An Overview of the Bali Investor Visa (KITAS Investor Visa)
The Indonesia Investor Visa, also known as the Investor KITAS, offers a unique opportunity for foreign investors to live and do business in Bali and other regions of Indonesia. Officially referred to as the Investor KITAS (Index 313 for a 1-year visa or Index 314 for a 2-year visa), this visa is issued by the Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Law and Human Rights of Indonesia.
The visa is specifically designed for foreigners who wish to invest in a company or set up a business in Indonesia. Investors are allowed to reside in Indonesia and engage in business activities, making this an attractive option for entrepreneurs seeking to develop commercial ventures in Bali. Unlike other types of KITAS visas, the Investor KITAS does not require the holder to pay local employment taxes.
To qualify, investors must meet certain conditions, including a minimum investment requirement and ownership in an Indonesian-based company. The visa allows for long-term residency and is renewable, offering flexibility for those looking to establish and grow their businesses in Bali.
A Background of the Investor Visa in Indonesia
The Investor Visa has become an increasingly popular choice for foreigners looking to invest in Indonesia’s growing economy, particularly in regions like Bali where tourism and hospitality industries thrive. Issued by the Immigration Department (Imigrasi), the visa was introduced to attract foreign capital and promote local business development.
The Investor KITAS allows foreign investors to actively manage their businesses or investments in Indonesia without requiring a work permit, as long as the applicant meets the necessary investment criteria. This visa reflects Indonesia’s efforts to encourage foreign investments while offering investors the chance to reside in the country long-term.
What are the requirements for the Investor Visa in Bali?
To apply for the Indonesia Investor Visa, applicants must meet specific requirements. Below is a summary of what’s needed:
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Requirements:
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Company Ownership: You must be an owner or shareholder of an Indonesian company (PT PMA) with an investment of at least IDR 10 billion (~$670,000 USD).
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Position in the Company: You must hold a key position in the company, such as a director or commissioner.
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Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 18 months for a 1-year visa (Index 313) and 30 months for a 2-year visa (Index 314).
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Capital Investment: Your company must meet a minimum capital investment of IDR 2.5 billion (~$170,000 USD) in shares under your name.
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Business Licenses: The company must have all the relevant business licenses and approvals from Indonesian authorities, such as the Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM).
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No Local Employment: While you are allowed to manage and invest in your business, working as an employee for another company in Indonesia is not allowed under this visa.
What is the process to apply for the Investor Visa?
The application process for the Indonesia Investor Visa in Bali involves several steps and can be completed with the assistance of a visa agent or directly through Indonesia’s government portals. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Document Preparation
You’ll need to prepare the following documents:
• A passport-sized photo.
• A copy of your passport (valid for at least 18 or 30 months depending on your visa length).
• A copy of the company’s legal documents, such as the deed of establishment, company registration, and business licenses.
• Proof of your shareholding in the company and evidence of the company’s capital investment.
• Bank statements showing your financial standing and the company’s investment records.
Submission through the Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM)
• Before applying for the visa, you’ll need to secure a recommendation from the Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM). This approval verifies that your investment meets the minimum requirements set by the government.
• Once approved by BKPM, you can proceed with the visa application through the Directorate General of Immigration’s portal or work with a registered visa agent.
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Apply for the KITAS Investor Visa
• Submit your documents online through the Indonesian Immigration Portal or via your visa agent. Make sure that all documents are complete and correctly translated into Bahasa Indonesia or English.
• After submission, pay the required visa processing fee, which typically ranges from $300 to $400 USD depending on the visa duration (1-year or 2-year).
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Processing Time
• Processing usually takes between one to two weeks, depending on the volume of applications. During this time, the Indonesian Immigration Office will review your documents and BKPM approval.
• You can track the status of your application through the immigration portal.
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Enter Indonesia and Apply for KITAS
Once your visa is approved, you’ll need to enter Indonesia within 90 days. Upon arrival, you must apply for the Investor KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit), which grants you residency and must be renewed according to the duration of your visa (1 or 2 years).
Who is eligible to apply for the Investor Visa?
Citizens from most countries are eligible to apply for Indonesia’s Investor Visa, except for individuals from countries that have restrictions, including Afghanistan, Cameroon, Guinea, Israel, Kosovo, Liberia, Nigeria, North Korea, and Somalia.
Can I work or open a business on the Investor Visa in Bali?
Yes, the Investor Visa allows you to open and manage your own business in Bali or other parts of Indonesia. As an investor, you can actively engage in running your business without the need for a work permit, as long as the business is registered under a PT PMA (foreign investment company).
However, you are not allowed to take on employment outside of your own business or work for another company in Indonesia under this visa. If you wish to be employed in a different company, a separate work visa would be required.
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The Investor Visa provides the legal framework for foreign entrepreneurs to not only live in Bali but also participate in and contribute to the local economy.
