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Selling cosmetics in Indonesia requires one essential regulatory step: obtaining a cosmetic notification approval from Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan (BPOM).
This article explains the step-by-step BPOM cosmetic notification process, including who can apply, required documents, fees, and timeline.
Looking for the Complete Regulatory Framework?
For a complete overview of cosmetic compliance requirements in Indonesia — including registration pathways, documentation, timelines, and foreign company requirements — read our comprehensive guide.
Complete Guide to Cosmetic Registration in Indonesia →1. What Is BPOM Cosmetic Notification?
In Indonesia, cosmetics do not go through full product registration. Instead, they follow a notification system.
Under this system:
- The company declares product safety and compliance
- BPOM reviews the submission
- If approved, BPOM issues a Notification Number (NA)
The Notification Number must appear on the product label before the product can be legally distributed in Indonesia.
2. Who Can Apply?
Only an Indonesian legal entity can submit a cosmetic notification. Eligible applicants include:
- Local cosmetic manufacturers
- Licensed importers
- Companies with contract manufacturing agreements
Note: Foreign brands cannot apply directly. They must appoint an Indonesian company as the Notification Holder.
3. Step-by-Step BPOM Cosmetic Notification Process
Step 1 — Appoint a Notification Holder
Foreign companies must:
- Establish a local company (PT / PT PMA), or
- Appoint a licensed Indonesian importer or distributor
The Notification Holder is legally responsible for:
- Product compliance
- Label accuracy
- Post-market obligations
Step 2 — Prepare Required Documents
For imported cosmetics, core documents include:
- Certificate of Free Sale (CFS)
- GMP Certificate
- Letter of Authorization (LoA)
- Full ingredient list (INCI format)
- Label design in Bahasa Indonesia
- Product Information File (PIF)
Note: Incomplete documentation is the most common reason for rejection.
Step 3 — Prepare the Product Information File (PIF)
The PIF must be prepared before submission. It contains:
- Administrative company documents
- Complete formula with concentrations
- Safety data
- Product specifications
- Manufacturing information
Note: BPOM may audit the PIF at any time, even after approval.
Step 4 — Register on the Notifkos System
The Notification Holder must register on BPOM’s official portal: notifkos.pom.go.id
- After company verification, BPOM provides login access for submission
- This is a one-time company registration
Step 5 — Submit Product Notification
For each product, the applicant must input:
- Product category
- Manufacturer details
- Packaging information
- Ingredient list
- CFS data (for imports)
After submission:
- Government fee (PNBP) must be paid within 7 working days
- Once paid, BPOM begins evaluation
Step 6 — BPOM Evaluation
Standard evaluation period: 14 working days
Possible outcomes:
| Decision | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Approved | Notification Number issued — valid for 3 years |
| Rejected | Must resubmit — fees are non-refundable |
| Clarification Requested | Applicant must respond within 14 working days |
4. Notification Fees (Government Fees Only)
| Product Origin | Fee (IDR) |
|---|---|
| Non-ASEAN Import | 1,500,000 |
| ASEAN Import | 500,000 |
| Domestic Product | 500,000 |
These are official government fees only. Consultant or service fees are separate and not included.
5. Estimated Timeline
| Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Document Preparation | 2–8 weeks |
| Account Registration | 1–2 weeks |
| BPOM Evaluation | 1–4 months |
| Total Estimated Time | 3–6 months |
Delays typically occur due to:
- Incorrect ingredient naming
- Label not in Bahasa Indonesia
- Incomplete authorization documents
6. Labeling Requirements
Cosmetic labels must include:
- Product name
- Ingredient list (INCI)
- Usage instructions — in Bahasa Indonesia
- Warnings — in Bahasa Indonesia
- Net content
- Manufacturer / importer details
- BPOM Notification Number
- Batch number
- Expiry date
Note: Non-compliant labels may result in import detention.
7. What If My Product Is Not a Cosmetic?
If your product contains therapeutic claims or medical functions, it may fall under a different regulatory pathway:
- Pharmaceutical category — BPOM drug registration
- Health supplement category — BPOM supplement registration
- Medical device registration — under Ministry of Health (Kemenkes)
Note: Correct product classification is essential before submission to avoid rejection and unnecessary delays.
8. Need Assistance with BPOM Cosmetic Notification?
Although the process appears straightforward, regulatory mistakes can result in application rejection, import delays, and financial loss.
At INSIGHTOF Consulting Indonesia, we assist foreign brands and manufacturers with:
- Notification Holder representation
- Document preparation
- Ingredient compliance review
- PIF preparation
- Full BPOM submission handling
Looking for the full regulatory overview?
Read the Complete Cosmetic Registration Guide →Start Your Registration Process Today
If you are planning to register cosmetics, food, supplements, medical devices, or require halal certification, INSIGHTOF Consulting Indonesia is ready to assist you with structured, professional regulatory support.
Contact our team today to discuss your product category and compliance requirements.
