Before starting a business, completing the necessary administrative documents is a crucial first step. One of the key documents you must have is the Sertifikat Badan Usaha (SBU), or Business Entity Certificate.

An SBU not only affirms the legality of your business but also boosts its credibility in the eyes of clients and opens the door to various opportunities.

Let's dive into what an SBU is and why your business needs it.

What is SBU?

An Sertifikat Badan Usaha (SBU) is an official document that certifies a company has the license and capability to conduct business activities in a specific field.

SBUs are generally required for business entities in the construction sector or those that want to participate in government projects. To understand it better, let's look at the different types of SBUs based on their business field.

Types of SBUs

Construction SBU

This certificate legally validates a business entity in the construction services sector. The Construction SBU is created and issued by a Lembaga Sertifikasi Badan Usaha (LSBU) (Business Entity Certification Institute) that has been accredited by the Lembaga Pengembangan Jasa Konstruksi (LPJK) (Construction Services Development Institute).

1. Construction Consultant SBU

Unlike the SBU for construction implementers, which focuses on physical work, the Construction Consultant SBU emphasizes aspects of planning, supervision, management, feasibility studies, and the preparation of tender documents and project strategies.

2. Non-Construction SBU

The Non-Construction SBU is divided into two categories:

a. Non-Construction Consultant SBU

This SBU is designed for companies that provide general consulting services outside of the construction sector, for example, in business, law, environmental, or information technology.

b. Specialist SBU

The Specialist SBU is intended for non-construction consultancy companies operating in more specialized sectors, such as agriculture, transportation, telematics, mining, finance, education, or healthcare.

If you're still unsure whether your business needs an SBU, here is a more detailed explanation of why it is important.

Why is SBU Important for Your Business?

Having an SBU offers many advantages and can be a deciding factor in your business's success. Here’s why:

Legality

An SBU ensures your business complies with Indonesian law. This helps you avoid fines or legal issues.

Ability to Participate in Project Tenders

Especially in the construction sector, an SBU is a primary requirement for participating in large government or private project tenders.

Increased Trust:

An SBU proves that your company adheres to recognized standards and professionalism. This makes clients, partners, and other parties more confident in your business.

Wider Business Opportunities:

With an SBU, you can secure more partnerships and reach a larger market.

Easier to Get Loans/Investments

Having an SBU demonstrates that you are serious and compliant with the law. Some banks and investors often see an SBU as proof of eligibility before granting a loan or investment.

Now that you've seen the importance of an SBU in ensuring business credibility and legality, the next step is to understand the process of how to get one.

SBU Creation Procedure

The procedure for obtaining a Business Entity Certificate (SBU) in 2025, for both construction and non-construction sectors, has similar general stages but with different details and focus.

1. Document Collection

General documents include Akta Pendirian Perusahaan (Company's Articles of Association), NIB (Business Identification Number), Company NPWP (Taxpayer Identification Number), Financial Statements, and, for a Construction SBU, additional documents like SKK for PTJBU and PJSKBU, etc.

2. Document Verification & Validation

The estimated time for document verification and validation is 2-4 weeks. It can be faster or slower depending on the policies of the relevant LSBU.

3. Field Evaluation

This is done if there are issues during the verification process, such as incomplete documents, technical problems, or changes in regulations. If there are issues, the estimated time will increase by 2-3 months.

4. SBU Issuance

The SBU will be issued approximately 1-2 weeks after all data has been verified. Construction SBU documents focus on technical capabilities and strict project experience, regulated by the LPJK. This includes Construction SKK for experts, Construction Services Association KTA, project experience details recorded in SIMPAN, and proof of SMAP and construction equipment.

Conversely, Non-Construction SBU documents are more varied, focusing on legality and professional qualifications according to the business field, which are regulated by the relevant technical ministry/institution. This includes specific non-construction expert certifications and relevant Business/Professional Association KTA. Project experience and equipment requirements are not as complex as those for construction.

This is a complete guide to the SBU application procedure. Given the complexity of the detailed requirements and documents, this process can be challenging. Solusi Ijin Semarang (SIS) is ready to be your partner to simplify all your business permit administration.

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