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Andi Refandi
Andi serves as a Senior Account Executive on Emerhub’s global team.
For expatriates, foreign business professionals, and investors looking to set up a business in Bali, understanding visa and KITAS regulations is crucial. Get it right, and you’re in for smooth sailing. Get it wrong, and you could face fines, deportation, or even a ban on re-entry.
In this article, we will guide you through the do’s and don’ts regarding visa regulations when operating your business in Bali. As there will be changes soon in Indonesian immigration laws, Emerhub will keep you updated on the latest developments in 2024 and beyond.
Visas in Bali
Setting up and operating a business in Bali requires understanding the various types of visas and KITAS (Limited Stay Permits) available for expatriates, foreign business professionals, and investors.
Each visa type serves different purposes, depending on the nature of your business activities and the length of your stay.
Emerhub can assist you in selecting and obtaining the appropriate permits to ensure compliance and smooth business operations in Bali.
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Do’s:
Stricly Leisure Purposes: The Visa on Arrival (VOA) is perfect for tourists and short-term visitors. Use it to enjoy Bali’s stunning beaches and delicious cuisine without the hassle of lengthy paperwork.
Don’ts:
No Business Activities: Thinking about mixing business with pleasure? Think again. The VOA does not cover business activities. This means no attending meetings, no negotiating contracts, and definitely no hands-on work.
If you plan to meet potential clients during your vacation in Bali, realize that using your VOA for business activities could lead to penalties, so you should postpone your meetings.
E-VOA and VOA Extension
Need to extend your stay?
If you fall in love with Bali and decide to extend your stay, you can reach out to Emerhub and extend your VOA in just a week, allowing you more time to explore the island.
While the process takes about 2 weeks, Emerhub can help expedite your VOA extension in just 7 business days.
Short-Term Business Visa (Single Entry Business Visa – B211A)
Do’s:
Business Visits: Got business on your mind? The Single Entry Business Visa (B211A) is what you need. It’s ideal for attending meetings, exploring business opportunities, and representing your company at conferences or trade shows.
Don’ts:
No Day-to-Day Operations: Hands-on work or managing day-to-day operations? Not allowed. This visa is for strategic business activities only. Managing employees or direct involvement in daily operations requires a different visa category, the Work KITAS. Keep it high-level and you’re good to go.
You can visit Bali to oversee a new project’s launch but have to avoid direct management of the team to comply with your B211A visa requirements.
Documentation and Application Process for Short-Term Visa
To apply for a Short-Term Business Visa, you’ll need:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity.
- A completed visa application form.
- A letter of invitation from a company in Indonesia.
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- Payment of the visa fee.
The processing time typically ranges from 3 to 10 business days.
Emerhub can assist you with preparing and submitting your application to ensure it meets all requirements.
Investor KITAS
Do’s:
Oversee Investments: Investors, this one’s for you. The Investor KITAS lets you stay in Bali for an extended period. This visa gives you the freedom to attend meetings, scout business prospects, visit partners, and inspect factories.
Imagine you’re an investor who needs to visit a factory to ensure it’s operating. With an Investor KITAS, you can make these visits and plan your next business moves without violating Indonesian immigration laws.
Don’ts:
No Managerial Role: Thinking of taking on a managerial role or drawing a salary? That’s a no-go. The Investor KITAS restricts you from being on the company payroll or handling day-to-day operations.
Documentation and Application Process for Investor Visa
To apply for an Investor KITAS, you’ll need:
- A valid passport with at least 18 months of validity.
- A completed KITAS application form.
- An investment license issued by the Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM).
- Company registration documents.
- Proof of investment in an Indonesian company.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- Payment of the visa fee.
You can apply through Emerhub’s services in Indonesia. The processing time is usually between 10 to 20 business days.
Work KITAS
Do’s:
Job-Specific Tasks: If an Indonesian company employs you, the Work KITAS is essential. This visa lets you perform tasks directly related to your job title. For example, if you’re a Director, you can manage operations, make executive decisions, and guide your team in Indonesia, in person.
Don’ts:
Stick to Your Role: Stepping outside your job description can land you in trouble. If your KITAS specifies you as a Director, don’t dabble in marketing or HR duties. Regularly review your job description and ensure your activities align with your Working KITAS.
Documentation and Application Process for Working KITAS
To apply for a Working KITAS, you’ll need:
- A valid passport with at least 18 months of validity.
- A completed KITAS application form.
- A work permit (IMTA) issued by the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower.
- Company registration documents and business licenses.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- Proof of health insurance coverage.
- Payment of the visa fee.
Latest Updates on Immigration Laws in Bali
Indonesian immigration laws are subject to change. Keeping up with the latest updates is essential for compliance.
Recent changes might affect processing times for visa applications or introduce new requirements for specific visa types.
Emerhub continuously monitors these updates to provide the most current information and service.
Partner with Emerhub
Have more questions about limited stay permits and visas in Indonesia or want to get started with your KITAS application process?
EMERHUB experts specialize in making the visa process smooth and hassle-free for expatriates, foreign professionals, and investors.
Contact us today to simplify your business setup in Bali.
