Bali is more than a dream destination — it’s a thriving ecosystem for entrepreneurs, professionals, and retirees seeking a legal way to live and work in Indonesia.
To make that possible, you need a KITAS — Indonesia’s Limited Stay Permit that grants foreigners long-term residency and, in many cases, the right to work or invest.
This guide explains everything about KITAS Bali in 2025 — types, benefits, costs, and legal details — so you can live your island life confidently and sustainably.
KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) translates to Limited Stay Permit Card.
It’s issued by Indonesian Immigration for foreigners staying longer than 60–180 days.
KITAS gives you legal rights to:
After several renewals, KITAS holders can upgrade to KITAP — a 5-year permanent residence permit.
| KITAS Type | Duration | Purpose | Sponsored By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Investor KITAS | 1–2 years | Business owners / company shareholders | Your PT PMA |
| Working KITAS | 6–12 months | Employees of Indonesian companies | Employer |
| Family KITAS | 1–2 years | Spouses & dependents | Partner / parent |
| Retirement KITAS | 1 year | Retirees aged 55+ | Licensed agency |
| Student KITAS | Varies | Study or research | School or university |
| Profile | Recommended KITAS | Key Advantage | Work Permitted? | Tax Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entrepreneur / Investor | Investor KITAS + PT PMA | Full business & management rights | Yes | Resident (if 183+ days) |
| Employee | Working KITAS | Legal employment with company | Yes | Local tax |
| Retiree | Retirement KITAS | Long-term residence without work | No | Non-resident |
| Family Member | Family KITAS | Dependents only | No | N/A |
This quick table gives clarity — ideal for featured snippets and fast readers.
The Investor KITAS is designed for foreigners who own or manage a PT PMA (foreign-owned company) in Indonesia.
Key Benefits:
Typical setup cost: $1,000–1,500 (including company and visa assistance).
Perfect for entrepreneurs launching villa developments, cafés, or wellness brands.
If you’re hired by an Indonesian company, you’ll need a Working KITAS, which your employer sponsors.
Requirements:
Duration: 6–12 months (renewable annually).
Note: A Working KITAS ties you to one company — you can’t freelance or switch employers without a new sponsorship.
Family KITAS:
Retirement KITAS:
Best for retirees who want a peaceful, fully legal lifestyle in Bali.
| Aspect | Rule | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Residency | 183+ days/year | Global income may apply |
| Corporate Tax (PT PMA) | 22% | Applies to local operations |
| Individual Tax | 5–35% progressive | Resident income only |
| Reporting | Monthly (digital e-filing) | Zero reports required |
KITAS can be renewed annually and upgraded to KITAP after three consecutive years.
Investor Insight: KITAS holders who manage PT PMA companies can optimize taxes via transparent accounting — essential for banking and property transactions.
Certain KITAS holders — especially investors and directors — can legally manage operations without an additional work permit (IMTA).
This applies to:
Example: A villa developer managing operations under a PT PMA structure doesn’t need a separate IMTA if they hold an Investor KITAS.
Choose your KITAS type (Investor, Working, Family, Retirement).
Prepare documents: passport, sponsor letter, company or agency registration, proof of funds, health insurance.
Submit your application via the Indonesian Immigration E-Visa 2.0 system (now fully digitalized) or through a licensed visa agent.
Receive e-Visa (VITAS) — your entry authorization.
Convert it to KITAS after arrival within 30 days.
Processing time: 4–6 weeks.
While Bali offers freedom and sunshine, staying long-term means handling the paperwork — visas, renewals, and taxes.
These aren’t obstacles but the foundation of a sustainable life in paradise.
A valid KITAS gives you more than legality — it gives credibility with banks, landlords, and partners, ensuring that your dream life in Bali is built on solid ground.
Even the most well-meaning newcomers to Bali sometimes take shortcuts.
It starts innocently — “everyone does it,” “my agent said it’s fine,” “I’ll fix it later.”
But in Indonesia, the legal system is precise, and mistakes can be expensive.
Here’s what to avoid if you want your stay — and your investment — to stay safe.
Working on a Tourist Visa — Illegal and Risky
Many expats arrive on a 30-day or 60-day tourist visa and start freelancing, consulting, or managing rentals “informally.”
What seems harmless — answering work emails, taking client calls, running a small project — is technically a violation of immigration law.
Consequences:
Rule of thumb: If you’re earning money while living in Indonesia, even remotely, you need a proper KITAS — either Working or Investor.
Visa scams are unfortunately common in Bali.
Unregistered “consultants” often promise fast KITAS approval at bargain prices — but deliver fake documents, expired sponsorships, or incomplete registration.
Risks:
How to stay safe: Always verify your visa agent’s license (KANIM / Imigrasi accreditation) and check if the company has a registered business address.
Reputable agencies provide official receipts, tax invoices, and digital submission tracking numbers.
Your KITAS isn’t permanent — it must be renewed before the expiry date (usually every 6–12 months).
Immigration fines for overstaying start at 1,000,000 IDR per day and can quickly escalate to visa cancellation or deportation.
Many expats lose track of timelines, especially when traveling or managing projects abroad.
Pro tip:
Some foreigners are advised to register their business under an Indonesian partner’s name (“nominee”) to avoid opening a PT PMA.
It looks simpler on paper — but it’s one of the most dangerous shortcuts.
Why it’s risky:
Safe alternative:
Create a PT PMA (foreign-owned company) — it’s 100% legal, transparent, and recognized by the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM).
This structure lets you hold shares, manage operations, and apply for the Investor KITAS lawfully.
Legality is always cheaper than repair.
Immigration fines, lawyer fees, and business losses from “shortcuts” far exceed the small upfront cost of doing things right.
Go through verified channels.
Work with licensed immigration agents, registered notaries, and established legal partners like DDA Real Estate, who know both the paperwork — and the reality — of living and investing in Bali.
Example:
A Canadian investor opens a wellness retreat in Uluwatu through PT PMA. He applies for a 2-year Investor KITAS, while his spouse receives a Family KITAS. They open a local bank account, register for tax, and lease land for 30 years under Hak Sewa.
Result: fully legal structure — renewable, tax-compliant, and sustainable.
DDA Real Estate assists foreigners with:
Our mission: help you live, work, and invest in Bali — legally and confidently.
Read also: “Tax & Accounting in Bali for Foreigners”, “How to Start a Business in Bali: Legal, Financial, and Cultural Aspects”, “Company Formation on Bali | KITAS”.
KITAS isn’t just a visa — it’s the foundation of your life in Indonesia.
Whether you’re here to invest, work, or retire, choosing the right KITAS and following proper legal steps protects your freedom, finances, and peace of mind.
Do it right, and Bali becomes more than a destination — it becomes home.
