Understanding Visas and Stay Permits in Indonesia

Strategic Insights -

As Indonesia becomes increasingly popular with tourists, digital nomads, and expats, clarifying the distinction between visas and stay permits has become essential for foreign visitors. The Indonesian Immigration Office has released new instructions to assist foreigners in understanding the difference between these two essential documents, which can make or break a trip to Indonesia.

Key Takeaways:

  • A visa is permission to enter Indonesia for a specific purpose or period, while a stay permit is permission to stay in Indonesia while pursuing a specific purpose or activity.
  • There are several types of visas, including the Visa on Arrival (VoA), Visit Visa, and Visa Kunjungan (Limited Stay Visa), each with its own requirements and validity period.
  • Stay permits, also known as KITAS, are issued to foreigners who want to stay in Indonesia for a longer period, typically ranging from 6 months to 1 year or more.
  • The Indonesian Immigration Office has removed visa requirements for citizens of certain countries, allowing them to enter and stay in Indonesia without a visa for a limited period.
  • The eVisa on Arrival is a tourist-friendly option that allows travelers to enter Indonesia without visiting an embassy or consulate, but requires an online application and valid credit card.
  • Visitors can also opt for visa on arrival at Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport or eVisa on Arrival online through the authorized Indonesian Immigration website.

Statistics:

  • The Indonesian Immigration Office has issued new instructions to clarify the difference between visas and stay permits for foreign visitors.
  • There are several types of visas, including the Visa on Arrival (VoA), Visit Visa, and Visa Kunjungan (Limited Stay Visa).
  • Stay permits, also known as KITAS, are issued to foreigners who want to stay in Indonesia for a longer period.
  • The Indonesian Immigration Office has waived visa requirements for citizens of certain countries, including Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Cambodia, Singapore, Myanmar, Laos, Timor-Leste, Suriname, Colombia, Hong Kong, Turkey, and Brazil.
  • The eVisa on Arrival is available for online application prior to visiting Indonesia, with a fee of IDR 500,000 (approximately $35 USD).
  • The eVisa on Arrival is valid for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days via the Hybrid Application System.