Options, Conditions, and Professional Advice
Bali is an extremely attractive destination for investors, entrepreneurs, and expatriates. Its real estate market is very dynamic, and the simple, tropical lifestyle appeals to many, making the island a tourist and business hotspot not only in Asia but worldwide. It's therefore understandable that more and more people want to settle there permanently. However, Bali is an Indonesian island, and while it is very popular with tourists, this is not the case for the entire country. Consequently, visa options are not as extensive and accessible as one might think.
Fortunately, there are options that can be tailored to individual plans. The following article provides a comprehensive overview of available visas, eligibility requirements, potential benefits, and practical advice for choosing the best immigration strategy.
The visa information presented in this article is taken from official Indonesian government websites https://www.imigrasi.go.id/, specifically the government portal dedicated to immigration. It reflects the regulations in effect at the time of writing and is provided for informational purposes only.
1. Short-Term Visas: Options for Entering Bali
For anyone wishing to travel to Bali or Indonesia, several short-term visas are available through the official Indonesian immigration portal.
The Visa on Arrival (VOA/e-VOA) is the simplest option for a tourist or exploratory visit. It is issued upon entry and generally allows a stay of up to 30 days, extendable once at a local immigration office.
For stays of up to 60 days, there is an e-Visitor Visa (C1) available through the official portal https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/. This option allows for a slightly longer stay than the VOA but does not permit immediate entry upon arrival.
These visas are useful if your plans are limited to tourism, scouting, or making contacts to prepare for future residency, but they do not grant the right to work and do not allow for long-term residency without converting to a longer-term permit.
2. Visas for Living and Investing in Bali
The Investor KITAS is a temporary residence permit issued by Indonesian Immigration to foreigners who invest in or establish a business in Indonesia.
This residence permit is linked to investment in a foreign-owned company (PT PMA). To be eligible, the investor must hold shares in the Indonesian company and commit to activities related to this shareholding.
The Investor KITAS allows:
- Residency in Indonesia for up to two years, renewable;
- The ability to enter and leave the country as often as the permit allows;
- Involvement in the management or direction of the company.
This permit falls under the categories established by Immigration and must be obtained through a registered sponsor and the official platform. It generally serves as a stepping stone to more permanent residency or, eventually, a permanent residence permit (KITAP) after several years.
3. Indonesia Golden Visa: Long-Term Stay for Strategic Investment
The Indonesian Golden Visa is an immigration program designed to attract high-level investors by offering long-term residency of 5 or 10 years.
This visa is intended for foreigners who make a significant contribution to the national economy, either through direct investments or financial investments.
Official regulations state that to obtain a Golden Visa:
An individual investor invests in government bonds, listed shares, or substantial deposits;
Investment thresholds are applied according to the nature of the investment.
This category allows individuals to remain in Indonesia without frequent renewals, with more stable residency conditions than a standard KITAS visa. It is particularly targeted at entrepreneurs, executives, and international talent wishing to establish a long-term presence in Bali or elsewhere in the country.
4. Second Home Visa: Extended Stay Without Local Employment
The Second Home Visa is a new option allowing foreigners to live in Indonesia for up to 5 or 10 years without establishing a business or working locally.
This category is primarily intended for individuals with proven financial means, such as bank deposits or significant real estate ownership, who wish to stay long-term without engaging in local employment.
Officially, this visa is similar to a long-term KITAS (Keeping Area) and grants the right to enter and leave the country within the specified period.
It is not a work visa, and holders cannot be employed by local businesses without the appropriate permit. However, this option is attractive for those who want to live, study, or simply enjoy life in Bali with more stability than a short-stay visa would offer.
5. Practical Tips for Choosing and Managing Your Visa
Indonesian law clearly distinguishes between visitor visas, temporary KITAS visas, and long-term residence permits. A visitor visa (VOA) does not automatically grant the right to an extended residence permit; conversion is often required through a local office or via a registered sponsor.
For any long-term visa application (KITAS, Golden Visa, Second Home Visa), a complete application must be submitted via the official platform https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/ or directly with a sponsor.
Indonesian authorities have strengthened requirements, particularly regarding financial documentation, sponsorship, and regulatory compliance, to ensure that investment or residency ambitions are legally supported.
Finally, the choice of visa category depends on your personal objectives: exploratory visit, long-term residency, active investment, or simply a lifestyle. Understanding these distinctions and staying informed on the official portal is essential to avoid unnecessary procedures and wasted time.
6. Conclusion: Which Visa Strategy to Choose for Bali
Choosing a visa for Bali or Indonesia depends primarily on your plans, objectives, and the duration of your stay.
A short-term visa is perfect for exploring and scouting locations, or for starting administrative procedures once you arrive.
The Investor KITAS is for those who wish to actively participate in a business or economic project in Indonesia, with the possibility of extending their stay.
The Indonesian Golden Visa is a solution for those who want long-term residency without frequent renewals, with clear investment thresholds.
The Second Home Visa appeals to those seeking a peaceful life on the island without local employment, while maintaining a longer-term presence.
All these options should be verified on the official Indonesian immigration website and prepared with a clear understanding of the conditions, required documents, and administrative procedures. By anticipating the necessary steps and adhering to current regulations, you maximize your chances of obtaining a residency status that suits your situation.
Finally, if your plan to settle in Bali actually comes to fruition, discover more information about daily life in Bali here: https://alphapartnerbali.com/fr/vivre-a-bali-en-famille/
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