Indonesia offers visa-free entry to citizens of several countries, facilitating seamless travel for short-term visits.
This policy aims to promote tourism and strengthen international relations. However, travelers planning extended stays or engaging in specific activities may need to apply for appropriate visas.
All travelers must also have the required documents when they arrive, such as a valid passport and the Customs Declaration form. These are required even if you can enter Indonesia without a visa.
Which Countries’ Citizens Can Travel to Indonesia Visa-Free?
As of November 2024, citizens from the following countries can enter Indonesia without a visa for stays up to 30 days:
- Brunei Darussalam
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- Philippines
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Hong Kong
- Colombia
- Timor-Leste
- Suriname
Visa-free entry permits a stay of up to 30 days and cannot be extended or converted to another type of visa.
Entry is granted through designated immigration checkpoints, including major airports and seaports.
Required Documents for Visa-Free Entry to Indonesia
Even if you are traveling visa-free, you must present specific documents to enter Indonesia. These include:
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Return or onward ticket: Proof of plans to leave Indonesia before the 30-day limit expires.
- Customs Declaration Form: Complete the Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD) form online before arrival. Present the QR code to immigration officers upon entry.
Carrying these documents ensures a smooth entry process and avoids potential delays at immigration checkpoints.
Apply for Customs Declaration Form
Visa Options for a Longer Stay
If you plan to stay in Indonesia beyond the 30-day visa-free period or engage in activities other than tourism, you must apply for an appropriate visa. The visa types you can choose are:
Visit Visa (B211A)
The Visit Visa is suitable for longer stays up to 60 days and can be extended twice, each time for 60 days. It is ideal for tourism, business, social, or cultural visits.
You can for the visa in the following ways:
- Online (e-Visa): Apply through the official Indonesian immigration website by completing the application form, uploading required documents, and paying the fee.
- Indonesian Embassy/Consulate: Apply in person at an Indonesian diplomatic mission in your country.
It’s possible to extend the Visit Visa. Extensions are processed at local immigration offices in Indonesia. Each extension grants an additional 60 days, allowing a maximum stay of 180 days.
Study Visa (KITAS for Students)
A study visa is required for individuals enrolling in educational institutions in Indonesia. It allows students to live in Indonesia for the duration of their academic program.
To apply for the KITAS, you must go through the following process:
- Institution sponsorship: Secure a letter of acceptance and sponsorship from an Indonesian school or university.
- Application submission: Submit your application to the nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate, including proof of enrollment, passport copies, and financial documentation.
- Temporary Stay Permit (KITAS): Upon arrival, convert your visa into a KITAS by visiting a local immigration office.
This visa type allows limited work opportunities, such as internships, directly tied to your studies.
Work Visa (KITAS for Employment)
Individuals wishing to work in Indonesia must apply for a work visa. Employers typically sponsor this visa.
This has a similar application process to the KITAS for study:
- Employer Sponsorship: Your Indonesian employer must initiate the process by obtaining a work permit (IMTA) from the Ministry of Manpower.
- Visa Approval: Once the work permit is issued, apply for a temporary stay visa at an Indonesian embassy or consulate.
- KITAS Conversion: Upon arrival, convert the visa to a work KITAS at a local immigration office.
Keep in mind that in Indonesia, work visas are tied to your employer and specific job. Changing employers requires a new visa application.
Research and Other Special Visas
For activities like research, journalism, or investment, specific visas are available. These require pre-approval from Indonesian authorities and supporting documentation.
Research Visa
A Research Visa typically requires collaboration with an Indonesian institution.
- Applications must include research proposals and academic credentials.
Investor Visa
- Designed for individuals starting businesses or making significant investments.
- Requires evidence of financial commitment.
Top Tips for Visa-Free Travel to Indonesia
- Compliance: Adhere to Indonesian immigration laws and regulations to avoid penalties or deportation.
- Documentation: Carry necessary documents, including a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds.
- Updates: Visa policies may change; consult the official Indonesian immigration website or your local Indonesian embassy for the latest information. The news section of our website also has interesting and informative articles that can help you resolve any doubts.
