Long term stay visas for bali expats
Foreigners planning a long-term stay in Bali have several visa and permit options to choose from. Below, we outline the key visas available for extended stays:
- Visa Exemption
- Visa on Arrival
- Single Entry Visa
- Multiple Entry Visa
- Limited Stay Permit (ITAS/KITAS)
While each visa serves a specific purpose, this article focuses on those best suited for long-term living in Indonesia: the single entry visa, the multiple entry visa, and the limited stay permit (ITAS/KITAS).
Important Consideration
Foreigners cannot hold two active visas simultaneously in Indonesia. If a new visa is obtained during the validity period of an existing visa, the previous visa automatically becomes invalid.
Single or Multiple Entry Visa for Long-Term Stays
For those intending to stay long term in Bali or elsewhere in Indonesia, two primary options are available:
Single Entry Visa
The single entry visa is a popular choice for medium to long-term stays, allowing up to six months in Indonesia. After the six-month period, a new single entry visa can be obtained. While this process can be repeated multiple times, frequent applications may attract scrutiny from immigration authorities.
Advantages:
- Straightforward application process
- Lower costs compared to the ITAS/KITAS
Types of Single Entry Visa:
- Social Single Entry Visa (Sosial Budaya Visa): Sponsored by an Indonesian citizen, this visa allows engagement in social activities.
- Single Entry Business Visa: Sponsored by an Indonesian company, this visa permits business meetings in Indonesia.
Note: Single entry visas do not authorize foreigners to work in Indonesia. Digital nomads often use this visa to work remotely, but working for an Indonesian employer requires a work permit and an ITAS/KITAS.
Multiple Entry Visa
Primarily used for business, the multiple entry visa can also be used for family visits, attending seminars, or participating in cultural events. This visa is valid for 12 months, allowing multiple visits of up to 60 days each within that period. Unlike the single entry visa, the multiple entry visa remains valid even when the holder leaves Indonesia.
Key Points:
- Requires sponsorship from an Indonesian company
- Does not permit employment in Indonesia
This visa is ideal for individuals planning long-term stays in Bali while frequently traveling abroad.
Limited Stay Permit (ITAS/KITAS) for Extended Stays
The limited stay permit (ITAS/KITAS) is the best option for foreigners planning to reside in Bali for several years. It offers a validity period of up to two years and allows for in-country extensions. ITAS/KITAS holders also receive a multiple re-entry permit, enabling travel without invalidating their stay permit.
Types of Stay Permits
Working Stay Permit:
- Suitable for foreigners employed by an Indonesian company.
- Includes both a work permit (from the Ministry of Manpower) and a stay permit (ITAS/KITAS).
Investor Stay Permit:
- For foreigners owning shares in an Indonesian limited liability company (PMA).
- Advantages include:
- No requirement for a work permit, saving up to USD 1,200 annually.
- Two-year validity, reducing renewal costs.
Family Stay Permit:
- Requires sponsorship from an Indonesian spouse.
- Does not allow employment; a work permit is needed for professional activities.
- Retirement Stay Permit:
- Available to foreigners aged 55 or older.
- Sponsored by a company accredited by the Directorate General of Immigration.
- Prohibits employment, intended for those seeking to enjoy retirement in Indonesia.