What Is KITAS and How to Apply in Indonesia (Complete Guide for Foreigners)
Indonesia is one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia. Foreign professionals, investors, and families increasingly choose Indonesia to work, build businesses, or reside long-term.
However, to live in Indonesia lawfully for more than 60 days, most foreigners must hold a valid KITAS — the main Temporary Stay Permit issued by the Indonesian Immigration Office.
Without KITAS, foreigners risk fines, deportation, and re-entry bans under national immigration regulations.
This guide provides detailed, clear, and updated information about KITAS — including definition, types, requirements, application steps, duration, benefits, and costs — based on Indonesia’s immigration laws and 2024–2025 regulatory updates.
Definition of KITAS
KITAS stands for:
➡️ Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas
or
➡️ Limited Stay Permit Card
A KITAS allows a foreign national (WNA) to legally live in Indonesia for 6–12 months, with an option to extend annually depending on the KITAS category.
It is issued based on the purpose of stay, such as:
✔ Employment
✔ Investment
✔ Family unification
✔ Retirement
✔ Education/research
KITAS is also linked to additional essential permits such as:
- IMTA (Work Permit) for foreign workers
- SKTT (Civil registration for KITAS holders)
- NPWP (Tax ID for employment-based KITAS)
Types of KITAS in Indonesia
There are several categories of KITAS, each with different requirements and sponsor rules:
| Type of KITAS | Suitable For | Sponsorship |
| Work KITAS | Foreign employees | Company/employer |
| Investor KITAS | Business owners / shareholders | PMA Company (foreign-owned) |
| Family KITAS | Foreign spouses/children of Indonesians or KITAP/KITAS holders | Indonesian spouse or family sponsor |
| Retirement KITAS | Foreign retirees age 55+ | Licensed retirement agency |
| Student/Research KITAS | International students & researchers | Educational institution |
| Repatriation KITAS | Returning Indonesians with foreign families | Local family sponsor |
🔎 Important Note:
A Tourist Visa CANNOT be converted directly into a KITAS. KITAS requires a qualified sponsor and official immigration approval (Telex Visa).
Who Needs a KITAS?
A KITAS is mandatory for foreigners who will:
- Work legally in Indonesia
- Own/operate a business in Indonesia
- Stay longer than 60 days
- Join Indonesian family members
- Retire in Indonesia
➡️ If the main purpose is business meetings only, a Business Visa is more appropriate (no work allowed).
Steps to Apply for KITAS in Indonesia
(Updated Procedure Through Online System 2024–2025)
1. Determine KITAS type and secure a valid sponsor
- Company → Work KITAS / Investor KITAS
- Family → Spouse KITAS
- Retirement → Travel agency sponsor
2. Submit application to Immigration Directorate General
Sponsor applies for Electronic Pre-Approval / Telex Visa
3. Telex Visa issued and sent electronically
Applicant receives approval and must proceed with visa pickup
4. Convert Visa to KITAS upon arrival in Indonesia
Immigration biometric process (photo & fingerprints)
5. KITAS issued in digital format
Foreigners receive e-KITAS (electronic card) + related permits
Required Documents for KITAS
Although requirements vary depending on KITAS type, most foreigners must provide:
| For Applicant | For Sponsor |
| Passport (valid 18+ months) | Company legal documents (NIB, Deed, NPWP, etc.) |
| Recent ID photos | Employment agreement or Investment proof |
| Bank statements (if required) | Domicile Letter |
| Health insurance | Invitation letter / sponsorship letter |
| Curriculum Vitae (for workers) | Company staffing plan (RPTKA) — if employing foreigners |
For Family KITAS:
- Marriage certificate & family card of Indonesian spouse
- Birth certificate for children
✅ All foreign documents must be legally translated and notarized if required.
Processing Time & Validity Period
| KITAS Type | Validity | Processing Time |
| Work KITAS | 6–12 months | ± 30 working days |
| Investor KITAS | 1–2 years | ± 30–40 working days |
| Family KITAS | 6–12 months | ± 20–30 working days |
| Retirement KITAS | 1 year | ± 30 working days |
Extensions allowed annually (maximum depending on category).
Cost Overview (2025 Estimate)
Fees vary depending on:
- KITAS category (work vs. investor vs. family)
- Sponsor type
- Location of processing
Average official immigration fee range:
➡️ USD 500 – USD 1,500 (not including consulting services)
Work KITAS involves additional cost due to employment permit (DPKK & IMTA).
💡 Using a professional consultant like Korsia Group prevents delays, costly mistakes, and legal non-compliance.
Benefits of Holding a KITAS
- Legal stay in Indonesia
- Permission to work (if employment KITAS)
- Open bank account in Indonesia
- Lease property legally
- Register for utilities and local services
- Eligible for KITAP permanent stay permit after several years
KITAS is the first critical step before long-term residency in Indonesia.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Arriving without proper visa sponsorship
- Overstay penalties (IDR 1,000,000 per day as of 2024)
- Working while holding Business Visa or Tourist Visa
- Giving incomplete documents → delays and rejections
📌 Immigration rules are enforced strictly — compliance is a must.
How Korsia Group Helps Foreigners
As a licensed legal and immigration consultancy, Korsia Group provides:
- KITAS consultation & eligibility check
- Company sponsorship setup (if required)
- Telex Visa application & follow-up
- Document translation and legalization
- Biometric appointment assistance
- Post-approval reporting and renewals
We support clients from start to finish with full transparency and secure documentation workflow.
“Our mission is to ensure every foreigner in Indonesia can live, work, and invest confidently with complete legal protection.”
Conclusion
Applying for a KITAS is essential for foreigners planning to stay, work, run a business, or reunite with family in Indonesia. Although the requirements and procedures may seem complex, choosing the right KITAS type and working with a qualified consultant can make the process smooth and stress-free.
With Korsia Group, you receive comprehensive legal guidance, expert handling, and full compliance in all immigration matters — helping you build your future in Indonesia securely.
Next Step: Check which KITAS type is right for you — and let our experts take care of the rest.