Guide to Residency in Indonesia

Obtaining a residency visa in Indonesia is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Indonesia gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the Types of Residency Permits
  • KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas): Temporary residency permit for foreigners who intend to stay in Indonesia for a certain period.
  • KITAP (Kartu Izin Tinggal Tetap): Permanent residency permit for foreigners who wish to stay in Indonesia indefinitely.
• Meet the Basic Requirements
  • Have a valid passport with at least 18 months remaining before expiration.
  • Obtain a sponsor, which can be an Indonesian citizen or a legal entity in Indonesia.
• Obtain a Limited Stay Visa (VITAS)
  • Apply at the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
  • Fill out the application form and submit the required documents, including your passport, passport photos, and sponsor letter.
  • Pay the visa application fee.
• Apply for a Temporary Residency Permit (KITAS)
  • After arriving in Indonesia, visit the local immigration office (Kantor Imigrasi) with your sponsor.
  • Bring your passport, VITAS, and other required documents, such as a police clearance certificate and a medical certificate.
  • Fill out the KITAS application form and pay the application fee.
  • Website: Immigration Office of the Republic of Indonesia
• Apply for a Tax Number (NPWP)
  • Visit the local tax office (Kantor Pelayanan Pajak) with your passport and KITAS.
  • Fill out the NPWP application form and pay the application fee.
  • Website: Directorate General of Taxes
• Open a Bank Account
  • Visit a local bank with your passport, KITAS, and NPWP.
  • Choose a bank that offers services for foreigners, such as Bank Central Asia (BCA), Bank Mandiri, or Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI).
• Extend Your KITAS (if necessary)
  • Before your KITAS expires, visit the local immigration office with your sponsor.
  • Bring your passport, KITAS, and other required documents, such as your NPWP and bank statements.
  • Fill out the KITAS extension application form and pay the application fee.
• Apply for a Permanent Residency Permit (KITAP)
  • After holding a KITAS for a certain period, you may apply for a KITAP at the local immigration office with your sponsor.
  • Bring your passport, KITAS, and other required documents, such as your NPWP, bank statements, and a letter of recommendation from an Indonesian citizen or legal entity.
  • Fill out the KITAP application form and pay the application fee.

Additional Information

The process of obtaining residency status in Indonesia can be complex and time-consuming. It is recommended that you hire an experienced agent or consult with a legal professional to assist you with the application process. Additionally, be sure to stay up-to-date with the latest immigration policies and regulations, as they are subject to change.

Indonesian immigration law requires that foreigners report to the immigration office periodically for biometric data collection and to update their personal information. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in penalties or deportation.

Foreigners who hold a KITAP are required to apply for an Indonesian electronic ID card (e-KTP) at the local civil registration office (Dinas Kependudukan dan Pencatatan Sipil). The e-KTP serves as a valid ID card and is used for various purposes, such as voting and accessing public services.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Indonesia?

"The process of applying for a visa in Indonesia typically involves submitting a visa application form to an Indonesian embassy or consulate. Other required documents may include passport photographs, payment, as well as a valid passport. Visitors may need to provide evidence of purpose of stay, such as a letter of invitation and proof of sufficient funds. Depending on the purpose of the stay, different types of visa may be available. The process of applying for residency in Indonesia requires the applicant to register a company in Indonesia, or obtain a work permit sponsored by an Indonesian employer. The applicant may also need to obtain a Temporary Stay Permit from an Immigration Office, and apply for an identity card and residency permit from the local Civil Registry Office. Depending on the type of residence permit, additional documents may be required, such as a local police record check and a Health Booklet," commented one member living in Indonesia.