Exploring the cultural richness and natural beauty of Indonesia is an exhilarating experience for any traveler. But before you embark on your adventure, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Indonesian immigration law.
Here are 10 key points you need to know about Indonesian immigration law.
1. Valid Travel Documents
The cornerstone of international travel is the possession of valid travel documents. As per Indonesian immigration law, anyone entering or leaving Indonesia must have up-to-date travel documents. This not only includes your passport but also any visas, residence permits, or other necessary legal documents.
Remember, incomplete or invalid documentation can lead to denial of entry or exit. So ensure all your documents are in order and within their validity period.
2. Passport Validity
To enter Indonesia, your passport must have at least two blank pages and at least six months of validity remaining from your arrival date. This requirement is standard practice in many countries and is a measure to prevent travelers from getting stranded due to expired passports.
So, well before you depart for Indonesia, confirm that your passport meets this requirement to avoid complications at the immigration desk. If your passport does not meet these requirements, you will be denied entry into Indonesia.
3. Indonesian Immigration Law UU6-2011
The heart of the Indonesian immigration system is the UU6-2011 law. This law comprehensively outlines the rules and regulations governing entry to and exit from the country.
It covers various aspects of immigration like the types of visas. This includes everything from tourist and business visas to long-term stay visas. Each with its own application procedure and validity period.
The law also elucidates the concept of residency. It helps to distinguish between temporary and permanent residency and explains the rights and obligations of each.
It also offers insight into the scenarios that might lead to deportations, penalties for violations, and the associated legal proceedings.
By familiarizing yourself with this law, you’ll gain a better understanding of what is expected of you as a visitor to Indonesia.
4. Work Permit Regulations
If you’re considering working in Indonesia, be aware that doing so without a valid work permit is against the law. Working illegally can result in severe sanctions, such as hefty fines or even deportation. To legally work in Indonesia, you must first obtain a work permit (IMTA), which involves an application process and certain eligibility requirements. This is a critical step to securing gainful employment in Indonesia, and skipping it can lead to severe legal trouble.
5. Overstaying Visa Penalties
Overstaying your visa is a serious offense in Indonesia. As of April 2020, the penalty for overstaying is a fine of 1 million Indonesian rupiahs for each day beyond your visa limit. That will be about $70 USD per day.
Continued overstays can also lead to detention and eventual deportation. Therefore, it’s vital to be mindful of the dates and terms of your visa and to plan your stay in Indonesia accordingly.
6. Narcotics Penalties
The penalties for narcotics offenses in Indonesia are severe. If you’re found guilty of possessing illegal narcotics, you could face up to four years in prison. More serious offenses, like trafficking, often result in a death sentence. These stringent penalties underline the seriousness with which Indonesia tackles drug offenses, so it’s absolutely crucial to respect these laws.
7. Strict Anti-Drug Laws
In fact, Indonesia has one of the world’s strictest anti-drug laws. Indonesian authorities enforce these laws rigorously, and drug-related offenses are investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent. The strict stance on drugs aims to deter potential offenders and maintain public safety. As a visitor, understanding and respecting this aspect of Indonesian law is not only a matter of legal compliance but also a matter of personal safety.
8. Visa Policies
Indonesia’s visa policy offers flexibility to visitors from various countries. As of April 2020, citizens of some countries are issued a free 30-day stamp upon arrival. Others can opt to pay for a Visa-on-Arrival (VOA), which can be extended for another 30 days. VOA is available for international travel, and travelers must satisfy all requirements for vaccination.
This visa system is designed to facilitate easy travel to Indonesia. However, it’s important to verify the specific visa requirements and options for your country of origin before you travel. It will depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
9. Health Screening
In response to global health concerns and pandemic outbreaks, the Indonesian government conducts health screenings for incoming passengers. This procedure may involve temperature checks, health questionnaires, or even mandatory testing, depending on the current health advisories. Keeping up-to-date with health alerts and being prepared for these screenings can help ensure a smooth entry process.
10. Dual Nationality Restrictions
Finally, Indonesia does not recognize dual nationality for adults over the age of 18. If you hold dual citizenship, you should enter and exit the country with the same passport to avoid potential legal issues. Also, keep in mind that as an adult, if you possess Indonesian citizenship, you must renounce any other nationalities.
These ten points form a basic but comprehensive guide to Indonesian immigration law, helping to ensure your trip is smooth and free of legal complications. However, immigration laws can change, so it’s always a good idea to check for any updates or changes before your journey. Enjoy your adventure in Indonesia, and remember – being well-informed is the first step to a successful trip!
Simplifying Your Indonesian Immigration Journey
Need help planning your stay in Indonesia? Navigating the process of obtaining a residence or work permit can be challenging due to ever-changing laws, complex regulations, and the potential for unexpected issues.
Don’t fret! CPT Corporate is here to make your journey smoother. We are capable of handling Indonesian immigration services. Everything from consultations, being your representation, and preparing the paperwork. We can help you with getting short-term visas, KITAS (residence permits), IMTA (work permits), and RPTKA (company confirmation for work permit preparation).
Let us take care of the paperwork, so you can focus on your upcoming Indonesian adventure.
