How to Obtain A Spouse Visa in Indonesia

A spouse visa is one of the most attractive documents for foreigners visiting Indonesia. However, Indonesia’s immigration process has often been criticized for being complex and unclear. Nevertheless, you can navigate the challenges of obtaining a spouse visa in Indonesia with thorough research and the assistance of a professional consulting firm.

What is a Spouse Visa?

Foreigners who marry Indonesian citizens can get a visa through a spouse-sponsored marriage or a spouse visa. The spouse visa in Indonesia can sponsor two immigration documents, KITAS/ITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) and KITAP. 

In this article, we will provide information about the requirements for a spouse visa in Indonesia, the process of obtaining it, and the benefits it offers for living and conducting business in Indonesia.

Requirements for a Spouse Visa in Indonesia

The first requirement for obtaining a spouse visa is being married to an Indonesian citizen. Additionally, you will need an official marriage certificate approved by the government as one of the necessary documents.

Getting Married in Indonesia vs. Abroad

According to Indonesian law, a marriage to an Indonesian spouse is considered valid only when conducted according to the regulations and religious beliefs recognized by both husband and wife in Indonesia.

Marriages in Indonesia can be performed at authorized offices such as Kantor Urusan Agama (Office of Religious Affairs) and civil registry offices (Kantor Catatan Sipil). If the marriage occurs outside of Indonesia, foreigners can file a marriage report and submit other official marriage certificates to the Indonesian Embassy abroad.

Procedure to Get a Spouse Visa in Indonesia

By engaging with InCorp Indonesia (formerly Cekindo) for a spouse visa application, you will only need to visit the immigration office once during the process. Typically, this visit is required for converting VITAS to KITAS and for biometric data processing.

Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining a spouse visa in Indonesia:

Electronic VITAS

• Prepare a valid passport and a copy of the passport, marriage certificate, copy of ID and family card of your Indonesian spouse (with “married” status), copy of the Indonesian spouse’s latest bank statement, and sponsor letter.
• Apply for an Electronic VITAS, issued by Indonesian Immigration, within ten working days.

Convert VITAS into KITAS/ITAS

When your passport is scanned upon entering Indonesia, your electronic VITAS will automatically be converted into a KITAS/ITAS. The KITAS is valid for six months to a year and must be renewed every 12 months. It can have a total validity of up to five years.

Civil Registration and Reporting

• Within 14 days of KITAS issuance, a foreigner with a spouse-sponsored KITAS/ITAS must register with the civil administration department.
• Prepare the required documents and present them to the civil administration department.
• You will get SKTT (Temporary Residence Permit) and STM (Police Report Certificate)

Convert KITAS/ITAS into KITAP/ITAP

After two years of marriage, consider converting your KITAS/ITAS to a KITAP/ITAP, a more permanent stay permit for your spouse in Indonesia. KITAP must be renewed every five years, possibly consecutively for 25 years. The KITAP/ITAP can serve as an essential document for further progression toward obtaining full Indonesian citizenship.

Why You Should Use an Immigration Consultant to Get a Spouse Visa

Obtaining a spouse visa can be a complex and challenging process that involves paperwork, legal requirements, and potential hurdles. To make this process smoother and ensure a better experience, it is recommended to engage the services of a reputable consultant or agency. 

At InCorp Indonesia, we understand the intricacies of spouse visa applications and are dedicated to providing customized solutions for our clients. Below are some reasons why you should consider using a consultant or agency for your spouse visa needs:

Expertise and Guidance

Choose highly experienced professionals who possess an in-depth understanding of immigration regulations. Consultants must confidently guide you through the application process, ensuring all necessary documents are in order and submitted correctly. 

Streamlined Process

By seeking the help of a reliable immigration consultant, the usually complicated process of applying for a spouse visa can be made much more accessible. The consultant takes on the responsibility of handling your administrative duties, which allows you to concentrate on other aspects of your relocation. They aim to make the journey towards obtaining your spouse visa as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Time and Energy Savings

Embarking on the visa application process alone can be time-consuming and mentally exhausting. Consultant services are designed to save you valuable time and energy by managing all the intricate details on your behalf. This lets you focus on settling into your new life with your spouse without worrying about the complicated visa process.

Personalized Support

We understand that every immigration case is unique, so our consultants provide personalized support tailored to your specific needs and concerns.

Benefits of a Spouse KITAS Holder

If you are a spouse KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) holder in Indonesia, you can enjoy a range of advantages that can make your expatriate life more fulfilling and hassle-free. Apart from the legal residency status, several other benefits can enrich your life differently. Let’s take a closer look at some of the perks of being a spouse KITAS holder:

Legal Residency

The primary advantage of holding a spouse KITAS is the legal right to live in Indonesia, which provides stability and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and vibrant communities the country offers.

Employment Opportunities

Spouses holding KITAS are eligible to work in Indonesia, providing career growth and professional development opportunities and enhancing the overall expatriate experience.

Access to Healthcare and Education

Access healthcare services and education institutions for a healthy and fulfilling life in Indonesia.

Convenient Travel

Travel freely within Indonesia with a spouse KITAS, and explore diverse landscapes and cultural gems without short-term visitor constraints. 

Community Integration

As a spouse holding a KITAS, you can seamlessly integrate into the local community, connect with other expats, and build lasting relationships in Indonesia.

How Long Does the Process of Obtaining a Spouse Visa in Indonesia Take?

The time it takes to process a spouse visa in Indonesia can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the completeness of your application, the workload of the Indonesian immigration authorities, and any unexpected delays that may occur. 

On average, the processing time is between 4 and 14 weeks. Here is a breakdown of the typical timeline for obtaining a spouse visa in Indonesia:

• Application submission: The first step is to submit your application to the Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration (Ditjen Imigrasi). You can do this online or in person at an immigration office.
• Application review: Once your application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by Ditjen Imigrasi to ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements. This process typically takes 2-3 weeks.
• Interview: If your application is deemed to be complete, you may be invited to attend an interview with an immigration officer. This interview allows the officer to assess your marriage and ensure that you genuinely intend to live together in Indonesia.
• Visa issuance: If your interview is successful, your visa will be issued within 3-5 days.

Tips to Obtain Your Spouse Visa Faster

Apart from the requirements mentioned earlier, it is mandatory to register your marriage with the Indonesian civil registry within 14 days of your arrival in Indonesia. Additionally, you are required to acquire a police certificate (STM) from the Indonesian police force. To speed up the processing time for your spouse visa, here are some useful tips:

• Start the process early: The earlier you start the process, the more time you will have to gather all of the required documents and prepare for your interview.
• Be organized and efficient: Keep all your documents organized and ensure they are all complete and up-to-date.
• Attend your interview on time: Be sure to arrive for your interview on time and dress appropriately.
• Be prepared to answer questions about your marriage: Be prepared to answer questions about your marriage, such as how you met, where you live, and your plans for the future.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your spouse visa application is processed smoothly and efficiently.

How Long is the Duration of a Spouse Visa in Indonesia?

The duration of a spouse visa in Indonesia depends on the type of visa you apply for. There are two main types of spouse visas in Indonesia:

• Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas Penyatuan Keluarga (KITAP): This renewable visa is valid for one year at a time. It can be added for up to five years.
• Kartu Izin Tinggal Tetap (KITAP): This permanent visa is valid for five years. It can be renewed indefinitely.

In order to qualify for a KITAP, you need to be married to an Indonesian citizen and have resided together in Indonesia for a minimum of one year. On the other hand, to be eligible for a KITAS, you must be married to an Indonesian citizen and have resided together in Indonesia for at least six months.

Company-Sponsored KITAS/ITAS

If you have a company-sponsored working KITAS/ITAS, you can still convert it to a KITAP. However, your Indonesian spouse must provide a sponsor letter. It is important to note that you cannot work for any company without a work permit RPTKA (Pengesahan Rencana Penggunaan Tenaga Kerja Asing or the Foreign Worker Utilization Plan) from the Manpower Department in Indonesia. The company is the only valid entity authorized to sponsor you for RPTKA.

The Benefits of a Spouse Visa in Indonesia

Obtaining a KITAS/ITAS or KITAP spouse visa in Indonesia offers the following benefits

• Validity for a stay in Indonesia: 5 years (for spouse KITAP)
• Validity of MERP (Multiple Exit/Re-Entry Permit): 2 years
• An Indonesian ID, KTP (Kartu Tanda Penduduk), with a validity of 5 years (for spouse KITAP)
• An Indonesian driver’s license, SIM (Surat Izin Mengemudi)
• Ability to open bank accounts, apply for loans and credit cards in Indonesia
• Eligibility for local prices at tourist attractions
• Eligibility for pursuing Indonesian citizenship

What Will Happen in the Event of a Divorce?

Suppose you have been married to your Indonesian spouse for less than ten years, and you get divorced. In that case, you must submit a new sponsor to the immigration authorities in Indonesia within 60 days to maintain the validity of the spouse visa you have obtained.

Obtain Your Spouse Visa Easily with InCorp

Obtaining a spouse visa in Indonesia can be challenging if you try to navigate it independently. The complicated processes and requirements often overwhelm individuals. To avoid the burdensome paperwork and save time spent at the immigration office, start your journey with InCorp Indonesia.

We will handle all your hassles and ensure a smooth spouse visa application process. Fill out the form below for more information about spouse visa applications in Indonesia.