Permanent residency in Indonesia is a status that allows a foreign national to reside in the country indefinitely. The Indonesian government offers several types of permanent residency permits, each designed to meet the specific needs and circumstances of foreign nationals.
One of the main types of permanent residency in Indonesia is the Kartu Izin Tinggal Tetap (KITAP). This permit is issued to foreign nationals who have been living in Indonesia for an extended period of time and have met the eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria for KITAP vary depending on the type of residency but typically include being married to an Indonesian citizen, making a significant investment in the country, or having a specialized skill set that is in demand in Indonesia.
If you have lived in Indonesia for 5 years under the same KITAS (A Temporary Stay Permit) sponsor you are eligible to apply for a permanent resident called KITAP (A Permanent Residence Permit). Learn more about the things you need to know regarding permanent residency in Indonesia.
What is a Permanent Residence Permit (KITAP)?
A Permanent Residence Permit (KITAP) is a legal document issued by the Indonesian government that allows a foreign national to reside in the country on a long-term basis. With a KITAP, the holder has the right to live and work in Indonesia indefinitely and can enter and exit the country multiple times without the need to apply for a new visa.
The KITAP is considered to be the highest level of immigration status in Indonesia, as it grants the holder many of the same rights and responsibilities as Indonesian citizens.
It’s also important to note that obtaining a KITAP can be a long and complicated process, and it’s recommended to consult with a professional immigration lawyer or agent.
Types of KITAP
In Indonesia, KITAP stands for Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas, which is a limited stay permit card. There are several types of KITAP in Indonesia, including:
- KITAP for marriage to an Indonesian citizen
- KITAP for retiree
- KITAP for investment
- KITAP for skilled workers (only for President Director position)
- KITAP for religious and cultural activities
Note that the type of KITAP issued to an individual depends on the specific circumstances and reason for their stay in Indonesia.
What does it mean to have your permanent stay visa (KITAP)?
Holders of a KITAP are considered to have the same rights and responsibilities as Indonesian citizens, with the exception of being unable to vote or hold certain government positions.
With a KITAP, you can stay in Indonesia as long as you want and you do not need to renew it like KITAS (temporary stay permit) which is required to be renewed annually. As long as the KITAP remains valid, only the MERP (Multiple Entry Permit) needs to be extended, either annually or every two years, based on the decision made by Immigration. It also allows you to open a bank account, purchase property, and start a business in Indonesia.
It’s important to note that the privileges of a KITAP holder can change over time, and that it is best to check with the Indonesian government for the most up-to-date information.
Read More: A Guide to Indonesian Dependant Visa (KITAS)
Benefits of Being a Permanent Resident in Indonesia
There are several benefits to obtaining permanent residency in Indonesia. For example, KITAP holders are eligible for a tax ID number, which allows them to open bank accounts and own property in Indonesia. They are also allowed to work and engage in business activities in the country, and they are not required to obtain a visa or re-enter the country every year, as is the case with a KITAS. Additionally, KITAP holders are eligible for certain benefits provided by the Indonesian government, such as access to healthcare and education.
As a permanent resident in Indonesia, you may have access to the following benefits:
- Ability to live and work in the country without the need for a visa or work permit
- Access to public healthcare and other social services
- Ability to purchase property and invest in businesses
- Eligibility for certain government jobs
- Possibility of sponsorship for family members to also obtain permanent residency
- Ability to apply for Indonesian citizenship after a certain period of time.
Who Can Obtain a KITAP / ITAP?
Not all foreign nationals are eligible to obtain a KITAP (Permanent Residence Permit) in Indonesia. The specific requirements for obtaining a KITAP can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and the requirements set by the Indonesian government, but generally, an individual must meet the following criteria:
- Have a valid KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit)
- Show evidence of financial stability and the ability to support oneself
- Have a clean criminal record
- Have a valid passport
- Have a sponsor in Indonesia (such as a spouse, parent, or child who is a Indonesian citizen)
- Meet certain educational or professional qualifications, as determined by the Indonesian government
- Have lived in Indonesia for a certain period of time, usually around 5 years
How to obtain your Permanent Stay Permit (ITAP)
To obtain a Permanent Stay Permit (ITAP) in Indonesia, an individual must follow a specific process and meet certain requirements set by the Indonesian government. The general process for obtaining an ITAP includes:
- Gather required documents: This includes a valid passport, recent photographs, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), police clearance certificate, and a letter of recommendation from your sponsor (if applicable).
- Apply for a KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit): Before applying for an ITAP, an individual must first have a valid KITAS. The process for obtaining a KITAS will vary depending on the individual’s circumstances but generally involves submitting the required documents and paying a fee.
- Apply for an ITAP: After obtaining a KITAS, an individual can apply for an ITAP. This involves submitting the required documents, including the KITAS, and paying a fee. The immigration office will then review the application and make a decision.
- Register with the local government: After the ITAP is approved, the individual must register with the local government and obtain a local ID card (KTP).
- Renewal: A Multiple Entry Permit (MERP) must be renewed every one or two years and The ITAP must be renewed every 5 years.
Permanent residency in Indonesia offers numerous benefits to foreign nationals, including the ability to live and work in the country indefinitely, access to certain government benefits, and the ability to own property and engage in business activities. However, the process of obtaining permanent residency can be complex, and it is important to understand the eligibility criteria and requirements for each type of residency.
Read More: How to Choose a Trustworthy Visa Agent in Bali
How Seven Stones Indonesia Can Assist with Permanent Residency (KITAP) Application
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