Indonesia is a beautiful country that attracts expatriates from all over the world. If you are planning to move to Indonesia with your spouse or family, you may need to apply for a dependant visa (KITAS). A dependant visa is a type of visa or stay permit that allows family members of foreign workers to live in Indonesia for an extended period.
The dependant visa or KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is issued by the Indonesian Immigration Office for the family members of the holder of the IMTA (work permit) and KITAS (stay permit). The dependant visa is valid for up to two years or the same length as the holder of the primary KITAS. It is a great way for families to stay together while one member works in Indonesia. The visa act as the living permit for your family members.
Eligibility Criteria for Indonesian Dependant Visas
To be eligible for an Indonesian dependant visa, you must be the spouse, child, or parent of a foreigner who is living and working in Indonesia. The main applicant must have a valid work permit or a business visa to be able to apply for a dependant visa for their family member.
In addition to the above, the dependant must provide proof of their relationship with the main applicant. For a spouse, a marriage certificate is required. For children, a birth certificate is needed. Mind you that only children under the age of 17 years old will be eligible to apply for the dependant visa. For parents, a proof of parent-child relationship is required.
Required Documentation and Application Process for Dependant Visas
To apply for an Indonesian dependant visa, you must provide the following documents:
- A valid passport that is valid for the next 18 months.
- A completed application form
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- A marriage certificate or birth certificate, depending on the relationship with the main applicant
- Proof of relationship with the main applicant
- A copy of the primary KITAS holder work permit and stay permit
- Letter of Sponsorship
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application to the Indonesian Immigration Office. The processing time for a dependant visa is usually around four to six weeks.
Steps for Converting a Visit Visa to a Dependant Visa in Indonesia
To convert a visit visa such as the Tourism Visa or the B211A Business Visa to a Dependant Visa in Indonesia, you need to take the following steps. Firstly, get a sponsor letter from the main applicant’s employer stating they will sponsor your visa. Secondly, get a marriage certificate or birth certificate depending on your relationship with the main applicant. Next, apply for a dependant visa at the Indonesian Immigration Office and pay the necessary fees. Finally, wait for the visa to be processed. Please note that it’s not possible to convert a tourist visa or a B211A Business visa to a dependant visa within Indonesia. You must first leave the country and apply for a dependant visa from your home country or a country where you have legal residency.
Common Challenges and Solutions in Obtaining a Dependant Visa
Obtaining a dependant visa in Indonesia can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the process. Some common challenges include:
1. Language barriers
The application process can be challenging if you do not speak Indonesian. Consider hiring a translator or working with a visa agency that can help you with the application process.
2. Incomplete documentation
Missing or incomplete documents can cause delays in the visa application process. Make sure to carefully review the requirements and provide all necessary documents.
3. Long processing times
The visa application process can take up to six weeks. Plan ahead and submit your application well in advance of your travel dates.
4. Visa rejection
Visa rejections are rare but can happen. If your visa is rejected, you can appeal the decision or reapply with additional documentation.
Tips for a Smooth and Stress-Free Dependant Visa Application Experience
1. Plan ahead
Give yourself plenty of time to gather all the required documents and submit your application well in advance of your travel dates. Remember that the visa processing time can take up to six weeks.
2. Work with a visa agency
Consider working with a visa agency that specializes in Indonesian visas. They can help guide you through the application process, ensure you have all the necessary documents, and communicate with the Indonesian Immigration Office on your behalf.
3. Get organized
Create a checklist of all the required documents and make sure you have everything before submitting your application. This will help avoid any delays or issues during the visa processing time.
4. Be patient
The visa application process can be lengthy and frustrating at times, but it’s important to remain patient and calm. Avoid getting frustrated and remember that the Indonesian Immigration Office is doing its best to process your application as quickly as possible.
Smooth line the process for your loved ones to stay with you in the country with Seven Stones Indonesia!
If you are planning to apply for a dependant visa in Indonesia, consider choosing Seven Stones Indonesia Immigration Services. Our team of experienced visa agents can guide you through the entire process, from gathering the necessary documents to submitting your application and communicating with the Indonesian Immigration Office on your behalf. Contact us today at hello@sevenstonesindonesia.com to learn more about our services and how we can help you obtain your dependant visa stress-free.
