KITAS Permit Indonesia – Application and Requirements in 2021 – that will be the topic of today’s article.
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Introduction
Just like other countries, an expat will have to obtain a permit from an Indonesian authority before he/she can legally enter the country. This permit is commonly referred to as the KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas). It’s a Limited Stay Permit Card that’s been provided to expats in the country since inception.
This type of stay permit is granted to a foreigner who has a Temporary Stay Permit. It has been regulated in the Immigration Law article 31 of 119, entry permits, and immigration permits in Indonesia. Now, the question is; who can get a limited stay permit in Indonesia? Well, it’s not given to anyone!
However, some of the people that can apply for this kind of visa include; limited stay visa holder, limited visa holder, the KITAS holder’s child who was born in Indonesian territory, those who are legally married to Indonesian citizens, children of foreigners who have been legally married to one Indonesian citizen.
If you’ve been surfing the internet to get the right information about relocating or visiting Indonesia, look no further. Many people’d mislead you about this visa, but here, we got the right information to help you through. Would you love to know what we’ve unleashed for you today about KITAS?
If that sounds like a yes, you’ve landed on the best platform. In this article, we will walk you through the types of visas in Indonesia. Not only that, but you’ll also understand the benefits of relocating or visiting the country. In addition to this, we also answer some of the most common questions about stay permits in Indonesia.
Types of Visa Available for Expats in Indonesia
If you want to live or work in Indonesia, it’s no doubt that you’ll need something called a KITAS. On the other hand, it’s crucial to know the types of visas available for expats in the country. This will help you pick the ones that meet your requirements. More so, there are many things to consider before applying.
Additionally, there are different types of KITAS based on the reason why you want to live in the country. The most common types of this visa include work visa KITAS, Family visa KITAS, Retirement visa KITAS, and student visa KITAS. In no time, let’s quickly walk you through these visa types one after the other.
● Work Visa KITAS Indonesia – The work visa KITAS is issued to foreign nationals who want to work for an Indonesian company or organization for a period of time. Not only that, but foreigners holding work visa should know that their employer has to obtain a work permit (IMTA) for them from the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower. Afterward, you’ll then receive a KITAS based on the duration of your work contract.
● Family Visa KITAS Indonesia – The family visa is issued to the dependent family members (under 18 years of age) of the main KITAS holders. This means, if your spouse has a work KITAS, then they can sponsor your KITAS application. Besides, it is also issued to the foreign spouses of Indonesian citizens.
● Retirement KITAS Indonesia – The retirement KITAS Indonesia is issued to foreign nationals over the age of 55 and would love to retire in the country. Meanwhile, to get this kind of visa, expat would have to be able to present proof that he/she has sufficient funds to sustain him/herself during his stay without working as they’re not allowed to take up employment.
● Student Visa KITAS – The student visa KITAS is issued to international students who want to pursue their studies in an Indonesian educational institution. This kind of visa is valid for a year and has to be renewed for the duration of your studies. And it does not allow the holder to work.
Documents Required for a KITAS in Indonesia
While you’re applying for this kind of visa, be aware that there are many documents required depending on the types of Indonesian visa you need. However, we have compiled the application and document required to guide you through the process. Without further ado, below are the documents required.
- Expats valid passport and a coloured copy of your passport
- Proof of financial solvency and two passport-size coloured pictures
- If you’re applying for the work KITAS, you may need to present a coloured copy of your CV, and it must have the company’s stamp and a signature by a company director over the stamp
- If you’re applying for the student KITAS, you may need to submit a copy of the letter of acceptance from the educational institution and also present your academic reports
- Any other documents that may be requested are further subjected to the country’s Immigration Department
Online Application for KITAS
To apply for a KITAS online, you need to visit their official website, the official website of the Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration. Aside from this fact, you still have to go to the Immigration Offices after you might have submitted your online KITAS application. Afterward, you will need a Police Report Letter (STM) from the local police department and register with the local municipality’s population office, where you’ll receive your Certificate of Registration for Temporary Resident (SKPPS).
Furthermore, the processing time tends to be longer due, and this is because of the amount of paperwork and the different application processes, such as when you’re applying for the work permit. Most times, it usually takes six weeks to ten weeks, but a spouse-sponsored KITAS, on the other hands, is usually processed within a month, while the retirement KITAS takes about ten business days from the submission of the application.
Again, the Indonesian KITAS is issued for a minimum of three months validity (for temporary work), which could be up to two years. Moreover, the duration of your KITAS usually depends on the nature of your work as well as your work contract in the country. We’re sure you’re getting what a KITAS visa entails.
Why You Need to Visit Indonesia in 2021
There are many reasons to travel to Indonesia in today’s twenty-first century. Since it’s a country with over 17,000 islands, 8,000 of which are inhabited, and Indonesia is like 100 countries in one. Well, this land of great adventure has a lot to offer. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the reasons to travel.
Home to Komodo Dragons
Have you ever seen a Komodo Dragons before? If that sounds like a NO, Indonesia should be on your bucket list this year. And this is because; it’s home to Komodo National Park, named after its celebrity residents, the Komodo dragon. In other news, this is the largest and living lizard in the world, and Indonesia is the only place they can be found living in the wild on the four islands that make up Komodo National Park.
Excellent Food and Coffee
Another benefit of living in this country is the excellent cuisines and delicious meals. As an expat, you can literally eat for days in the country and always be trying something new. Some of the popular Indonesian foods are satay, nasi goring, vegetables, sambal sauce, and many others, to mention a few.
Home to Ultimate Wilderness
Several people have termed Indonesia as the gateway to the ultimate wilderness. In fact, you can cross overland to the bordering country, but there are plenty of things to do and explore on the Indonesian side as well. Also, New Guinea is home to native tribes that are infamous for their historical warfare. Wildlife viewing and trekking are a must in this exotic destination, preferably with a knowledgeable local guide.
Home to World Largest Flower
Have you ever seen a flower weighing over 10 kilograms before? Of course, that’d sound like a NO! The Rafflesia Arnoldii belongs to a parasitic plant that feeds on its host’s nutrients. Not only that, but it’s also called the corpse flower due to its characteristic foul odor, which draws interested crowds looking to tick a box next to seeing the world’s largest flower.
World-Class Diving and Mountain of Java
There’s nowhere in the world that offers better diving than the Coral Triangle, an area of the Pacific Ocean that includes the water around Indonesia, Solomon Island, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, and many others. So, if you’ve been craving for a world-class diving experience, this is the right place.
On the flip side, Java is home to the world’s biggest Buddhist temple, Borobudur, with its intricate lattice stupas set among the paddy field. This place is often crowded, but you can consider a lesser known site such as Kalasan, Pawon, which retains an air of contemplation and peace.
Extremely Linguistic Diverse
While Indonesia’s official language is Bahasa Indonesia, there are more than 300 spoken native languages and even more dialects across the nation. Not only that, but the province of Papua alone has around 270 dialects. With that being said, you should understand that language might not be a barrier while relocating or visiting the country.
Home to Largest archipelago in the World
With the five major islands and thousands of smaller islands situated between the islands Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, Indonesia is known to be the largest archipelago in the world. As history disclosed, there are over 17500 islands that comprise Indonesia, but research disclosed that only 6000 of these islands are inhabited.
Becoming a Permanent Resident in Indonesia
The number of foreign nationals coming to the country has been growing compellingly. With that being said, you should know that there are many reasons why expats would love to make Indonesia their new home. To obtain a permanent residency to live and work legally in this country, there are criteria and documents you’ll need to have. So, what do you think is a permanent resident in Indonesia?
Of course, it’s quite different from the KITAS permit in the country. This is because; a lawful Indonesian permanent resident is someone who has the legal right to work and live in the country without a limited time period. This means, anytime a permanent resident travels in and out of the country, he/she will need to present his passport and the Indonesian permanent resident card for identification.
Benefits of Being a Permanent Resident
For expats who love to start the relocation process permanently to the country or work for a company in Indonesia, having a permanent residency permit is one of the best options. Also, permanent residency brings many other benefits for foreigners acquiring a new status. Below are some of the benefits.
- Expats can get around all over the country without disturbance from the third party
- You can easily become an investor, business owner, or a company director
- Expat will have a legal tax identification number and would be able to apply for loans
- You can jointly own a property with your Indonesian spouse anywhere in the country
- Foreigners can obtain a five-year Indonesian identity card
- You can take in civic forums, own a car, and easily open a bank account
- You can get around to any place or tourist attraction at a lower price
- You’ll be given the freedom to enter and exit Indonesia with a two-year multiple-entry permit
Different Types of Residency in the Country
It’s no doubt that the first thing to do when considering moving to Indonesia is to determine what type of visa you need to apply for. There are few different types of visas, and since the country’s visa policy is often changing, you must remain up-to-date with the latest visa requirement. Expatriates can find two types of residency permits in Indonesia, and they include the following.
- Temporary Residency Permit (ITAS/KITAS) – Two-year validity, renewable for three times, the approximately four-month application process
- Permanent Residency Permit (ITAP/KITAP) – Prerequisite; an ITAS/KITAS holder for at least five years continuously, renewable for five times
Eligibility to Become a Permanent Resident
To obtain the permanent resident card in Indonesia, there is a certain process you’ll need to go through. Without further ado, below are the requirements to be eligible.
- Expat must have a sponsorship letter from a local company (in/outside the country)
- You must have a recommendation from the Directorate General of Immigration
- Foreigners will need to submit required documents along with the letter and recommendation to obtain a KITAS or VITAS (Limited Stay Permit), depending on your circumstances, to the Indonesian Embassy
- Expats can convert the KITAS to KITAP and become a permanent residents in Indonesia after holding the KITAS/ITAS for more than five years consecutively
Cons of Living in Indonesia (2021)
The beautiful archipelago of Indonesia is a combination of rich culture, dangerous volcanoes, amazing beaches, hundred of languages, vibrant wildlife, and great traditions. While many foreigners would love to shift to Indonesia to live the rest of their lives, you need to be aware of some challenges. They include the following.
Bribery and Corruption
In Indonesia, it may be very difficult for you to start a business without paying a corrupt government official. This has become a very casual norm, and despite the government trials to curb corruption, it can be seen everywhere, but you can hope for the best in the future.
Payment on Imported Products
If you’re planning to import products from other countries, be aware that you’re going to pay multiplied rates if you’re craving for something from your initial country of residence. On the flip side, it’s not advisable to do this, but the best option is to find friends who are visiting Indonesia from your country.
Traffic in Indonesia
Although you should expect a bit of traffic in whatever destination you choose to relocate to but Indonesia is quite on the high. With a huge population and narrow roads, expats will likely experience constant traffic on the road. Meanwhile, the government is putting all its efforts into widening the roads, and you may see good roads and free flow of traffic in the near future.
Poverty and Social Inequalities
Poverty and the disparity between the rich and poor is something that expat could find difficult in the country. Nothing can prepare you for this, especially if you’re coming from a more developed and richer nation. Moreover, it’s uncommon to see small children with babies tied to their fronts, ducking and diving through the heavy, polluted traffic in many Indonesian cities.
Poor Sanitation in Indonesia
If you’re thinking that it’s only India that has the worse sanitation in the world, you’re wrong; Indonesia is second to none. Stomach bugs are a part of life in Indonesia and are easily contacted by expats. In fact, fresh juices are sold widely from carts on the roadside in the country; and they’re often diluted with water of dubious origin which can later cause serious illness.
Top 5 Travel Tips to Indonesia
While Indonesia remains one of the most spectacular countries in Southeast Asia and many travelers, it is the highlight of a visit to the region. With that being said, like any other country, it pays to know some travel tips before relocating to the country. Without further ado, below are the travel tips to the country.
Know the Right Time
Since Indonesia is located across the equator, there’s going to be a monsoonal climate, and it could split the seasons into wet and dry. Besides, it’s hot all year round unless you’re planning to visit areas of high altitudes, such as trekking up volcanoes or mountains. In summary, ensure you know the right time before traveling or before jumping on a flight.
Create a Bucket List
Compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, Indonesia remains one of the cheapest places to visit. Even for the fact that the country is a cheap place to live, you need to prepare your budget in advance regarding the place you choose to reside.
Understand the Visa Packages
Indonesia is known to have different types of visas, as mentioned above. And in fact, they have street immigration rules which are always challenging for new ex-pats. To know more about the kind of visa suitable for your stay in Indonesia, refer to our guide above to understand better.
Plan Ahead For Local Festivals
Indonesia officially recognizes six religions which are Islam, Hinduism, Catholicism, Protestantism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Confucianism. They all have national holidays, and it could affect expats traveling during this period. Therefore, it’s best to check the dates of the local festival in advance.
Plan for Good Insurance
The healthcare facilities in Indonesia are not of a high standard. More so, road accidents are common, as well as medical issues related to tropical diseases like dengue fever. Again, if you get seriously ill in the country, you’ll need to travel to neighboring Singapore or Thailand for treatment. So, it’s better to plan for good healthcare insurance to cover your medical bills in Indonesia.
Frequently Asked Questions about KITAS Permit
How many days can I stay in Indonesia?
Depending on your visa type, you can stay in the country for as long as your visa is described. However, for foreigners planning to stay in Indonesia for longer than 30 days, you can obtain the tourist visa before your arrival from an Indonesian consulate abroad, and this is valid for 60 days.
Is a KITAS visa expensive to get?
After you have gone through the meaning and the requirements needed to obtain a KITAS visa, always know that the cost of the package is nothing less than IDR 8.000. On the other hand, foreigners who are legally married to Indonesian citizens are eligible to get the KITAS sponsored by an Indonesian spouse.
What is the difference between KITAS and KITAP?
The KITAS is a limited stay permit card in Indonesia, and it is given to foreigners to work or stay in the country, which is limited to six months. On the other hand, the KITAP is a permanent residence card given to foreigners who will stay in Indonesia for a long time.
Conclusion
If you want to live or work in Indonesia, understanding the concept of KITAS and KITAP is essential. With the advent of coronavirus, the government has been placing strict restrictions on some countries and denies them entry. However, to check whether you qualify for this package, refer to the guide above and read carefully.
