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Andi Refandi
Andi serves as a Senior Account Executive on Emerhub’s global team.
Planning to engage in business activities in Indonesia? Securing the appropriate visa is a crucial first step for a smooth entry into the country. While certain nationals may be eligible for visa-free short stays, most will need to obtain a business visa to legally enter Indonesia and stay for the intended duration.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the key business visa options available in Indonesia, their requirements, and the process for applying.
An Overview of the Indonesian Business Visa
Indonesia business visas allow foreign nationals to enter the country for temporary business-related activities, such as attending meetings and conferences, conducting negotiations, or exploring investment opportunities.
It’s important to note that these visas don’t permit full-time employment or salary-based work in the country. So if you plan to engage in direct employment or offer services, you will need additional work permits or you can consider a Working KITAS instead.
Types of Business Visa in Indonesia
Indonesia offers various business visa options based on the type and duration of business activities. Most visas allow stays of up to 60 days, with extension options available.
With the exception of the Visa on Arrival (B2), all business visas require an Indonesian guarantor such as Emerhub, that invites the applicant. Since foreign nationals cannot apply for these visas independently, their guarantor must submit the application through Indonesia’s e-visa portal.
Below are the main visa options available for business visitors:
1. Single-Entry Business Visa (C2)
The C2 Business Visa is the most common option for short-term business trips to Indonesia. It is a subcategory of the single-entry Visit Visa, designed for business travelers engaging in site visits, corporate engagements, or extended negotiations.
It requires sponsorship from an Indonesian company, which must apply along with supporting documents such as an invitation letter and proof of onward travel. This visa allows an initial stay of up to 60 days and can be extended twice.
2. C11 Exhibitor Visa
Designed for those attending trade fairs, conferences, or industry exhibitions, the C11 Exhibitor Visa is suitable for business professionals showcasing products or networking at large-scale events.
With an initial validity of 60 days and the option to extend twice, this visa accommodates longer participation in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events.
3. Visa On Arrival (B2)
The B2 Visa On Arrival (e-VOA), offers a flexible option for business travelers from 97 eligible countries– it allows a 30-day stay, extendable once.
A key benefit of this visa is that it does not require a local sponsor, making it appropriate for those in the early stages of exploring investment opportunities without an established business in Indonesia.
It provides a flexible entry option for those who need to conduct preliminary business activities without extensive documentation.
However, because of long wait times at the port of entry and shorter stay compared to other visas, many professionals prefer to secure an E-Visa before their arrival in Indonesia.
4. Multiple Entry Business Visa (D2)
For professionals who travel frequently to Indonesia for business purposes, the D2 Business Visa is a more suitable option. It allows multiple entries over one, two, or five years, with a maximum stay of 60 days per entry.
Commonly used by business executives maintaining trade relationships, overseeing projects, or negotiating contracts, this visa requires an invitation from a Guarantor in Indonesia.
5. Pre-Investment Visa (D12)
As the name suggests, the Pre-Investment Visa (D12) is not classified as a business visa but is relevant for investors who need to conduct feasibility studies, attend meetings, and explore investment opportunities before setting up a company in Indonesia.
This visa offers multiple entries for one to two years, with a stay of up to 180 days per visit. Applicants must submit financial documentation or a detailed business proposal demonstrating their intent to invest.
Indonesian Business Visa Exemptions for Selected Foreigners
Under Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024, 13 countries are eligible for visa-free entry into Indonesia, allowing them a short stay of up to 30 days. These include:
- All ASEAN member states.
- Columbia, Hong Kong, and Suriname.
However, visa-free stays cannot be extended or converted into another visa. If your business requires a prolonged stay, you must exit and re-enter Indonesia with a suitable business visa or other relevant KITAS (Limited Stay Permits).
How to Obtain a Business Visa in Indonesia
Mandatory Requirements to Apply for a Business Visa in Indonesia
The requirements for an Indonesian business visa vary depending on their sub-categories. However, general mandatory documentation includes:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your planned entry date.
- Proof of Business Activity: Examples include an invitation letter from a local company, business conference details, and a detailed itinerary.
- Return Ticket or Travel Itinerary: This demonstrates your intention to leave Indonesia after your business visit.
- Proof of Financial Capacity: Bank statements or a sponsor’s letter may be required to show financial capability, with most visas requiring a minimum of USD 2,000 as proof of funds.
Application Process for the Indonesia Business Visa
The process for securing a business visa involves several essential steps, each of which Emerhub’s relocation experts can handle for you. Our team ensures a smooth and efficient process, navigating Indonesia’s regulations on your behalf. Here’s how we assist you:
- Determine the Right Visa Type: We help you identify the most suitable business visa based on your intended budding activities, length of stay, and your nationality.
- Prepare Required Documents: We gather all the necessary documents, ensuring they align with standards set by the Indonesian immigration authorities.
- Submit the Application: We handle the submission process through embassies, consulates, or Indonesia’s e-visa portal.
- Visa Issuance and Collection: We’ll keep you informed throughout the process, ensuring timely updates on your application status. Once your visa is issued, we’ll assist you in collecting it and preparing it for use.
Ready to get started? Fill out the form below and one of our relocation experts will get back to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
The length of stay depends on the visa type you apply for. For example, a Single Entry Business Visa (C2) allows a stay of up to 60 days per entry, with a maximum stay of 180 days, while a Multiple Entry Business Visa (D2) permits stays of up to 60 days per entry for up to five years.
Business visas permit activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations. They do not authorize full-time employment or salary-based work. For employment purposes, obtaining a Working KITAS or the appropriate work permit is necessary.
Certain visas, like the Visa on Arrival (B2), do not require a local sponsor. However, for other visa types, a sponsor is typically required. In such cases, applicants can seek sponsorship from professional service providers such as Emerhub in Indonesia.
A foreign company can facilitate a business visa application for its employees, but the process still requires a local sponsor or an invitation from an Indonesian entity. Collaborating with local partners or service providers can assist in fulfilling this requirement.
If you lack an Indonesian business contact, you can use an established corporate service provider based in Indonesia such as Emerhub to act as your sponsor for the visa application process.
