Long-term stay in Indonesia for US citizens
The VOA allows a maximum of 60 days. For longer stays, options include the C1 Social/Cultural visa (up to 180 days), KITAS work permit, retirement KITAS for those 55+, and the Second Home Visa for 5–10 years.
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| VOA maximum | 60 days |
| C1 Social/Cultural visa | Up to 60 days per entry, extendable to 180 days |
| KITAS (work) | 1–2 years, employer-sponsored |
| Retirement KITAS | 1 year renewable, age 55+ |
| Second Home Visa | 5 or 10 years, IDR 2 billion deposit required |
Note: Indonesia does not have a dedicated digital nomad visa. Remote workers typically use the VOA for short stays or the Second Home Visa for longer residency.
Long-stay options for US citizens
C1 Social/Cultural visa (B211A)
The C1 visit visa (also known as B211A) is suitable for US citizens who want to stay in Indonesia longer than the VOA allows. It is valid for 60 days per entry and can be extended up to 4 times at a local immigration office, giving a potential total stay of up to 180 days (approximately 6 months). A sponsor in Indonesia is required — typically a travel agent, school, organization, or individual Indonesian citizen. Apply at an Indonesian consulate or embassy in the US before arrival, or through a licensed Indonesian visa agent.
KITAS — employer-sponsored work permit
The KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is a limited stay permit for foreigners working in Indonesia. Your Indonesian employer must first obtain a work permit (IMTA) from the Ministry of Manpower on your behalf. Once approved, the KITAS is issued by the Immigration Department. Valid for 1–2 years and renewable. Holders can live and work legally in Indonesia for the duration of their permit. The KITAS also allows multiple entries without a separate visa.
Retirement KITAS
Available to foreign nationals aged 55 and over. Requirements include: proof of retirement income or pension of at least USD 1,500 per month, comprehensive health insurance, a sponsor (typically a licensed retirement visa agency or a registered Indonesian company), and proof of no intention to work in Indonesia. Valid for 1 year, renewable up to 5 times (maximum 5 years). After the maximum period, holders must leave Indonesia.
Second Home Visa (E28A)
Introduced in 2022, the Second Home Visa allows stays of 5 or 10 years. Requirements: deposit a minimum of IDR 2 billion (approximately USD 130,000) in a designated Indonesian state bank (such as BNI, BRI, or Mandiri) and maintain the balance throughout the visa period. Does not provide work rights. Suitable for retirees, investors, and long-term residents who do not need to work. Apply through the Indonesian Immigration Department or a licensed agent.
Student visa (C1 study)
US citizens enrolled at a recognized Indonesian educational institution can apply for a student stay permit. Your institution must sponsor the application. Valid for the duration of your study program and renewable annually.
C1 Social/Cultural visa — step by step
- 1
Find a licensed Indonesian sponsor — this can be a travel agency, language school, organization, or individual Indonesian citizen willing to act as your guarantor.
- 2
Your sponsor submits a sponsorship letter and supporting documents to the local Immigration Management Department in Indonesia.
- 3
Once approved, the Immigration Department issues a telex visa (electronic approval). Your sponsor sends you the telex visa reference number.
- 4
Take the telex visa reference number to the nearest Indonesian consulate or embassy in the US and apply for your C1 visa.
- 5
Travel to Indonesia on your C1 visa. On arrival you receive a 60-day stamp.
- 6
Before your 60 days expire, apply for your first 30-day extension at the local immigration office. Extensions must be done in person since June 2025.
- 7
Up to 4 extensions are possible, giving a potential maximum stay of 180 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Information compiled from official government sources and verified data: