Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP) – Who is it for and What Are the Benefits?

The Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP) is the most comprehensive visa option for expatriates living in Indonesia. It allows foreign nationals to stay in Indonesia for 5 years at a time, eliminating the need for annual renewals and paperwork, making it the ideal choice for long-term residents. Although the process to obtain a KITAP can be more involved, it offers numerous benefits that make it well worth the effort.

Benefits of Having a Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP):

1. No Need for Annual Renewals: Unlike the KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit), the KITAP does not require yearly trips to the immigration office or the renewal process.
2. Indonesian ID: With a KITAP, you can obtain an Indonesian ID card (KTP), which is valid for 5 years.
3. Unrestricted Entry and Exit: KITAP holders can enter and exit Indonesia freely for 2 years without needing additional visas.
4. Local Benefits: You can obtain a local driver’s license, open bank accounts, apply for credit cards, and take out loans in Indonesia.
5. Lower Costs: As a resident, you can pay local prices for attractions, services, and goods, rather than the higher tourist prices.
6. Real Estate Ownership: A KITAP holder is eligible to own real estate in Indonesia, which is a significant advantage for long-term expatriates.

Who Can Apply for a KITAP?

The KITAP is reserved for certain categories of foreign nationals, and there are different paths to obtaining it:

1. Foreigners Married to Indonesian Citizens:

   • After 2 years of marriage to an Indonesian spouse, you can apply for a KITAP.
   • Initially, you will need a KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit) before applying for the KITAP.
   • You must stay married for 2 consecutive years before qualifying for a KITAP.

2. Foreigners Who Are Retiring in Indonesia:

   • If you are 55 years or older and have held a Retirement KITAS for 4 consecutive years, you can apply for the Retirement KITAP.

3. Foreign Investors and High-Level Employees:

   • Foreign nationals who have worked in Indonesia for at least 4 years in a Director or Commissioner role at a foreign-owned company (PT PMA) can apply for a KITAP, provided they have held a valid work permit (IMTA) during that time.

More Details on Each Option:

Spouse Sponsored KITAP:

• • After being married for 2 years to an Indonesian citizen, you can apply for a Spouse KITAP.
  • If you’ve already held a KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit) for 2 years, you can directly apply for the KITAP, bypassing the need for additional extensions.

Retirement KITAP:

• • The primary requirement for a Retirement KITAP is being 55 years or older.
  • Before applying for the Retirement KITAP, you need to have held a Retirement KITAS for 4 years.

Investor and Employee KITAP:

• • If you have worked in Indonesia for 4 consecutive years as a Director or Commissioner of a foreign-owned company and held an IMTA, you are eligible to apply for the Investor or Employee KITAP.

Required Documents for KITAP Applications:

Spouse Sponsored KITAP:

• • Passport.
  • Current KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit).
  • Marriage documents (certificate, books, registrations).
  • ID Card (KTP) of the Indonesian spouse.
  • Family Registration Card (Kartu Keluarga) of the Indonesian spouse.
  • Letter of Domicile.
  • Reference letter from the foreigner’s embassy for the marriage.

Investors & Retirees KITAP:

• • Original passport.
  • History of 1st–4th KITAS.
  • Current RPTK (Approval Letter for Foreign Worker).
  • Current IMTA (Work Permit).
  • Company documents (Business License, Notarial Deed, Ministry of Law Approval, NPWP, TDP).
  • DPKK fund payment proof (USD 1,200 per year).
  • ITAS stamps (on passport).

The KITAP offers a multitude of benefits that make it an excellent choice for those planning to stay in Indonesia for an extended period. While it requires more effort to obtain compared to other visa types, it offers convenience, long-term residency, and the ability to engage in more local activities and benefits.

For those who qualify, whether through marriage, retirement, or long-term employment or investment in Indonesia, the KITAP is a highly beneficial visa option, providing the freedom and security to live in Indonesia without the hassle of yearly renewals.