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.

• Research Visa Types
  • Visit the official website of the Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration at https://www.imigrasi.go.id/en/ to understand different types of visas and residency permits available.
  • Identify which visa category fits your purpose of stay, such as work (KITAS/KITAP), retirement, family reunification, or others.
• Obtain a Sponsor
  • Find a local sponsor, which could be an employer, a spouse, or a family member who is an Indonesian citizen or a company registered in Indonesia.
  • Ensure the sponsor is willing to provide necessary documents such as a sponsorship letter and company documents if applicable.
• Prepare Required Documents
  • Gather personal documents such as passport with minimum 18 months validity for KITAS or 30 months for KITAP, CV, and educational certificates.
  • Obtain additional documents from your sponsor, such as a sponsorship letter, company registration (for work visa), or family documents (for family visa).
• Apply for a Visa
  • Complete the visa application form available on the Indonesian Immigration website or through the Indonesian Embassy/Consulate in your home country.
  • Submit the application form along with the required documents to the Indonesian Embassy/Consulate or online if available.
• Enter Indonesia
  • Once your visa is approved, travel to Indonesia and ensure you have all the necessary documents for immigration clearance.
• Apply for a Stay Permit (KITAS/KITAP)
  • Within 30 days of arrival, visit the local immigration office to convert your visa into a stay permit (KITAS for temporary residency or KITAP for permanent residency).
  • Complete the application form and submit it along with your passport, visa, and other required documents.
• Apply for a Tax Number (NPWP)
  • Visit the official website of the Indonesian Tax Office at http://www.pajak.go.id/en to understand the process of obtaining a Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP).
  • Prepare necessary documents such as your KITAS/KITAP, passport, and a letter from your sponsor or employer.
  • Visit the local tax office to submit your application and documents.
• Report to the Local Population Office
  • After obtaining your KITAS/KITAP and NPWP, report to the local population office (Kelurahan/Desa) to register your residency.
  • Bring your KITAS/KITAP, NPWP, and proof of local address to complete the registration.
• Obtain a Local ID Card (KTP)
  • Apply for a local ID card (KTP) at the local population office where you registered your residency.
  • Provide your KITAS/KITAP, NPWP, and proof of address to process your KTP application.
• Regularly Check Visa and Permit Expiry Dates
  • Keep track of the expiry dates of your KITAS/KITAP and ensure to apply for extensions or renewals in a timely manner.
  • Visit the immigration office or consult with your sponsor for the renewal process.

Please note that the process for obtaining residency in Indonesia can be complex and may change over time. It is advisable to consult with the Indonesian Embassy or a professional visa consultant for the most current information and assistance with the application process.

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.