For foreigners who would like to reside in Indonesia for more than a year, short-term Indonesia visas are not very convenient when it comes to their sustainability. With a Single Entry Visa, it’s even likely impossible to stay more than the period of 180 days, while it’s possible with a Multiple Entry Visa, despite being required to leave the country every 60 days.
The utilisation of longer Stay Permit, like Limited Stay Permit and Permanent Stay Permit, may be an ideal solution for foreigners seeking an extended and more sustainable stay in Indonesia.
Izin Tinggal Terbatas Untuk Orang Asing (ITAS): Indonesia Temporary Stay Permit
ITAS (Izin Tinggal Terbatas), or translated as Limited Stay Permit in Indonesia, is a temporary stay permit that enables the holder to stay in Indonesia for a certain amount of time. ITAS holders are entitled to receive a physical card which is commonly known as a KITAS. This specific permit is usually issued to foreigners coming to Indonesia to conduct short-term business or other activities that will be completed in a relatively short time.
ITAS vs KITAS: What are the differences?
Both terms are often used interchangeably, but technically, they refer to different parts of the same permit process.
- ITAS (Izin Tinggal Terbatas) refers to the actual residency status granted by Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration.
- KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is the physical Limited Stay Permit Card, which serves as proof of your stay authorisation. All ITAS holders are entitled to the physical card (if necessary).
In short, the ITAS is your legal permit, while the KITAS is the document that proves it.
Who is eligible for ITAS?
An ITAS is available to foreigners who intend to stay in Indonesia for 1 year to 2 years, depending on the visa type. Eligible applicants include:
- Professionals employed by Indonesian or foreign-owned companies.
- Investors or company shareholders in an Indonesian legal entity (PT PMA).
- Foreign spouses of Indonesian citizens.
- Dependents of ITAS/KITAS holders.
- Retirees aged 55 and above.
- Researchers or repatriated Indonesians returning from abroad.
Each category comes with its own sponsorship and documentation requirements.
General Document Requirements to apply for Indonesian ITAS
While the specific paperwork varies by visa type, most applicants will need to prepare:
- A valid passport (minimum validity 18 months for a 2-year ITAS).
- A sponsor letter from an Indonesian entity or individual.
- Proof of financial stability and health insurance coverage.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Police clearance certificate (for work or investor ITAS).
- Relevant supporting documents (marriage certificate, company deed, or retirement documents).
All documents in foreign languages must be translated into Bahasa Indonesia by a sworn translator.
Application Process
Secure the right visa pre-approval (VITAS)
Every ITAS begins with a Limited Stay Visa (VITAS), applied through Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration or an authorised sponsor (such as an employer or spouse).
Prepare all required documentation
These typically include your passport (valid for at least 18 months), sponsor letter, proof of funds, recent photographs, and the relevant company or family documents.
Submit through the Online Immigration System
Applications are processed officially through the Direktorat Jenderal Imigrasi online platform. Once approved, the electronic visa (e-Visa) will be issued for your entry into Indonesia.
Convert your VITAS into ITAS upon arrival
Within 30 days of entry, you must visit your local immigration office to convert your VITAS into an ITAS. Your biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) will be recorded, and you’ll receive your electronic KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas), the physical proof of your stay permit.
Register your address and report to local authorities
Foreign residents must report their place of residence to the local Civil Registry Office (Catatan Sipil) within 14 days to ensure full compliance.
Types of ITAS in Indonesia
Different lifestyles and purposes of stay call for different types of ITAS. Here are the most common ones:
Investor ITAS
Intended for foreign investors who invest and own shares in a PT PMA (foreign-owned company). Following BKPM Regulation No. 5 of 2025, the minimum paid-up capital requirement for foreign companies is IDR 2.5 billion, with an individual shareholding of at least IDR 1 billion. This ITAS allows investors to reside and manage their businesses in Indonesia for up to two years, extendable without the need for a separate work permit.
Work ITAS
For expatriates employed by an Indonesian company. Employers must first obtain a Foreign Manpower Utilisation Plan (RPTKA) approval before sponsorship. Valid for 6–12 months and extendable, this ITAS authorises the holder to legally work and reside in Indonesia for the duration of their contract.
Spouse ITAS
Granted to foreigners legally married to Indonesian citizens. The permit is valid for one year and renewable, allowing holders to live in Indonesia and apply for permanent residency (KITAP) after two consecutive years. Holders may not work formally unless they convert to a work-eligible status.
Dependent ITAS
For spouses and children under 18 of a valid ITAS or KITAP holder. Dependents cannot engage in employment but can reside in Indonesia as long as the main permit remains valid.
Retirement ITAS
Open to foreigners aged 55 and above who can demonstrate financial stability (minimum monthly income of USD 1,500), valid health insurance, and a long-term lease in Indonesia. Valid for one year and renewable annually, this visa allows multiple re-entries.
Repatriation ITAS
For former Indonesian citizens (ex-WNI) or those of Indonesian descent returning to settle permanently. It serves as a transitional permit before applying for a permanent stay permit (KITAP) and is typically valid for one year.
Research ITAS
Designed for foreign researchers or academics working with Indonesian institutions under the Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Technology (BRIN). The ITAS is valid for 6 months to 2 years, depending on project duration and sponsorship.
Common Questions
What is KITAP / ITAP?
KITAP (Kartu Izin Tinggal Tetap) or ITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) is the next step after holding an ITAS for a certain period (typically three consecutive years). It grants long-term residency rights for up to five years and simplifies future extensions and re-entry permits.
Can I Apply for an ITAS Online?
Yes. Since 2022, Indonesia has transitioned to an electronic immigration system. All ITAS applications, renewals, and sponsor submissions are conducted through the Online Visa Approval (e-Visa) platform.
Can I Work in Indonesia with an ITAS?
Only certain types of ITAS, namely: Work Visa ITAS and Investor ITAS, permit holders to work legally. Holders of Spouse, Dependent, or Retirement ITAS are not allowed to engage in employment unless they change their visa type and secure a valid work permit through a sponsoring employer.
Why do you need a professional consultant to help getting your ITAS?
Although Indonesia’s immigration system has become increasingly digital, obtaining an ITAS (Limited Stay Permit) can still be complex. The process involves multiple steps, and each governed by strict regulations that are regularly updated.
Trusting LMI Consultancy as your partner provides clarity and assurance. Our expert team offers end-to-end assistance, from visa application to renewal, ensuring full legal compliance and seamless coordination with immigration authorities.
With hundreds of successful ITAS applications managed annually, our professional consultants are ready to assist investors, professionals, and families secure their legal residency efficiently, saving valuable time and protecting clients from unnecessary administrative risks.
