Guide to the Indonesia Business Visa for Foreigners 2023

Source: Freepik

Although Indonesia is widely recognized as a popular tourist destination, its robust economy and innovative markets present diverse opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. A remarkable aspect of Indonesia is its ability to provide an optimal environment for both work and leisure.

For those who are not Indonesian but are considering a visit for business-related purposes, obtaining a business visa might be necessary. 

While this may seem complex, this comprehensive guide aims to elucidate the various types of business visas available in Indonesia and provides a step-by-step application process.

 

What is a Business Visa?

A business visa is categorized as a visit visa, specifically designed for foreigners who intend to extend their stay in the country for purposes such as market research, meetings with potential distributors or suppliers, establishment of a representative office, participation in conferences or seminars, and engagement in other business-related activities.

It is important to note that a business visa does not function as a work permit, and therefore, it does not authorize the visa holder to engage in any form of employment that involves compensation. Consequently, it is not permissible to use this visa to seek or accept job offers.

However, in comparison to obtaining a work permit, the process of acquiring an Indonesian business visa is notably simpler and faster.

 

Types of Business Visas

For those planning to visit Indonesia for business, there are three primary types of visas:

 

Visa on Arrival (VoA) 

Visa on Arrival (VOA) applicable for stays less than 30 days, with an option for a one-time 30-day extension at an Indonesian Immigration Office. Requirements include a passport with at least six months of validity and a return ticket.

 

Single-Entry Business Visa 

The single-entry business visa for Indonesia permits a maximum stay of 60 days within the country. It’s important to note that re-entry on the same visa after leaving is not allowed.

Should you require an extension beyond the 60 days, you must apply for a visa extension at an immigration office.

 

Multiple-Entry Business Visa 

A multiple-entry business visa is valid for one year, granting the flexibility to enter Indonesia multiple times, with each entry allowing a stay of up to 60 days.

For those holding a multiple-entry Indonesia Business Visa, the company or organization to be visited in Indonesia is required to seek a Letter of Visa Authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Jakarta.

If you enter Indonesia using the Visa Waiver Program or through an Indonesia Business Visa on Arrival, you are entitled to a maximum stay of 30 days.

 

Read More: Work Permit in Indonesia: Essential Formalities You Need to Know

 

Difference between Single & Multiple Entry Visa Indonesia

Types of Indonesia Business Visa
Source: Abhitech

 

Advantages of a Business Visa

The Indonesian Business Visa offers a range of benefits that streamline businessmen’s travel experience. Here are some advantages in comparison to other visa options:

  • Efficient and straightforward application process
  • Cost-effective alternative to a work permit
  • Allows a maximum stay of 60 days per visit to Indonesia
  • Extensions can be obtained by exiting Indonesia within 60 days and re-entering (crossing borders), or by applying for and obtaining a visa extension from the Indonesian Immigration Authority
  • Valid for a duration of 1 year
  • Suitable for frequent travelers to Indonesia who do not intend to generate income

 

 

Who Needs a Business Visa?

An Indonesia Business Visa is necessary under the following circumstances:

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  • Your nationality is not included in the list of countries eligible for visa-free entry to Indonesia. Some countries’ citizens can visit Indonesia without a visa for up to 30 days. However, if your nationality is not included in this list, obtaining an Indonesia Business Visa is mandatory.
  • Your intended stay in Indonesia exceeds 30 days. Even if you belong to a “visa-exempt” country, if your stay duration in Indonesia surpasses 30 days, applying for a visa is obligatory.

 

Documents for Indonesia Business Visa Application

When submitting an application for an Indonesian Business Visa, it’s essential to provide a comprehensive set of standard visa documents, as well as any additional materials specified by the Embassy/Consulate. The requisite documents include:

  • A duly completed and signed Indonesia Visa Application Form, obtainable from the Embassy/Consulate website or their physical offices, as per availability.
  • A passport with a validity of at least 6 months beyond your intended entry into Indonesia.
  • A copy of your passport.
  • A passport-sized photograph adhering to the stipulated requirements. 
  • A copy of your round-trip or onward travel ticket.
  • Evidence demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to support yourself during your stay (such as recent bank statements).
  • A Business Visa Cover Letter issued by your employing company, organization, or institution in your home country. The letter, printed on official company letterhead, must encompass the following details:
    • Full contact information of the company/organization/institution.
    • Requested duration and entries for the visa.
  • A formal Letter of Invitation from the company, organization, or institution you are planning to visit in Indonesia. Similar to the Cover Letter, this invitation should be presented on official letterhead and should encompass the following specifics:
    • Full contact information of the company/organization/institution.
    • Requested duration and entries for the visa.
    • Clarification of their responsibility regarding your accommodation and maintenance costs, if applicable.
  • Confirmation of the Indonesia visa fee payment.
  • For applicants seeking a multiple-entry Business Visa: A Letter of Visa Authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Indonesia. This authorization must be procured by your Indonesian sponsor on your behalf.
  • For applications submitted by mail: An included pre-paid self-addressed return envelope, affixed with appropriate postage. This envelope will be utilized by the Embassy/Consulate to return your passport and documents post-visa processing.
  • For non-residents of their respective residing country: A copy of your valid Residence Permit/Visa.
  • While not mandatory, travel insurance covering the entirety of your trip to Indonesia is strongly recommended by authorities.

 

Read more: Employer of Record – Complete Guide To Establish Business in Indonesia

 

How to Apply for an Indonesia Business Visa?

To apply for an Indonesian Business Visa, you need to visit an Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia, the list of which is available here. 

  • Contact the respective Embassy or Consulate to understand their specific submission requirements. Some may require you to schedule an appointment, while others may allow you to submit the application via mail.
  • Gather the necessary documents for your Indonesia business visa application.
  • Pay the applicable visa fee.
  • Submit your documents to the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate, or send them via mail/courier.
  • Await processing of your visa application by the Embassy/Consulate.
  • In case you are seeking a multiple-entry business visa for Indonesia: You must have a sponsor (the inviting company) that needs to obtain a Letter of Visa Authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Jakarta.
  • Once the Embassy/Consulate makes a decision, you will likely be notified to retrieve your passport and documents. If you have applied by mail/courier, the documents will be sent back to you in the same manner.

 

Visa on Arrival for Business Purposes

The Indonesia Visa on Arrival is an option available to citizens of selected countries. If you belong to one of the eligible nations and intend to travel for business-related reasons, you can obtain an Indonesia business visa on arrival upon your arrival at the airport.

This particular visa grants a maximum stay of 30 days, with the possibility of extending it for an additional 30 days before its expiration.

If your nationality is not on the list of countries eligible for Visa On Arrival, you must follow the standard application procedure at an Indonesian Embassy or Consulate.

 

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Business Visa Fees

The fees for various Indonesian visas are outlined as follows:

  • Single-entry Business Visa: USD 50
  • Multiple-entry Business Visa: USD 100
  • Limited Stay Visa:
    • Six months: USD 50
    • One year: USD 90
    • Two years: USD 160
    • Visa on Arrival: USD 35

 

Is Employment Allowed with a Business Visa?

Work Permit in Indonesia
Source: Freepik

With an Indonesia business visa, engaging in employment or receiving a salary from an Indonesian company is prohibited. Activities related to business, such as attending meetings or seminars, participating in or conducting training or workshops, carrying out inspections, etc., are acceptable as long as formal employment within Indonesia is not involved.

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Should you aspire to work in Indonesia, an Indonesian Work Permit is required.

 

 

Read more: Choosing The Right Employer of Record Service in Indonesia

 

Let Abhitech Help Your Business Visa Application in Indonesia

Should you encounter challenges or lack knowledge during the Work Permit and Foreign Worker Visa application process, do not hesitate to reach out to Abhitech.

Abhitech offers comprehensive EOR services in Indonesia, serving as a trusted and experienced formality service provider committed to delivering optimal and efficient services to fulfill your needs for Foreign Work Permits, Visas, KITAS, KITAP, and other immigration-related documents.

Contact Abhitech to secure your work visa & Setup your own Indonesia company with us!

Abhitech’s objective is to streamline the process of applying for a business visa in Indonesia, and we offer the following services to achieve this goal:

  1. We provide dedicated business consultants who will expertly navigate you through the entire application process, minimizing the likelihood of errors that could lead to delays or even rejection.
  2. Abhitech can act as your sponsor for the Indonesian business visa, simplifying the application procedure.
  3. We assist your sponsor or guarantor in assembling and submitting the necessary documentation.
  4. Our team ensures prompt processing of your sponsor’s application, recognizing that the immigration office has a daily limit on visa approvals.
  5. Abhitech expedites the acquisition of a multiple-entry Indonesian business visa, saving you valuable time.

For further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us by completing the form here.

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