Scope & Context

This advisory explains the main immigration pathways available to foreign nationals entering or residing in Indonesia. It distinguishes short-term entry permits, residence-based visas, and long-term stay options tied to investment, employment, family status, and retirement. It highlights eligibility criteria, visa category numbers, and key characteristics.

Visa Exemption & Visa on Arrival (VoA – B1 / B2)

Visa exemptions and Visa on Arrival are available to eligible nationalities for tourism and limited business activities such as meetings or seminars.

B1 Visa Exemption provides free entry for designated nationalities.
B2 Visa on Arrival (VoA) applies to tourism and limited business entry.
Both are valid for 30 days with one 30-day extension and do not permit employment or any paid activities.

Visit Visas (Single-Entry & Multiple-Entry – B211A / D1 / D2)

Visit visas include B211A Single-Entry Visit Visa, which may be issued for tourism, business meetings, social visits, journalism, or events, and D1/D2 Multiple-Entry Visit Visas, typically valid for one year with repeated entry allowed. These visas may allow non-paid business activities such as training or meetings, but do not authorize any form of paid work or employment in Indonesia.

Working KITAS (C312)

The Working KITAS is issued to foreign nationals employed in Indonesia. Sponsorship must be provided by an employer holding valid manpower approval (RPTKA). This visa authorizes lawful employment and residence, generally for 1–2 years, and is renewable.

Investor KITAS (C313 / C314)

The Investor KITAS is available to shareholders of an Indonesian PT holding qualifying paid-up capital.
C313 Investor KITAS is valid for one year.
C314 Investor KITAS is valid for two years.
Directors and commissioners who meet shareholding thresholds may receive an exemption from a separate work permit.

Family/Dependent KITAS (C317)

The Family KITAS provides residence rights for spouses and children of KITAS or KITAP holders. It does not permit employment, and dependents must obtain separate sponsorship and authorization if they wish to work legally in Indonesia.

Retirement KITAS (C319)

The Retirement KITAS is available to foreign nationals aged 55 years and above and requires sponsorship through an approved retirement/tourism organization, along with insurance and accommodation. Holders are not allowed to work under this visa category.

Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP)

A KITAP provides long-term residency following a qualifying period under a valid KITAS. It may be available to foreign investors, spouses of Indonesian citizens, long-term expatriate employees, and certain religious or non-profit workers. KITAP is typically valid for five years, renewable, and grants long-term residence rights.

Conclusion

Indonesia offers a broad immigration framework for tourism, business, investment, employment, family reunification, and retirement. Visa selection should align with the individual’s purpose of stay, shareholding structure, and long-term residency objectives. Appropriate classification and adherence to immigration requirements support lawful residence and reduce compliance risk.