C11 Visa for Indonesia: How to Apply for the Correct Visa as an Exhibitor

Indonesia has stringent immigration regulations for foreign nationals attending business events. If you plan to market your products, showcase your services, or speak at an industry event, you must obtain the appropriate visa. The C11 visa is the official exhibition visa for foreign exhibitors. 

This article walks you through everything you need to know about the Indonesia C11 visa application process, common pitfalls, and how to ensure you’re fully compliant with immigration laws. 

Understanding the C11 Visa and Who It’s For 

The C11 visa is a business visa for foreigners attending MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events in Indonesia. If you’re coming to exhibit products, deliver a presentation, or participate in any form of promotional or commercial activity, this is the visa category you need. 

Unlike tourist or general business visit visas, the exhibition visa is tailored for those actively involved in trade shows, expos, or commercial conventions. 

It ensures that foreign nationals entering the country for these events are correctly documented and compliant with immigration regulations. 

Who Needs the C11 Visa? 

You must apply for the C11 visa if you are: 

• A company representative exhibiting products or services at a trade show 
• A guest speaker or panelist at a conference or convention 
• A promotional staff member supporting a booth or stand 
• An event sponsor or stakeholder engaged in direct promotional activities 

Note: Using a Tourist Visa or a Visa on Arrival (VOA) to participate in exhibitions is not permitted under Indonesian law. Organizers may even refuse your entry to the event without a valid exhibitor visa required by Indonesia.

Key Requirements for the C11 Visa  

Foreign nationals entering Indonesia for exhibitions, conventions, or business events must obtain the C11 visa, as required by the Minister of Law and Human Rights Regulation No. 29 of 2021. This visa is mandatory for exhibitors. 

To apply for the C11 visa, you must meet the following requirements: 

• Purpose: Specifically for those marketing products/services, exhibiting, or presenting at formal business events. 
• Single Entry: The visa is issued for a single entry and is typically valid for up to 60 days. 
• Passport Validity: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Indonesia. 
• Sponsorship or Invitation Letter: Must be provided by an Indonesian event organizer or local business entity. 
• Responsibility: Obtaining the visa is entirely the responsibility of the exhibitor; event organizers typically will not process it for you. 

How to Apply for the C11 Visa: Step-by-Step Guide 

The process to secure a C11 visa for Indonesia requires proper documentation and strict compliance with immigration rules. While the steps may seem straightforward, missing just one requirement can result in delays or visa denial. Here’s a simplified overview of the process: 

• Confirm your eligibility based on your role at the exhibition or event. 
• Secure a sponsorship or invitation letter from a registered Indonesian organizer or business. 
• Prepare essential documents, including your passport, recent photo, and proof of event participation. 
• Apply through the correct channel, whether online or through the Indonesian Embassy. 
• Pay the applicable visa fee and await processing. 
• Travel with the correct documents once your visa is approved. 

Ensure a smooth border entry with our professional assistance for your Indonesia C11 visa application. We guarantee all requirements are met and your visa is processed efficiently. 

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 

Applying for the C11 visa may seem simple, but many exhibitors unknowingly make critical errors that jeopardize their entry into Indonesia. These mistakes often lead to visa rejection, border refusal, or disqualification from the event. 

• Using the Wrong Visa Type: Many applicants mistakenly enter with a tourist visa or a Visa on Arrival, which is not valid for exhibition purposes. Immigration officials may deny entry on this basis alone. 
• Missing or Invalid Sponsorship Letters: A generic or improperly formatted invitation letter can result in a failed application. Only recognized Indonesian entities can issue valid sponsorship documents. 
• Applying Too Late: Processing times vary. Waiting until the last minute often leads to missed events or rushed, rejected applications. 
• Incomplete Documentation: Even one missing document, such as proof of participation or a return ticket, can trigger a delay or denial. 
• Assuming the Organizer Handles It: Many exhibitors mistakenly assume that event organizers handle the visa process. In most cases, the responsibility lies entirely with the participant. 

To avoid these pitfalls, InCorp offers tailored support for your exhibitor visa application in Indonesia. We review your documents, ensure they’re in the correct format, and check every box.

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Secure Your C11 Visa with InCorp 

If you’re planning to attend a trade show, convention, or exhibition in Indonesia, securing the correct visa is non-negotiable. The exhibition visa (C11) is the only approved category for foreign nationals participating in MICE events, and applying under the wrong classification could cost you time, money, and your place at the event. 

Avoid confusion, paperwork errors, and immigration risks with InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company), which understands the process inside and out. 

• Get full support with your Indonesia C11 visa application 
• Ensure you meet all legal and documentation requirements 
• Enter Indonesia smoothly and focus on your exhibition goals 

Don’t leave your exhibitor visa Indonesia application to chance. Fill out the form below to get professional assistance tailored to your event and nationality.

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