Whether you're heading to Indonesia for work, study, retirement, or just soaking up the tropical vibes long-term, one thing’s for sure: you’ll need the right visa.
Indonesia is known for its warm culture, lush landscapes, and laid-back lifestyle—but its visa rules? A little less breezy. At Pacific Cross, we want to help you navigate your journey stress-free, so here’s what you need to know about staying in Indonesia beyond a typical tourist stint.
No matter how you enter the country—by air, sea, or land—if you plan to stay longer than 60 days, a visa is essential. The Single-Entry Visit Visa is one of the most common options for short-term stays. It’s valid for 60 days and can be extended up to five times, giving you a potential total of 180 days.
That said, many types of visas have been in flux since the COVID-19 pandemic. While visa-free entries and Visa on Arrival (VoA) options have been temporarily suspended in some cases, visitor and tourist visas are still available—so don’t worry, Indonesia is still welcoming foreign guests.
Under the latest COVID-19 travel regulations, foreigners holding the following visas and permits can stay legally in Indonesia:
Each of these comes with its own purpose and paperwork—but the most flexible long-stay option is the KITAS.
KITAS stands for Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas, or Temporary Stay Permit Card. It’s designed for foreigners planning to stay in Indonesia for longer periods, typically up to two years. You can renew it, extend it to a maximum of six years, and it's suitable for:
Depending on your purpose of stay, there are different categories of KITAS. For example:
Prices vary based on the type and duration. For instance, a one-year KITAS may cost around USD 90, while a two-year one might be USD 160. Applications can be made at the Indonesian embassy in your home country or via a local sponsor inside Indonesia.
Pro tip: Always check with your nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate for up-to-date requirements and processing times.
No matter which visa you apply for, one thing remains essential: travel insurance. Having a reliable insurance policy isn’t just a visa requirement in many cases—it’s also your safety net abroad. From unexpected medical emergencies to travel delays or accidents, Pacific Cross offers flexible plans tailored to expats and long-term travelers in Indonesia.
Thinking of setting up your laptop in Bali or taking a corporate role in Jakarta? Great—but not so fast.
Foreigners can’t just enter Indonesia and start job hunting. You’ll need employment lined up first, and your employer must sponsor your visa. Here’s how it works:
You’ll also need to show that you have relevant qualifications or at least five years of experience in your field. Certain positions are off-limits to foreigners to protect local employment—these are listed under Indonesia’s Positive Investment List, which replaced the more restrictive “Negative Investment List” in 2021.
Key documents include:
Companies must also submit their business license, tax ID, and organizational chart.
If you’ve been accepted into an Indonesian university—congrats! You’ll need a student visa, and the process begins as soon as you receive your acceptance letter.
Here’s what you’ll need:
As always, start early. Visa applications can take time, and each embassy might have slightly different requirements.
Foreign researchers must first get approval through the Ministry of Research and Technology’s online portal. Once approved, you’ll pick up your visa at your local Indonesian embassy.
You’ll need to submit:
Once you land in Indonesia, head to the Research Permit Secretariat in Jakarta to finalize your paperwork.
Although Indonesia is gradually reopening, some areas still face travel restrictions and entry conditions due to COVID-19. Policies are changing fast, so it’s best to consult with official government sources or your embassy before booking your trip.
Even with the right visa, life in a new country comes with surprises. That’s where Pacific Cross can help. Our health and travel insurance plans are designed for expats, students, and professionals staying in Indonesia—so whether it’s a medical emergency, delayed baggage, or a last-minute visa extension, we’ve got your back.
Final Thoughts
Living or working in Indonesia can be an exciting and rewarding experience—but getting the paperwork right is key. From KITAS to work permits and student visas, each route has its own path. When in doubt, reach out to the Indonesian embassy, do your homework, and make sure you're covered with the right insurance plan.
Want help choosing the right plan for your time in Indonesia? Get in touch with Pacific Cross today.
