial institutions before QRIS activation can proceed.

At LMI Consultancy, we provide comprehensive support for foreign SaaS providers, marketplaces, fintech companies, and digital platforms looking to expand into Indonesia.