Permanent residency in Indonesia, known as Izin Tinggal Tetap (ITAP), is a status that allows foreign nationals to live indefinitely in the country. ITAP is an attractive option for individuals seeking long-term residence, whether for personal or professional reasons. It offers many benefits, including the ability to stay without visa renewals, access to public services, and greater stability in daily life. This article explores the essential rules for obtaining permanent residency in Indonesia, focusing on the eligibility criteria, required documents, the application process, and the benefits that come with ITAP status.
Also read: ITAP for Family Members of Foreigners: Application Guide
Who Can Apply for Permanent Residency in Indonesia?
The eligibility criteria for ITAP are specific, catering to various groups of foreign nationals. Here are the main categories of individuals who can apply for ITAP:
Foreign Nationals Holding Limited Stay Permits (KITAS)
Foreign nationals already holding a limited stay permit (Izin Tinggal Terbatas or KITAS) are eligible to apply for ITAP after meeting specific residency requirements. KITAS is typically issued to foreigners who are in Indonesia for work, investment, religious purposes, or as elderly tourists. After holding KITAS for a set period, typically five consecutive years, they can upgrade to ITAP. This transition allows them to stay in Indonesia indefinitely without needing to renew their temporary visa frequently.
Children Born in Indonesia to ITAP Holders
A child born in Indonesia to foreign parents holding ITAP automatically becomes eligible for permanent residency. This ensures that children of ITAP holders, even if born after the parents obtained their status, can legally stay in Indonesia with similar rights as their parents. The ITAP for the child must be applied for soon after birth, and the process typically requires documentation proving the parents’ ITAP status.
Mixed Marriage Families (Foreign Spouses and Children of Indonesian Citizens)
Foreign nationals married to Indonesian citizens have a pathway to ITAP through their marital relationship. After two years of marriage and holding a KITAS during that time, the foreign spouse can apply for ITAP. This benefit also extends to children born out of mixed marriages, granting them eligibility for permanent residency. ITAP provides the foreign spouse and children with more secure residency rights, allowing them to live and work in Indonesia long-term without the usual restrictions placed on foreigners.
Former Indonesian Citizens
Individuals who were once Indonesian citizens but later renounced their citizenship or lost it for various reasons can reapply for ITAP. This is especially common for people who had to give up their Indonesian citizenship due to dual nationality restrictions but want to return and live in Indonesia permanently. Documents proving their previous status as Indonesian citizens, such as birth certificates and prior Indonesian passports, are necessary for the application process.
Foreign Nationals Married to ITAP Holders
Foreigners married to someone who already holds an ITAP can apply for permanent residency based on their marital relationship. This ensures that the spouse of an ITAP holder enjoys the same rights to stay in Indonesia long-term. The application process requires proof of marriage, and the foreign spouse can apply after a certain period of time.
Ex-Child Dual Citizens
Children who once held dual nationality, but were required to renounce their Indonesian citizenship, can apply for ITAP if they continue to live in Indonesia. This provision allows children who lost Indonesian citizenship due to legal restrictions on dual nationality to maintain a permanent connection to Indonesia. It helps them stay in the country without the complications of constantly renewing a temporary visa.
Also read: How to Obtain a Birth Certificate for Foreign Nationals Born in Indonesia
Termination of Permanent Residency (ITAP)
ITAP can be terminated under specific circumstances, such as:
- Leaving Indonesia for more than a year without returning.
- Failure to renew ITAP after five years.
- Acquiring Indonesian citizenship.
- ITAP cancellation by immigration authorities.
- Deportation or death.
Documents Needed for Permanent Residency (ITAP)
The process of applying for permanent residency in Indonesia requires various documents that prove the eligibility of the applicant. The list of required documents is extensive, but ensuring all paperwork is in order will help facilitate the process. The following documents are generally required:
- Proof of Online Registration: The ITAP application starts online, and a registration receipt is necessary for processing.
- Application Letter and Guarantee Letter: A formal application letter and a guarantee letter from a sponsor or employer are required to support the residency application.
- Authorization Letter (if applicable): If the application is made through an agent or representative, an authorization letter is needed.
- Sponsor’s ID (E-KTP): The guarantor or sponsor, whether an individual or organization, must provide a valid Indonesian identity card (E-KTP).
- Applicant’s Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity is necessary for the application.
- Limited Stay Permit (KITAS): The applicant must already hold a KITAS before applying for ITAP.
- Foreign National’s E-KTP: Foreign nationals residing in Indonesia must provide their E-KTP.
- Integration Statement: This document is an agreement to respect Indonesian laws and customs.
For special cases, such as former Indonesian citizens or children of ITAP holders, additional documents may be required, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and previous Indonesian passports or citizenship documents.
Application Process to Obtaining Permanent Residency (ITAP)
The application process for ITAP can be complex, but following the steps carefully will help ensure success:
Online Registration
The process begins with the applicant registering online through the Directorate General of Immigration’s website. Once registered, the applicant will receive a confirmation receipt.
Submitting Documents to Immigration Office
After online registration, the applicant must submit all required documents to the local immigration office. This includes filling out the appropriate forms and presenting the original documents for verification.
Data Verification and Entry
Immigration officers will review the submitted documents, scan them into the system, and enter the applicant’s data.
Payment of Immigration Fees
The applicant is required to pay the appropriate fees, which can range from IDR 5,000,000 for a five-year stay permit to IDR 10,200,000 for a permanent stay permit.
Biometric Data Collection
The immigration office will collect the applicant’s biometric data, including fingerprints, a photograph, and a digital signature.
Field Inspection
In some cases, the immigration office may perform a field inspection to verify the applicant’s residence and status.
Approval by Immigration Authorities
The application is forwarded to the regional immigration office and then to the Directorate General of Immigration for final approval.
Issuance of ITAP
Once approved, the applicant will receive the ITAP card, and the permit will be stamped in the applicant’s passport.
The entire process can take up to three working days after the interview, although some cases may take longer, depending on the complexity.
Also read: Indonesia Marriage Certificate: How to Apply and Legalize
Benefits of Permanent Residency (ITAP)
Obtaining ITAP offers a wide range of benefits that make life easier for foreign nationals living in Indonesia. Some of the key advantages include:
- Long-Term Stay: Unlike other visas, ITAP allows foreign nationals to stay indefinitely in Indonesia without the need for frequent renewals.
- Access to Public Services: ITAP holders enjoy access to public services, such as healthcare and education, similar to Indonesian citizens.
- Employment Flexibility: ITAP allows foreign nationals to work without needing a separate work permit, making it easier for long-term residents to build careers.
- Ease of Travel: ITAP holders can travel in and out of Indonesia without the need for reentry permits, simplifying international travel.
- Legal Stability: ITAP provides a sense of stability and security for foreign nationals, particularly for those in mixed marriages or with families in Indonesia.
Conclusion
In summary, obtaining permanent residency (ITAP) in Indonesia is a structured yet rewarding process. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documents, and following the application process step by step, foreign nationals can secure long-term residency in this diverse and vibrant country. The benefits of ITAP are numerous, offering greater freedom, stability, and opportunities for foreign residents. For a successful application, it is essential to stay organized, comply with all requirements, and seek professional advice if necessary. Check Devisa Global Services for more info!