Things You Need to Know About Bridging Visa Policy in Indonesia

Indonesia has implemented a brand new policy called Bridging Visa. This new policy intends to streamline the immigration process for those who reside within its borders.  This visa eliminates the need to exit Indonesia while applications for residence permits are being processed, saving you time, money, and unnecessary hassle as a foreigner.

What is A Bridging Visa in Indonesia?

A Bridging Visa, also known as a Transition Stay Permit, serves as a bridge between the previous stay permit and obtaining a new one. It is a solution for extending the stay of foreign nationals in Indonesia while waiting for a new visa. This service helps to avoid overstays and ensures smooth activities in Indonesia.

When Should You Apply for a Bridging Visa?

Foreign nationals applying to switch to a Limited Stay Permit can use the Bridging Visa. If their application is approved after the validity period of their previous stay permit has ended, they are not subject to overstay penalties.

How Long Can You Stay on A Bridging Visa?

The Bridging Visa is valid for 60 days and applies only onshore, meaning it is for foreign nationals already within Indonesian territory. This stay permit is no longer valid if the foreign national leaves Indonesia.

Bridging Visas in Other Countries

In other countries, a Bridging Visa is a specialized visa designed to cover the duration between the expiration of your current visa and the decision on your new visa application. It allows non-citizens to stay in the country legally during this interim period.

Typically, you can apply for a Bridging Visa only if you currently or have previously held a substantive visa. Substantive visas permit long-term stays or permanent residency, such as work, student, and family visas.

Conversely, non-substantive visas are temporary and short-term, including Bridging Visas, enforcement visas, and criminal justice visas.

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Benefits of the Bridging Visa

The Bridging Visa presents numerous advantages, providing individuals with flexibility and peace of mind during transitional periods. These advantages include:

1. Mutual Benefits

This new program provides a win-win scenario. Foreign residents save time and money and avoid the stress of international travel. At the same time, Indonesia gains from increased legal stability for residents and a more streamlined permit renewal process.

2. No More Overstays

Individuals whose previous residence permits expire can also benefit from the Bridging Visa. If they apply at least three days before their permit expires and pay the necessary fee, they will be considered staying within the bounds.

3. Freedom to Explore

Holders of the five-year multiple-entry visa can visit various destinations in Indonesia, reconnect with family and friends, and participate in different activities and meetings. However, this visa is not intended for employment purposes.

4. Extended Stays for Tourists and Business Travelers

For those wishing to explore Indonesia’s rich culture and natural beauty for more extended, a new five-year multiple-entry visa is now available for tourism and business purposes.

This visa allows stays of up to 60 days per visit and is ideal for repeat travelers or those planning extended stays. It costs USD 972 (IDR 15,000,000) and can be obtained online.

More Visa-Friendly Measures Coming Soon

Indonesia is committed to attracting visitors and investment. The country plans to relax visa requirements for citizens of 20 countries, making it easier than ever to explore this Southeast Asian paradise.

How to Apply for a Bridging Visa

Implementing the Bridging Visa is regulated by the Minister of Law and Human Rights Regulation (Permenkumham) Number 11 of 2024, enacted on April 1, 2024.

The Bridging Visa is valid for 60 days and only applies onshore. It is for foreign nationals already in Indonesia and becomes invalid if the foreign national leaves Indonesia. Foreign nationals who wish to use the Bridging Visa can follow these steps:

Application

Foreign nationals must submit their visa applications through the Indonesian Immigration Office’s official website, accessible at visa.immigrate.go.id. This online platform streamlines the application process, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in handling visa submissions.

Payment

Once the application is submitted, the foreign national must make the immigration fee payment no later than 3 (three) days before their current residence permit expires.

Other Visa Types in Indonesia

When it comes to visiting a foreign country, many visa options are available depending on the purpose of your visit. Some of the most common visas include:

Business Visas

The single-entry visa, valid for 60 days upon arrival, offers flexibility with up to four possible extensions. It caters to business professionals engaged in various activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or conducting market research within Indonesia.

This visa requires sponsorship from a legal entity in Indonesia, and holders are not permitted to seek employment there.

Multiple Entry Business Visas

Multiple-entry business visas allow foreign visitors to visit Indonesia repeatedly for one year. Each visit is limited to 60 days, after which visitors must leave the country and re-enter if they wish to stay longer.

The requirements for obtaining this visa are the same as those for a business visa, and the fee is USD 100.

Obtain Your Visa Hassle-Free with InCorp

Navigating visa requirements as a foreigner can be challenging, but InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) is here to assist you. We offer comprehensive immigration services, including KITAP and KITAS, to ensure your stay in Indonesia is smooth and hassle-free.

Our expertise will assist you in managing all the necessary legal and administrative processes, allowing you to focus on your personal or business pursuits with peace of mind. Complete the form below to obtain your visa hassle-free.