How to get KITAS in Indonesia?

The process on how to get KITAS in Indonesia depends on the type of KITAS someone applies for. Obtaining a KITAS visa can be quite a complex process, although the benefits of holding a temporary stay permit make it worthwhile. KITAS holders can stay in Indonesian for up to two years without having to leave the country or renew their visa. Do you want to get a KITAS? This article provides step-by-step guidance on Indonesia’s KITAS, from the requirements and necessary documents to the application process and involved costs.

What is KITAS in Indonesia?

KITAS means Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas and is a temporary residence permit that allows foreigners to stay in Indonesia for one or two years. Holders of Indonesia’s KITAS visa don’t have to leave Indonesia or renew their visa, which saves them a lot of time, money, and effort. There are several types of KITAS visas available. The KITAS type someone needs depends on the stay’s purpose, and the kind of KITAS sponsor.

Another Indonesian visa often mentioned with KITAS is KITAP, which refers to a permanent stay permit. Both visas are residence permits that allow foreigners to stay in Indonesia. However, the main difference between KITAS and KITAP is the duration of the stay; with KITAP, a foreigner can stay in Indonesia for five years, while KITAS allows a foreigner to stay for a maximum of two years. KITAS holders can apply for a visa extension once their KITAS has expired. After living in Indonesia for five consecutive years with KITAS, a foreigner is allowed to apply for KITAP.

Types of KITAS in Indonesia

Before explaining how to get KITAS in Indonesia, knowing which KITAS type to apply for is important. Various kinds of KITAS are available, each with specific purposes and eligibility criteria. Here are some common types of KITAS:

1. Working KITAS
2. Investor KITAS
3. Family KITAS
4. Second Home KITAS (formerly known as Retirement KITAS)
5. Student KITAS

Working KITAS

Working KITAS is granted to foreigners staying in Indonesia for employment within an Indonesian company. In that case, the company is the KITAS sponsor. Foreign-owned companies (PT PMAs) can sponsor foreign and business workers to obtain a Working Visa KITAS in Indonesia. A Working KITAS duration depends on the employment contract, mostly one or two years. Besides a KITAS visa, the foreigner must also obtain a work permit (IMTA) to be allowed to work in Indonesia.

Investor KITAS

The Investor KITAS is a residence permit for foreign investors who want to establish or invest in business activities in Indonesia. Most foreigners who invest in Indonesian real estate through a PT PMA can reside in Indonesia with an Investor KITAS. This type of visa is only issued to directors and commissioners of a PT PMA.

Family KITAS

Indonesia’s Family KITAS is issued to family members of Indonesian citizens, including their spouses and children. This is the reason this type of visa is also called ‘Spouse KITAS’. This visa grants the privilege to stay in Indonesia but prohibits the holder from working. A foreigner living in Indonesia with a Working KITAS can sponsor their spouse or children with a Family KITAS.

Second Home KITAS

The Second Home KITAS replaced the Retirement KITAS in May 2022. The most essential requirement for a Second Home KITAS is proof of funds. Foreigners must show evidence of holding a minimum of IDR 270 million ($17,010) in an Indonesian bank account. Investing in luxury real estate is another option to get the Second Home KITAS. The property must be bought with a Hak Pakai (HP) title. It must have a minimum value of IDR 5 billion ($315,000) in Bali or IDR 2 billion ($126,000) in all other places in Indonesia.

Student KITAS

International students can pursue their studies in Indonesia and reside here by getting a Student KITAS. The initial KITAS requirements include a certificate of admission, academic transcripts, and an entry visa (VITAS) from the Indonesian Embassy in the country of origin. It’s important to note that working in Indonesia with a Student KITAS is not allowed, so working part-time besides studying is illegal.

KITAS requirements

Foreigners must meet all the KITAS requirements before obtaining Indonesia’s much-wanted residency visa. The requirements are different for each type of KITAS. However, the following documents are required for all types:

• Valid passport
• Proof of financial solvency
• Two passport-size colored pictures

Working KITAS requirements:

• Resume with the company’s stamp and director’s signature
• Foreign Worker Employment Plan (RPTKA)
• University certificate or educational degree
• Certificate of work experience
• Proof of insurance policy issued by an Indonesian insurance company
• Tax Identification Number (NPWP)

Investor KITAS requirements:

• PT PMA registration documents
• Evidence of living accommodation in Indonesia
• Proof of insurance policy issued by an Indonesian insurance company
• Tax Identification Number (NPWP)

Family KITAS requirements:

• ID Card (KTP) and Family Card (Kartu Keluarga) of the Indonesian spouse
• Birth Certificate of the Indonesian spouse
• The bank statement of the Indonesian spouse
• Birth certificate of dependent children

Second Home KITAS requirements:

• Proof of funds of at least IDR 2 billion ($126,000) in an Indonesian bank account or proof of ownership of luxury real estate in Indonesia
• Evidence of living accommodation in Indonesia
• Statement of intention not to work in Indonesia
• Curriculum vitae (CV)

Student KITAS requirements:

• Letter of acceptance from the educational institution
• Academic reports
• Proof of financial responsibility from parents, legal guardians, or sponsors

Immigration officials may request additional requirements from time to time.

How to get KITAS in Indonesia?

Foreigners can get KITAS by applying for KITAS online or by working with a legal agent. The first step of getting KITAS is applying for an entry visa (VITAS) at the Indonesian Embassy in the applicant’s country of residence. After the VITAS is approved, the Indonesian government issues a VITAS authorization number needed to apply for KITAS online. It’s important to have all required documents ready before starting the online KITAS application process.

Once your KITAS application is issued, you receive a KITAS card with a personal KITAS number (this is not the same as a KTP number). When entering Indonesia, it’s important to have your KITAS card with you. You need the KITAS card and number for several other public services, such as opening a bank account.

With regulations occasionally changing, obtaining a KITAS can be pretty stressful. Do you want to apply for KITAS in Indonesia? Our expert team will ensure you don’t have to navigate the complexities alone, saving you time, money, and energy. Kindly drop your details below or email us at [email protected]. Let’s start working on a temporary residency permit in Indonesia today!

How long does it take to get KITAS in Indonesia?

Getting a KITAS visa in Indonesia takes six to ten weeks. A spouse-sponsored KITAS is typically processed within a month, whereas a Second Home Visa KITAS takes about ten business days from the application’s submission. Working with a visa agency or legal agent might speed up the KITAS process.

How to renew KITAS in Indonesia?

Applying for a KITAS renewal can be done at the appropriate Immigration Office. This should be done before the KITAS expires to avoid problems with the residency permit. The KITAS renewal process usually takes between two and five weeks. The KITAS renewal fees differ depending on the KITAS type and length of stay. In general, a KITAS renewal can cost between IDR 7 million ($441) and IDR 20 million ($1,260).

How much is a KITAS in Indonesia?

The KITAS price varies depending on the location, visa type, and stay length. Generally, the KITAS price lies between IDR 10 million ($630) and IDR 20 million ($1,260). Besides the general KITAS costs, there may be additional costs, such as legal fees or taxes.

How to get KITAS in Bali?

Foreigners can get a KITAS in Bali by applying online or using an agent. First, apply for a VITAS at the Indonesian Embassy in the country of origin. Once approved, get a VITAS authorization number to apply for KITAS online. Preparing all required documents before applying for KITAS in Bali is important. The KITAS price in Bali is the same as elsewhere in Indonesia.

Do you want to apply for KITAS in Bali? Our expert team will ensure you don’t have to navigate the complexities alone. Please email us at [email protected] for further information and help.

KITAS pros and cons

There are several benefits and drawbacks of Indonesia’s KITAS visa. Ensure to be aware of those before you start your KITAS application in Indonesia.

KITAS advantages

The most benefits of KITAS are:

• KITAS holders can reside in Indonesia for a maximum of two years without leaving the country
• KITAS holders can use public services, such as healthcare, education, and social security
• Holding a KITAS makes moving to Indonesia easier
• It’s possible to apply for KITAP after having KITAS for five consecutive years
• Holders of KITAS can buy Hak Pakai property in Indonesia
• KITAS holders can open a local bank account in Indonesia

KITAS disadvantages

However, KITAS also has a few drawbacks or disadvantages:

• The procedure of obtaining KITAS can be complex if done without a visa expert
• Obtaining KITAS can be expensive
• KITAS needs to be renewed every 12 or 24 months

Get your KITAS in Indonesia with Own Property Abroad

Are you looking to get KITAS in Indonesia? Own Property Abroad assists you and ensures a seamless and hassle-free process in obtaining your permanent residency permit.

With our expert team, you won’t have to navigate the complexities alone. For further information on how we can assist you, kindly drop your details below or email us at [email protected]. Let’s start working on a temporary residency permit in Indonesia today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)