The global shift towards remote work has led to significant changes in how professionals approach their careers, especially in terms of location. Many countries have started offering specific visas for remote workers, and Indonesia is no exception. Known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and affordable living, Indonesia has become a favorite destination for digital nomads and remote professionals.
To accommodate this growing demand, the Indonesian government introduced the Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G), allowing foreign nationals employed by companies outside Indonesia to live and work within the country. This visa offers flexibility, legal security, and the ability to enjoy the richness of Indonesian life while working remotely. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G), exploring its benefits, application process, rights, obligations, and more.
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Activities Allowed for Remote Worker Visa Indonesia Holder
The Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G) is specifically designed for individuals who have employment or business ties with companies outside of Indonesia. These individuals are allowed to perform their work remotely while residing in Indonesia, without engaging in any employment or income-generating activities from Indonesian sources. This visa category serves the purpose of facilitating a legal framework for digital nomads, ensuring that their stay in Indonesia complies with local laws while also enjoying the lifestyle and tourism opportunities the country has to offer.
Rights of Remote Worker Visa Indonesia Holders
Holders of the Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G) are granted several important rights that make living in Indonesia convenient and enjoyable. Some of the most notable rights include:
Bringing Family Members
The visa allows the remote worker to bring immediate family members, such as a spouse and children, to live in Indonesia. This makes the visa especially attractive for individuals seeking a family-friendly option for remote work. However, family members must adhere to the same immigration laws and visa requirements.
Multiple Entries and Exits
One of the key advantages of the Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G) is that it allows for multiple entries and exits. This means visa holders can freely travel in and out of Indonesia, as long as their visa and re-entry permit remain valid. This flexibility is particularly useful for individuals who need to travel frequently for business or personal reasons.
Engaging in Tourism and Social Activities
In addition to remote work, visa holders are permitted to engage in tourism-related activities, such as sightseeing, visiting friends, or attending social gatherings. This right enhances the appeal of Indonesia as a destination for remote workers, who can work during the week and explore the country on weekends or holidays.
Also read: Understanding the Working Permit Indonesia
Responsibilities of Remote Worker Visa Indonesia Holders
Along with the rights, visa holders also bear certain responsibilities while living in Indonesia. These obligations are designed to ensure that remote workers respect Indonesian laws, contribute positively to the local society, and maintain their legal status during their stay.
Compliance with Local Laws
The Indonesian government requires all visa holders, including those on the Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G), to comply with the country’s laws and regulations. This includes adhering to immigration laws, employment restrictions, and general rules governing public behavior. For example, it is crucial to ensure that all visa renewals or extensions are handled on time and that no part of the visa requirements is violated. Failure to comply with local laws can result in visa cancellation, fines, or even deportation.
Respecting Local Culture
Indonesia is a country with deep-rooted traditions and cultural norms. Foreign nationals, especially those planning long-term stays, are expected to respect local customs, traditions, and societal values. This includes understanding local etiquette, participating in community events when appropriate, and avoiding actions that may be considered offensive or disrespectful. For example, dressing modestly, being mindful of religious customs, and respecting local traditions are important aspects of living in Indonesia.
Financial Independence
Visa holders are required to prove that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their families during their stay. This is a crucial aspect of the visa, as it ensures that remote workers do not become a financial burden on the local economy. Applicants must submit documentation that demonstrates they can cover living expenses, healthcare, and other necessary costs without relying on local employment or government assistance.
Restrictions on Remote Worker Visa Indonesia Holders
While the Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G) offers a wide range of benefits, it also comes with specific restrictions. These limitations are in place to ensure that the visa is used for its intended purpose and to prevent abuse of the system.
1. Overstaying the Visa
One of the most important restrictions for visa holders is the prohibition on overstaying the visa’s validity period. Overstaying can lead to serious consequences, including fines, deportation, and a ban from re-entering Indonesia. It is essential for visa holders to monitor their visa expiration date and apply for renewals or extensions well in advance to avoid any legal issues.
2. Selling Goods or Services
Visa holders are strictly prohibited from selling goods or services within Indonesia. This means they cannot engage in commercial activities targeting the local market, such as opening a business, selling products, or offering services to Indonesian customers. The Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G) is intended for individuals whose primary source of income comes from outside Indonesia, ensuring that local job opportunities and markets remain protected for Indonesian citizens and residents.
3. Receiving Local Compensation
Visa holders are not allowed to receive any form of compensation, wage, or income from Indonesian sources. This includes payments from local individuals, companies, or corporations. Engaging in local employment or receiving payments from within Indonesia violates the terms of the visa and can result in severe penalties, including the cancellation of the visa and deportation.
Also read: Quick and Easy Apply Tourist Visa Bali, Indonesia
General Requirements for Visa Application
To apply for the Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G), applicants must meet a series of general and specific requirements. These requirements are intended to verify the applicant’s eligibility and ensure they have the financial means and appropriate employment status to live in Indonesia.
General Requirements
- Valid Passport: The applicant must possess a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from the date of entry into Indonesia. This ensures that the applicant’s passport remains valid throughout their stay.
- Immigration Guarantee: The applicant must provide proof of an immigration guarantee, which could be in the form of sponsorship from a company or individual outside Indonesia. This ensures that the applicant is not relying on local resources for their stay.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds: Applicants must demonstrate that they have enough financial resources to support themselves and their family members during their stay. This typically involves submitting recent bank statements that show sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Indonesia.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photo: A recent color passport-sized photo must be submitted as part of the visa application. This photo should meet the specific requirements outlined by the Indonesian immigration authorities.
Specific Requirements
- Proof of Sufficient Income: One of the most critical specific requirements is proof that the applicant earns an annual income of at least US$60,000. This income can come from employment, freelance work, or other sources of income from outside Indonesia. Applicants must submit documentation, such as salary statements or tax returns, to verify their income.
- Proof of Foreign Employment: The applicant must provide proof of employment with a company or client outside Indonesia. This ensures that the applicant is genuinely employed as a remote worker and is not seeking local employment in Indonesia.
Additional Provisions for Stateless Individuals
Foreign nationals who do not have formal citizenship or those who hold non-national travel documents, such as temporary or emergency passports, must meet additional requirements when applying for the Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G). This includes providing a re-entry permit for their country of origin and a return ticket or onward travel ticket. These provisions ensure that stateless individuals or those with unusual travel documents can enter and leave Indonesia legally.
Application and Processing Steps
The process for applying for the Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G) is straightforward and can be completed online. Here are the steps involved:
1. Submission of Documents
The first step is to submit all required documents through the e-Visa portal. This includes proof of foreign employment, financial stability, and a valid passport. It’s crucial to ensure that all documents are accurate and up to date to avoid delays in the application process.
2. Verification of Immigration Fees
Once the application is submitted, the required immigration fees must be paid. These fees are non-refundable and are a mandatory part of the application process. Payment verification is necessary before the application can proceed to the next stage.
3. Profile Creation and Verification
After submitting the documents and paying the fees, a personal profile will be created for the applicant. This profile will be used for tracking the application status and ensuring that all documents are verified by immigration officials.
4. Visa Issuance
Once the verification process is complete and the application is approved, the visa will be issued. The applicant will receive their visa electronically, and they can print it out or keep a digital copy for their records.
Also read: Address Mutation for Foreign Nationals in Indonesia
Conclusion
The Remote Worker Visa Indonesia (E33G) offers a valuable opportunity for digital nomads and remote workers to live and work in Indonesia legally. By understanding and adhering to the visa requirements, responsibilities, and restrictions, remote workers can enjoy a fulfilling experience in Indonesia. The flexibility of the visa allows for multiple entries and exits, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between work and exploration. With careful planning and compliance with Indonesian laws, remote workers can make the most of their stay in this beautiful and culturally rich country. Check our socmed for more info!