What Is KITAS? Everything You Need to Know
If you’re dreaming of living and working in the stunning islands of Bali, Indonesia, understanding KITAS is essential. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the temporary stay permit, including eligibility, application processes, and common questions that arise about obtaining a KITAS in Indonesia.
What is KITAS?
KITAS, or Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas, is a temporary stay permit that allows foreign nationals to reside in Indonesia for a specific period. Unlike typical tourist visas that only permit a 60-day stay, KITAS offers a more extended duration, making it the perfect choice for those looking to settle for work or leisure.
Who Can Receive KITAS?
Certain groups of people are eligible for a KITAS in Indonesia. Here’s who qualifies:
- Foreign nationals holding a temporary stay visa
- Children born in Indonesia to foreign parents who have a temporary stay permit
- Individuals transitioning from a visitor’s stay permit
- Crew members and experts aboard ships operating in Indonesian waters
- Foreign nationals legally married to Indonesian citizens
- Children resulting from a marriage between a foreign national and an Indonesian citizen
How Long Does the Permit Last?
Temporary stay permits can be issued for varying durations: 30 days, 90 days, 6 months, 1 year, or 2 years. Most of these permits are extendable, except for the 30-day option, which caters to those who do not intend to stay longer. This policy is outlined on the official website of the Directorate General of Immigration.
Types of KITAS
There are different types of KITAS based on the purpose and length of your stay. If you’re planning to reside in Indonesia for extended periods (6 months to 2 years), you might identify with one of these categories:
- Married couples where one partner is a foreign national
- Children born from a legal union of foreign and Indonesian parents
- Indonesian citizens returning from abroad
- Individuals who were formerly Indonesian citizens
- Foreign retirees
- Investors, religious leaders, specialists, and students enrolled in formal education in Indonesia
On the other hand, if you require a temporary stay permit for 30 to 90 days, you might fall under activities like:
- Engaging in professional activities with remuneration
- Filming projects with local authority approval
- Conducting quality control inspections
- Auditing operations at a company branch in Indonesia
- Providing after-sales services
- Installing or repairing equipment
- Managing non-permanent construction projects
- Organizing or participating in sports and cultural events
- Providing medical services
- Foreign nationals on a work probation
Requirements for Applying for Electronic KITAS
As of May 2, 2016, the Directorate General of Immigration has introduced an electronic KITAS application that allows you to apply online via the Pelaporan KITAS website. To apply, you’ll need your passport and visa, along with your home address and the relevant numbers from your documents. Following your application, you will receive an email detailing the date to visit the Immigration Office to complete payment processing, biometric data collection, and interviews. Your KITAS will then be sent to you as a PDF via email.
The fees for application already include costs associated with the permit, the re-entry permit, and administration.
Is e-KITAS Safe from Counterfeiting?
Yes! The e-KITAS is designed with security in mind and features a QR code to prevent counterfeiting, ensuring that your stay in Indonesia is both legitimate and secure.
We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into securing a temporary stay permit (KITAS) in Indonesia. If time is of the essence and you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider reaching out to VisaStation.id. We’re here to assist you every step of the way—feel free to contact us via WhatsApp at0877 01 0000 11.
