Many people come to Bali on holiday, then return for a few months and eventually start thinking about moving here.
For long-term stays in Indonesia, there is KITAS, a temporary stay permit.
However, you can't get one simply because you want to. Each category has its own basis: employment, investment, family, remote work or financial means. Here's a look at the options available and how to choose the right one.
What is KITAS
KITAS is the common name for a temporary residence permit in Indonesia. The official term is ITAS (Izin Tinggal Terbatas). Today the permit is issued electronically as an e-ITAS.
Unlike a tourist visa, KITAS is intended for longer stays. However, whether you are allowed to work depends on the permit category.
KITAS should not be confused with KITAP, a permanent stay permit that can be obtained if the established conditions are met.
Types of KITAS
Work KITAS
This is for foreigners who are formally employed in Indonesia. The main category is E23.
The paperwork is handled with the employer's involvement, and the employer must meet the requirements for hiring foreign professionals. In most cases, an RPTKA plan and payment of the DKPTKA levy are required: $100 for each month of employment.
The permit covers only the work activity specified in it.
Read more: Work KITAS in Indonesia.
Investor KITAS
Category E28A is for foreign investors who hold shares in an Indonesian company worth at least 10 billion rupiah.
The permit is initially issued for two years and can be extended. It allows the holder to carry out investment activities and, if appointed accordingly, to serve as a director or commissioner of the company.
Any other operational work requires a separate permit.
Read more: Investor KITAS.
Family KITAS
The E31 categories allow foreigners to live in Indonesia on the basis of family ties. For example, this permit is available to spouses of Indonesian citizens.
To apply, you need to prove your marriage or another family relationship recognized by law.
Read more: Family visa for Indonesia.
KITAS for remote work
The E33G Remote Worker permit suits foreigners who work remotely for a company based abroad.
To apply, you need an employment contract with a foreign employer and a proven annual income of at least $60,000.
The permit is valid for one year, does not require a local sponsor and does not allow you to work for an Indonesian company.
Read more: E33G visa for remote workers.
KITAS for performers
For musicians, DJs, actors and dancers, the right permit depends on the type of work.
Category C7 is used for short-term performances, while long-term contract work requires an E23 work KITAS.
Read more: KITAS for performers in Bali.
Retirement KITAS
There are two categories for foreigners aged 55 and over:
- E33F: for one year, with a sponsor and a proven income or pension of at least $3,000 per month.
- E33E: for five years, without a sponsor, with a $50,000 deposit in an Indonesian state-owned bank and a monthly income of at least $3,000.
Read more: KITAP and retirement visas in Indonesia.
Second Home
Category E33 allows financially secure foreigners to live in Indonesia for up to five years.
The main requirement is a deposit of at least $130,000 in a state-owned bank, or the purchase of a qualifying apartment worth at least $1 million within the set period.
Working is not permitted under this category.
How to get a KITAS in Bali
The process starts with choosing the right category and preparing your documents. The standard set includes your passport, a photo and proof of your basis for staying.
Depending on the KITAS you choose, you may also need documents from your employer, investment details, or proof of income or family ties.
The application is submitted through Indonesia's immigration system. Once the documents have been checked and the fees paid, a decision is made on whether to issue the permit.
The official processing time for a visa application is four working days after payment. However, the full process takes longer: from several weeks to two or three months, depending on the category and how the documents are prepared.
In some cases, you can obtain an ITAS without leaving Indonesia, if your current immigration status allows such a switch.
What KITAS gives you
The main benefit is the ability to live in Indonesia legally for the specified period.
KITAS also helps with the practical side of long-term living:
- Banking. It is easier for a foreigner to open an account with a local bank, although the final decision depends on the bank's own requirements.
- Renting property. You can sign long-term rental agreements for housing.
- Multiple entry. A Re-Entry Permit lets you leave the country and return while your permit is valid.
- Work and investment. Depending on the KITAS category, you can carry out the professional or investment activities covered by the permit.
However, KITAS does not grant a general right to work and does not automatically give you the right to own land.
Extending a KITAS and switching to KITAP
How long a KITAS is valid depends on its category. Many permits can be extended, and for some, the total period of temporary residence can reach six years.
If they meet the established requirements, foreigners can apply for KITAP, a permanent stay permit.
Employees, investors and retirees usually need at least three years of continuous residence on an ITAS. For spouses of Indonesian citizens, one of the conditions is a marriage of at least two years.
Read more: KITAP in Indonesia.
Why a KITAS application may be rejected
Common reasons for rejection include choosing the wrong category, errors in or missing documents, lack of financial proof, and the applicant not meeting immigration requirements.
It is especially important to keep work restrictions in mind. For example, E33G allows you to work remotely for a foreign company but does not give you the right to take a job in Indonesia.
How to choose the right KITAS
The choice depends on your reason for moving, your source of income, your professional activities and your financial means. That's why, before applying, it's important to check not only the category's requirements but also the rights it grants.
Legal Indonesia can help you choose the right KITAS, understand the requirements and prepare your documents for a long-term stay in Bali.
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