How to Find a Good Maid (ART) in Indonesia: Local Tips for Jakarta and Bali

21 Oct 2026 · Ayasan

How to Find a Good Maid (ART) in Indonesia: Local Tips for Jakarta and Bali

In Indonesia, a good household helper (ART, asisten rumah tangga) is part of family life, from Jakarta apartments to villas in Bali. This guide covers local tips for finding a reliable maid in Indonesia: helper types, typical pay, Lebaran, agreements and screening.

1. Choose the right arrangement

  • Live-in (menginap): stays with the family, works 6–7 days a week, with meals and lodging included.
  • Live-out (pulang-pergi): commutes daily, usually 8–10 hours, Monday to Saturday.
  • Part-time: 2–4 hours a day, suitable for apartments and light help.

Families also hire babysitters, drivers, cooks and elderly caregivers, often alongside an ART.

2. Know the typical cost

As a guide, Ayasan Indonesia lists these monthly ranges:

  • Live-in: Rp 3,500,000–7,000,000
  • Live-out: Rp 4,000,000–8,000,000
  • Part-time: Rp 1,500,000–4,500,000

For reference, Jakarta's 2026 provincial minimum wage (UMP) is about Rp 5.73 million per month. Helpers who speak English or have childcare experience earn more.

3. Plan for Lebaran and THR

Lebaran (Idul Fitri) shapes the whole helper market. Most ARTs go home (mudik) for one to two weeks, a THR holiday bonus of about one month's salary is customary, and some helpers do not come back. Many families use temporary "infal" helpers during this period. Start searching early and agree on Lebaran leave in advance.

4. Put it in writing

Indonesia's Minister of Manpower Regulation No. 2 of 2015 sets out protections for domestic workers, including a work agreement. Write down salary, hours, rest days, duties, Lebaran leave, THR and notice period.

5. Screen carefully

  • Check KTP (ID card) and work history.
  • Ask for references from previous employers.
  • Do a trial: cleaning, cooking Indonesian or Western food, caring for children.
  • Agree on house rules early: phone use, visitors and days off.

6. Yayasan or professional platform?

Traditional yayasan (agencies) are common but quality varies. A professional platform with transparent profiles, verification and replacement guarantees reduces risk.

Find your helper with Ayasan Indonesia

Ayasan Indonesia is part of Ayasan, Southeast Asia's multi-country home services platform with over 1,000,000 users. Search 2,000+ profiles with filters or AI search, interview within about 3 days, and get replacement support. Ayasan also places drivers and serves families in Bali.

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