Indonesia has recently implemented significant changes to its Visit Visa extension periods, a move that is expected to have a profound impact on foreign nationals entering the country for pre-investment activities, apprenticeships, government duties, and other business-related activities. These adjustments are designed to facilitate easier and longer stays for those looking to invest, learn, or fulfill government obligations within the Indonesian territory.
Single-Entry Visit Visa holders who are coming to Indonesia to engage in pre-investment activities or apprenticeships are now eligible for an extension of 180 days per request. This is a substantial increase from the previous limit of 60 days per extension and allows for a cumulative stay of up to 12 months. Similarly, individuals entering Indonesia to conduct government duties or to undergo probationary periods for employment can now extend their Visit Visas for 60 days at a time, up from the prior limit of 30 days, with the total duration of stay capped at 12 months.
Furthermore, the policy update benefits Multiple-Entry Visit Visa holders involved in pre-investment activities or government-related duties by allowing them to extend their Visit Visas for up to 180 days (previously 60 days) or 60 days (previously 30 days), respectively, depending on their specific activities. This extension is granted provided that the total duration of their stay does not exceed 12 months. For other regular business activities, the existing rule that permits Visit Visa holders to extend their visa up to two times, in 60-day increments, for a maximum stay of 180 days remains in effect.
Pros:
Single-Entry Visit Visa holders who are coming to Indonesia to engage in pre-investment activities or apprenticeships are now eligible for an extension of 180 days per request. This is a substantial increase from the previous limit of 60 days per extension and allows for a cumulative stay of up to 12 months. Similarly, individuals entering Indonesia to conduct government duties or to undergo probationary periods for employment can now extend their Visit Visas for 60 days at a time, up from the prior limit of 30 days, with the total duration of stay capped at 12 months.
Furthermore, the policy update benefits Multiple-Entry Visit Visa holders involved in pre-investment activities or government-related duties by allowing them to extend their Visit Visas for up to 180 days (previously 60 days) or 60 days (previously 30 days), respectively, depending on their specific activities. This extension is granted provided that the total duration of their stay does not exceed 12 months. For other regular business activities, the existing rule that permits Visit Visa holders to extend their visa up to two times, in 60-day increments, for a maximum stay of 180 days remains in effect.
Pros:
- Extended Stay Duration: The new extension periods significantly increase the time foreign nationals can spend in Indonesia for specific activities, enhancing the ease of conducting in-depth pre-investment research, apprenticeships, and government duties.
- Support for Pre-Investment Activities: By allowing longer stays for pre-investment purposes, Indonesia is positioning itself as a more attractive destination for foreign investors, potentially boosting the country's economic growth.
- Flexibility for Government and Work-related Stays: The updated policy provides greater flexibility for those involved in government duties or undergoing work probationary periods, facilitating smoother operations and transitions for international professionals.
- Complexity and Potential for Confusion: The varying extension periods based on the visa type and purpose of visit might complicate the application process, leading to potential misunderstandings among visa applicants.
- Limited Impact on Regular Business Activities: The extension benefits are tailored to specific activities, leaving those in Indonesia for regular business activities without enhanced extension options beyond the current maximum of 180 days.