Key Takeaways
• New hybrid visa extension process in Bali requires online registration and in-person biometrics starting July 2025.
• Visa on Arrival valid for 30 days, extendable once; other visas include KITAS and KITAP for long-term stays.
• Overstaying, false documents, or prior immigration violations disqualify applicants; official sites and agents aid application success.
If you’re planning to visit or stay in Bali, understanding the latest Indonesian Immigration rules is essential. As of July 2025, new procedures and requirements affect how foreigners can enter, extend their visas, and remain in Bali. This guide explains who qualifies for each visa or stay permit, what you need to apply, reasons you might be denied, and what to do if you’re not eligible. You’ll also find practical examples and tips to help you stay compliant and avoid problems with Indonesian Immigration.
Who Qualifies for Indonesian Visas and Stay Permits in Bali?
Indonesian Immigration offers several types of visas and stay permits for foreigners in Bali. Each has its own rules and requirements. The main categories are:
- Short-term visas for tourists and business visitors
- Long-term stay permits (KITAS and KITAP) for work, retirement, investment, family, or other purposes
Let’s break down the eligibility for each option.
1. Visa on Arrival (VoA): Who Can Get It?
Yes, you qualify if:
– You are a citizen of one of over 80 approved countries (including Australia, United States 🇺🇸, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and many others).
– Your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
– You have proof of onward travel (such as a return ticket or a ticket to another country).
– You can pay the VoA fee of IDR 500,000 (about $32 USD).
– You plan to stay in Indonesia 🇮🇩 for up to 30 days (with the option to extend once for another 30 days).
No, you do not qualify if:
– Your country is not on the approved list for VoA.
– Your passport is valid for less than 6 months.
– You do not have a ticket to leave Indonesia.
– You have previously overstayed a visa in Indonesia or have been blacklisted.
Example:
Maria from Spain arrives in Bali for a 2-week holiday. She has a passport valid for 8 months and a return ticket. She pays the VoA fee at the airport. Maria qualifies for the VoA.
Disqualifying Factors:
– Arriving without proof of onward travel.
– Passport expiring soon.
– Previous immigration violations in Indonesia.
How to Improve Your Chances:
– Check the official Indonesia Immigration website for the latest list of eligible countries.
– Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
– Book your return or onward ticket before you arrive.
2. Extending Your Visa on Arrival: New Hybrid System
Yes, you qualify for a VoA extension if:
– You entered Indonesia on a valid VoA.
– You apply for the extension before your initial 30 days expire.
– You complete the new hybrid process: register online, then attend an in-person appointment for document verification and biometric data collection.
No, you do not qualify if:
– You overstay your initial 30 days without applying for an extension.
– You entered Indonesia on a different visa type that does not allow extension.
– You fail to attend the required in-person appointment.
Example:
John from Australia wants to stay in Bali for 50 days. After 25 days, he registers online for a VoA extension, uploads his documents, and schedules an appointment at the local immigration office. He attends the appointment, provides his fingerprints, and pays the extension fee. John’s stay is extended for another 30 days.
Disqualifying Factors:
– Missing the extension deadline.
– Not showing up for your appointment.
– Providing false or incomplete documents.
How to Improve Your Chances:
– Start the extension process at least a week before your visa expires.
– Use the official Indonesia Immigration website to register and follow instructions carefully.
– If you use a visa agent like Bali Legals, you may only need to visit immigration once.
3. Single Entry Visit Visa (C211A): Who Can Apply?
Yes, you qualify if:
– You want to visit Indonesia for tourism, family, or cultural reasons.
– You apply online before traveling or through an Indonesian embassy.
– You have a passport valid for at least 6 months.
– You can show proof of funds and onward travel.
– You pay the required visa fee.
No, you do not qualify if:
– You have a criminal record or are on an immigration blacklist.
– Your passport is not valid for 6 months.
– You cannot show proof of funds or onward travel.
Example:
Anna from Germany wants to visit her family in Bali for 2 months. She applies for a C211A visa online, uploads her documents, and pays the fee. She receives a 60-day visa, which she can extend twice for 60 days each.
Disqualifying Factors:
– Incomplete application.
– Insufficient funds.
– Failing background checks.
How to Improve Your Chances:
– Prepare all documents before applying.
– Double-check your application for errors.
– Apply early to allow time for processing.
4. Multiple Entry Visit Visa: Is It Right for You?
Yes, you qualify if:
– You need to visit Indonesia multiple times in a year (for business, tourism, or as a digital nomad).
– You have an Indonesian sponsor (for business visas).
– You meet all document and financial requirements.
No, you do not qualify if:
– You do not have a valid reason for multiple entries.
– You lack a sponsor (for business visas).
– You have a history of overstaying or violating visa rules.
Example:
David is a digital nomad who visits Bali several times a year. He applies for a multiple entry visa, which lets him stay up to 60 days per visit for one year.
Disqualifying Factors:
– No sponsor for business purposes.
– Past immigration violations.
How to Improve Your Chances:
– Secure a reliable sponsor if needed.
– Keep a clean immigration record.
5. KITAS (Limited Stay Permit): Who Is Eligible?
Yes, you qualify if:
– You have a job offer from an Indonesian company, want to retire, invest, join a spouse, study, or work remotely.
– You meet the specific requirements for your KITAS type (work, retirement, investment, spouse, student, remote worker, entertainment, or second home).
– Your passport is valid for at least 18 months (for most KITAS types).
– You can provide all supporting documents (job contract, marriage certificate, investment proof, etc.).
– You follow the new process: after approval, you must exit and re-enter Indonesia within 90 days to activate your KITAS if you applied while inside the country.
No, you do not qualify if:
– You do not meet the requirements for your chosen KITAS type.
– You have a criminal record or are on a blacklist.
– You fail to provide required documents or information.
Example:
Sophie is offered a teaching job in Bali. Her employer sponsors her KITAS, and she submits all required documents. After approval, she leaves Indonesia and returns within 90 days to activate her KITAS, which is then emailed to her.
Disqualifying Factors:
– Missing or fake documents.
– Not activating KITAS within 90 days.
– Not meeting financial or sponsorship requirements.
How to Improve Your Chances:
– Work closely with your sponsor or employer.
– Prepare all documents in advance.
– Follow the activation steps carefully.
6. KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit): Who Can Get It?
Yes, you qualify if:
– You have held a KITAS for several years (usually 3–5 years, depending on the category).
– You are married to an Indonesian citizen, have invested significantly, or meet other long-term residency requirements.
– You have a clean immigration and criminal record.
No, you do not qualify if:
– You have not held a KITAS for the required period.
– You have a history of overstaying or breaking Indonesian laws.
– You cannot provide proof of your eligibility.
Example:
Mark has lived in Bali with his Indonesian wife for 5 years on a spouse KITAS. He applies for a KITAP and is granted permanent residency.
Disqualifying Factors:
– Not meeting the minimum stay requirement.
– Immigration or legal violations.
How to Improve Your Chances:
– Keep all records of your stay and renewals.
– Stay compliant with all Indonesian laws.
7. What Disqualifies You from Indonesian Immigration Benefits?
- Overstaying your visa: Even one day over your allowed stay can result in fines, deportation, or blacklisting.
- Providing false information or documents: This can lead to immediate denial and future bans.
- Criminal convictions: Certain offenses make you ineligible for most visas and permits.
- Not following reporting or renewal rules: Failing to report changes or renew on time can cause problems.
8. Alternative Options if You’re Not Eligible
If you don’t qualify for your preferred visa or permit, consider these alternatives:
- Apply for a different visa type: For example, if you can’t get a VoA, try for a Single Entry Visit Visa (C211A).
- Use a reputable visa agent: Services like Bali Legals can guide you through the process and help fix application issues.
- Leave and re-enter Indonesia: Sometimes, leaving the country and applying from abroad is the best solution.
- Consult with Indonesian Immigration: Visit the official immigration website or local office for advice.
9. How to Improve Your Chances for Indonesian Immigration Approval
- Stay informed: Rules can change quickly. Always check the latest updates from official sources.
- Prepare documents early: Gather your passport, photos, proof of funds, and other paperwork before applying.
- Follow instructions: Complete all steps in the application and extension process, including online registration and in-person appointments.
- Keep your passport valid: Renew your passport if it’s close to expiring.
- Use official channels: Apply through the Indonesia Immigration website for eVisa and extensions.
10. What’s New in 2025? Key Changes to Indonesian Immigration in Bali
- Hybrid visa extension system: You must now register online and attend an in-person appointment for most visa extensions. This aims to reduce visa abuse and unlawful activities.
- KITAS process streamlined: No need to surrender your passport; permits are delivered by email.
- Stricter enforcement: More checks and in-person requirements to ensure compliance.
- Focus on security: Indonesian Immigration is working to protect national security and reduce illegal stays.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, these changes reflect Indonesia’s efforts to balance tourism and investment with the need for stronger immigration controls.
11. Practical Tips for Foreigners in Bali
- Plan ahead: Schedule your immigration office visit early, especially during busy tourist seasons.
- Keep copies of all documents: Save digital and paper copies of your visa, passport, and receipts.
- Use trusted visa services: If you’re unsure, a reputable agent can help you avoid mistakes.
- Stay updated: Follow official social media pages and check the Indonesia Directorate General of Immigration for news.
12. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I extend my Visa on Arrival more than once?
A: No. The VoA can only be extended once for a total stay of 60 days.
Q: What happens if I overstay my visa in Bali?
A: You will face fines, possible detention, deportation, and a ban from re-entering Indonesia.
Q: Can I switch from a tourist visa to a KITAS while in Bali?
A: In some cases, yes, but you must follow the correct procedures and may need to leave and re-enter Indonesia.
Q: Where can I find the latest forms and information?
A: Visit the official Indonesia Immigration website for forms and updates.
13. Summary Table: Key Visa Types and Validity
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity | Extension/Entries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival (VoA) | Tourism | 30 days | Extendable once (30 days) |
| Single Entry Visit Visa (C211A) | Tourism, family, culture | 60 days | Extendable twice (60 days each) |
| Multiple Entry Visit Visa | Frequent visits/digital nomads | 1 year (multiple 60-day stays) | Multiple entries |
| Business Visa (Single/Multiple) | Business | 60 days per visit/1 year | Requires sponsor |
| KITAS (Limited Stay Permit) | Work, retirement, family, etc. | 6 months to 5 years | Renewal required |
| KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) | Permanent residency | Indefinite | Subject to conditions |
Final Takeaways and Next Steps
- Check your eligibility for each visa or permit before applying.
- Gather all required documents and keep them up to date.
- Start your application early to avoid last-minute problems.
- Follow the new hybrid process for visa extensions: online registration plus in-person appointment.
- Stay informed by checking the Indonesia Directorate General of Immigration for official updates.
By following these steps and understanding the latest Indonesian Immigration rules, you can enjoy your time in Bali without stress. If you’re unsure about your situation, reach out to a trusted visa service or contact Indonesian Immigration directly for help.
Learn Today
Visa on Arrival (VoA) → A visa granted at the Indonesian border for 30-day stays, extendable once by 30 days.
KITAS → Limited Stay Permit allowing foreigners to live and work in Indonesia temporarily, requiring sponsorship and activation.
KITAP → Permanent Stay Permit for foreigners meeting residency and legal requirements after holding KITAS several years.
Hybrid Visa Extension → A new procedure combining online registration and in-person biometric verification for visa extensions in Bali.
Immigration Blacklist → A list of individuals barred from entering Indonesia due to overstays or immigration violations.
This Article in a Nutshell
Bali’s immigration rules changed in July 2025, introducing a hybrid visa extension system. Visitors must register online and attend an in-person appointment to extend visas, including VoA and KITAS. Planning ahead and using official resources helps travelers stay compliant with stricter immigration enforcement to enjoy their stay stress-free.
— By VisaVerge.com
