If you’re planning to live, work, invest, or join your family in Indonesia, understanding the difference between KITAS and KITAP is essential. While both are residence permits for foreigners, they serve different purposes and come with distinct eligibility requirements.
This guide explains the key differences between KITAS and KITAP, including who qualifies, the required documents, application process, costs, and how to choose the right permit based on your stay in Indonesia.
Understanding KITAS: Indonesian Stay Permits
In Indonesia, two terms frequently come up in discussions about stay permits: ITAS and KITAS, which respectively stand for “Izin Tinggal Terbatas” (Limited Stay Permit/ITAS) and “Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas” (Limited Stay Permit Card/KITAS).
In essence, both terms signify the same thing – a temporary authorization to reside in Indonesia.
The distinction between these terms is straightforward. KITAS is the physical card embodying the permit, where “K” stands for “Kartu,” meaning “card” in Indonesian. Meanwhile, ITAS refers to the permit itself, excluding the card.
However, it’s important to note that Indonesian immigration predominantly issues limited stay permits electronically nowadays, which has led to a change in terminology.
Therefore, the terms “e-ITAS” or simply “ITAS” are now commonly used to refer to the electronic version.
KITAS is governed by Regulation of the Minister of Law and Human Rights Number 29 of 2021 on Visas and Stay Permits (“RMLHR 29/2021”), Article 1 number 18, which defines Limited Stay Permit as:
“A permit given to a foreigner to reside within Indonesian territory for a limited period.”
To secure this document, an applicant typically requires employment in Indonesia and sponsorship from the company where the foreign individual is employed.
Read more: Indonesia KITAS – Everything You Need to Know in 2023
Types of ITAS (KITAS) in Indonesia
ITAS in Indonesia covers four primary categories, each tailored to specific circumstances:
Spouse ITAS (Family ITAS)
If you are legally married to an Indonesian citizen, this visa category allows you to reside in Indonesia. However, it does not grant work rights; a separate work permit in Indonesia is essential for employment.
Work Visa ITAS
A work visa ITAS can only be sponsored by a company or an organization. The work permit’s validity influences its duration and may include multiple exits and re-entry permits.
Retirement Visa ITAS
Designed for those seeking retirement in Indonesia, retirement ITAS in Indonesia doesn’t mandate employment or business involvement.
It’s important to check if your nationality qualifies for this visa. A retirement visa is valid for one year and can be extended up to four times.
Transit ITAS
For Indonesians in the process of regaining Indonesian citizenship, this visa facilitates their temporary stay permit. Its validity ranges from 6 to 12 months.
Read more: Full Guide to Starting a Business for Foreigners in Indonesia 2023
Understanding ITAP and KITAP in Indonesia
ITAP (Izin Tinggal Tetap) and its card version, KITAP (Kartu Izin Tinggal Tetap) – both equate to permanent residency visas. The “K” signifies the card aspect.
ITAP/KITAP serves as a pathway for foreign nationals to establish lasting roots in Indonesia. With a validity of five years and limitless extensions, this visa is accessible to several groups:
- Foreigners with a temporary stay permit (ITAS or KITAS) in categories like expats, investors, retirees, or religious missionaries.
- Members of mixed-marriage families.
- Spouses or children of permanent stay visa holders.
- Foreigners with previous Indonesian citizenship or dual citizenship of Indonesia and another country.
According to Article 106 number 1 of Law Number 11 of 2020 on Job Creation (“Law 11/2020”), which amends Article 1 number 23 of Law 6/2011, KITAP is defined as a limited stay permit, as follows:
“Permission granted to specific foreigners to live and settle in Indonesia as Indonesian residents.”
Read more: KITAP Indonesia – How To Obtain Residence Permit in Indonesia
KITAS vs KITAP: What’s the Difference?
Although both KITAS and KITAP allow foreigners to legally reside in Indonesia, they differ in terms of validity, eligibility, and long-term benefits. The table below highlights the key differences between the two permits.
| Feature | KITAS | KITAP |
| Stay Status | Temporary Stay Permit | Permanent Stay Permit |
| Validity | 6–12 months (renewable) | 5 years (extendable indefinitely) |
| Purpose | Work, study, investment, family, retirement | Long-term residence |
| Sponsor Required | Yes | Yes |
| Renewal | Annual or based on permit validity | Every 5 years |
| Eligible Applicants | Workers, investors, students, spouses, retirees | Long-term KITAS holders, spouses of Indonesians, investors, retirees |
| Best For | Short to medium-term stay | Permanent residence in Indonesia |
How to Apply for KITAS & KITAP (Step-by-Step)
Here some steps to apply for KITAS:
- Prepare required documents (passport, photos, sponsorship letter, work permit if applicable).
- Submit an application to the Indonesian Immigration Office or through a trusted agent like Abhitech.
- Receive e-ITAS or physical KITAS card.
- Collect KITAS from immigration office or via sponsor.
- Extend annually as required.
Here some steps to apply for KITAP:
- Ensure you meet the required KITAS residency duration (varies by visa type).
- Gather necessary documents: KITAS, sponsorship, financial proof, clean criminal record.
- Submit application to immigration with the help of a formal agent.
- Receive KITAP card (valid for 5 years, extendable indefinitely).
How Much Do KITAS and KITAP Cost?
The cost of obtaining a KITAS or KITAP varies depending on the visa category, sponsorship, and government regulations.
Besides official immigration fees, applicants may also need to pay for supporting documents, work permits (for employment), document legalization, and professional immigration assistance.
Because immigration fees and administrative policies may change over time, it is recommended to consult a trusted immigration service provider before submitting your application.
Can You Convert a KITAS to a KITAP?
Yes. Foreign nationals holding a KITAS may become eligible to apply for a KITAP once they meet the minimum residency requirements for their visa category.
The eligibility period differs depending on whether the applicant is sponsored by an Indonesian spouse, an employer, or qualifies as an investor or retiree.
Applicants must also continue meeting immigration requirements, including maintaining a valid sponsor, submitting the required supporting documents, and complying with Indonesian immigration regulations.
Once approved, a KITAP allows long-term residence with fewer renewal requirements than a KITAS.
Hire Foreign Employees Easily with Abhitech EOR
Hiring foreign talent in Indonesia involves more than obtaining a KITAS or KITAP. Employers must also comply with immigration, employment, payroll, tax, and labor regulations to ensure every hire meets Indonesian legal requirements.
With Abhitech Employer of Record (EOR), you can onboard international employees without establishing a local entity. Our team manages employment administration, payroll, tax compliance, work permits (RPTKA), KITAS, and other immigration requirements, allowing you to focus on growing your business.
Whether you’re expanding your team or entering the Indonesian market, Abhitech provides end-to-end EOR solutions that simplify hiring and ensure full compliance. Contact our team today to learn how we can support your workforce in Indonesia.
FAQ About KITAS & KITAP
1. What is the difference between KITAS and KITAP?
KITAS is a temporary stay permit for foreigners living in Indonesia, while KITAP is a permanent stay permit granted to those who meet long-term residency requirements.
2. Who is eligible for a KITAP?
KITAP is usually granted to foreign spouses of Indonesian citizens, long-term workers, investors, and retirees who meet specific residency duration requirements.
3. Can a KITAS holder apply for a KITAP?
Yes. After holding a KITAS for a certain number of consecutive years, depending on the permit type, a foreigner may apply for a KITAP.
4. How long are KITAS and KITAP valid?
KITAS is typically valid for 6–12 months and can be renewed annually, depending on the visa type. Meanwhile, KITAP is valid for 5 years and can be extended indefinitely as long as the holder continues to meet the eligibility requirements.
5. What are the common reasons a KITAS or KITAP application is rejected?
A KITAS or KITAP application may be rejected due to incomplete or inaccurate documents, failure to meet eligibility requirements, an invalid sponsor, expired supporting documents, or inconsistencies in the information submitted.
