If you’re planning to visit Indonesia for business purposes, you’ll need to apply for an Indonesian business visa. Indonesia offers both single-entry and multiple-entry business visas, catering to various needs of foreign nationals visiting for meetings, conferences, and business negotiations. However, it’s important to note that this visa does not permit employment with an Indonesian company.

For those looking to undertake contracted work or get paid in Indonesia, you’ll need to apply for a work permit instead of a business visa.

• Social activities
• Tourism-related activities
• Government duties
• Short-term training or education
• Foreign marketing collaboration, including advice, counseling, and training
• Media reporting
• Production of non-commercial films
• Business negotiations
• Participation in seminars, conferences, or lectures
• Attendance at international fairs and exhibitions
• Auditing, inspection, or manufacturing quality control of subsidiaries for up to one month
• Purchase of products

Typically, a business visa allows you to stay in Indonesia for up to 60 days, which can be extended for another six months. If you’re on a single-entry business visa, it’s crucial to apply for an extension before it expires. Thanks to recent policy changes since the Covid-19 pandemic, you can handle this with an onshore application without the need to leave the country.

On the flip side, a multiple-entry business visa comes with the flexibility of no cap on the total number of entries, allowing for seamless travel throughout the year.

When applying for an Indonesian business visa, ensure you have the following documents ready:

1. Completed application form for an Indonesian visa.
2. Valid passport with at least six months remaining from your date of entry in Indonesia.
3. A photocopy of your passport.
4. Passport-size photo with the following specifications:
   • Dimensions: 3cm x 4cm or 4cm x 6cm
   • White background
   • Taken within the last three months
   • The entire face must be visible
   • No headgear, unless it is for religious reasons
5. Copy of your round-trip or onward travel ticket.
6. A cover letter from the company, organization, or institution sponsoring your trip, including their full address and contact information, and the number of days and entries being requested.
7. An invitation letter from the company, organization, or institution you will be visiting, detailing their contact information, the duration of stay, and whether they will cover your accommodation and maintenance costs.
8. Proof of payment for the visa fee.
9. If requesting a multiple-entry visa, you must also have a visa authorization letter from the Directorate General of Immigration, obtained by your sponsor in Indonesia.
10. A copy of your valid residence permit/visa, if you are not a citizen of the country you are residing in.

Here are the applicable fees for Indonesian visas:

• Visa on arrival: IDR 500,000
• Single-entry visa: USD 50
• Multiple-entry visa: USD 110

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process for your Indonesian business visa:

• Contact the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate to inquire about any specific restrictions or appointment requirements, as some may accept applications by mail.
• Gather all the necessary documents for your business visa application.
• Pay the required visa fee.
• Submit your documents in person or via mail to the relevant Embassy or Consulate.
• Wait for your application to be processed.

If you’re applying for a business visa with multiple entries, you will need a sponsor to apply for a Letter of Visa Authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Jakarta.

Before your current visa expires, make sure to extend your business visa at the Indonesian Immigration Office.

The extension fee will match the original visa fee, allowing you to request extensions of 30-60 days up to four times.

If you hold a multiple-entry visa, you won’t need to apply for extensions. However, if you enter Indonesia without a visa and plan to stay beyond the 30-day allowance, be prepared to pay approximately USD 70 for each day you overstay.

Bear in mind that business visas are for specific activities; if you’re looking to perform tasks outside those permitted by the visa, consider applying for a work permit instead.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What types of business visas does Indonesia offer?

Indonesia offers both single-entry and multiple-entry business visas, allowing travelers to conduct a range of business-related activities within the country.

2. Can I work in Indonesia with a business visa?

No, a business visa does not permit employment. If you plan to work in Indonesia, you must apply for a work permit.

3. How long can I stay in Indonesia on a business visa?

A business visa typically allows a stay of up to 60 days, with the possibility of extending for another six months.

4. What documents are required for an Indonesian business visa?

You will need a completed application form, a valid passport, a passport-size photo, a round-trip ticket, and various letters from sponsoring organizations, among others.

5. What happens if I overstay my business visa?

If you overstay your business visa, you will incur a fee of about USD 70 for each day you exceed your allowed stay.