Indonesia has overhauled its immigration framework, replacing the old C-series permit codes with a purpose-based E-series classification and linking the system to the Online Single Submission (OSS) platform. The result is a clearer, more digital process for foreign nationals. Anyone planning an extended stay, a job or an investment in Indonesia needs to understand how the current visa and KITAS rules work.
Indonesia divides its visas into two groups: visit visas for short trips and temporary stay visas – the E-series – for longer residence. The old C-series codes, including those for employment, investors, family reunification and retirees, have been retired. The restructuring was designed to simplify the system, improve compliance tracking and integrate immigration with other government services. Applicants now choose from a clearer set of purpose-based categories.
Travellers planning a short visit have several options depending on nationality and the purpose of the trip:
For most tourists the e-VOA is the easiest option, while the longer visit visa suits those planning several months on the island.
For longer residence, the KITAS is Indonesia's main temporary stay permit. Each category is built around a specific purpose. The key types are:
The Work KITAS is the most common permit for foreign employees. Before a company can sponsor a foreign worker, it must have its Foreign Manpower Utilisation Plan (RPTKA) approved. The plan confirms the position, the need for foreign expertise, the length of employment and compliance with labour rules.
RPTKA approval is a mandatory first step before the company can apply for the employee's limited stay visa (VITAS), which is converted into a KITAS once the employee arrives. Work KITAS are usually issued for six months to two years and can be renewed.
The Investor KITAS is for foreign shareholders who want to live in Indonesia and oversee their investment. Applicants must be registered shareholders in a PT PMA, be sponsored by that company and hold a valid passport. The permit usually gives a one- to two-year stay, multiple entries, the ability to open a local bank account and the right to sponsor dependants.
After three to five years in this status, it can lead to permanent residence (KITAP). The Investor KITAS does not, however, give the right to work in an operational role: active management or salaried positions require authorisation through the company's RPTKA.
The E33G was introduced for the growing number of digital nomads and remote workers. Applicants must show an annual income of at least 60,000 USD, a contract with an employer outside Indonesia and a bank balance of at least 2,000 USD. The permit is valid for one year, and the standard government fee is 7 million rupiah – roughly 430 USD.
This category is for foreigners who want to live in Indonesia for five or ten years without a local employer or sponsor. Applicants must show funds of at least 2 billion rupiah – around 130,000 USD – typically held in an Indonesian state bank. The visa is aimed at retirees, investors and anyone who wants to settle in the country without working locally.
The Golden Visa gives five or ten years of residence in return for a qualifying investment. Individuals can qualify by investing from around 5 billion rupiah – roughly 300,000 USD – in approved assets such as government bonds or company shares. Companies can apply by establishing a business in Indonesia.
Unlike a standard Work KITAS, which is tied to one employer, the Golden Visa lets the holder run several commercial projects at once.
Getting a KITAS involves several steps. The fastest route is to obtain a limited stay visa (VITAS) first. After arrival, the VITAS must be converted into a KITAS within 30 days.
The general requirements are:
After holding a KITAS for a number of consecutive years – usually three to five, depending on the category – foreign nationals can apply for a KITAP, Indonesia's permanent stay permit. It is valid for five years.
To qualify, applicants generally need:
Indonesia's visa and KITAS system now offers a route for most purposes – work, investment, remote work, retirement or long-term residence. The move to the E-series has made the process more transparent, but choosing the right category and meeting its specific conditions is still what determines whether the stay goes smoothly.
If a longer stay in Bali is part of your plan, DDA Real Estate can help you find a home that fits both your residence status and the way you intend to live on the island.
