An Overview of the Bali Retirement Visa (KITAS Retirement Visa)
The Indonesia Retirement Visa offers a fantastic opportunity for retirees who wish to settle in Bali and other parts of Indonesia. Officially referred to as the Retirement KITAS (Index 319), this visa is issued by the Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Law and Human Rights of Indonesia.
The visa permits retirees to stay in Indonesia for an extended period (up to one year, with the option to renew annually). It allows them to enjoy life in Indonesia's beautiful locations, including Bali, but strictly prohibits any form of employment or business activities.
To qualify, applicants must meet specific conditions, such as proving they are retired, being at least 55 years old, and demonstrating financial self-sufficiency. Health insurance and secure accommodation are also mandatory for the duration of the stay.
With its affordable living, friendly local communities, and natural beauty, Bali is an increasingly popular destination for retirees seeking a relaxing, tropical retirement experience.
The Background of Indonesia’s Retirement Visa
Indonesia’s Retirement Visa has been available for quite some time, allowing foreigners over the age of 55 to reside in the country. It is administered by Indonesia’s Immigration Department (Imigrasi) and offers an ideal option for those wanting to live long-term in Indonesia without needing to work.
The visa was created to attract retirees by providing a legal pathway to live in Indonesia while contributing to the economy through tourism and daily living expenses. Bali, in particular, has become a top choice due to its low cost of living, breathtaking scenery, and welcoming environment, making it a favored destination for expatriate retirees.
What are the requirements for the Retirement Visa in Bali?
To apply for the Indonesia Retirement Visa, several requirements must be met. Below is a summary of what's needed:
Requirements:
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Age: You must be 55 years or older.
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Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least 18 months.
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Proof of Income: You need to show evidence of a monthly income of at least $1,500 USD or an annual income of $18,000 USD.
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Accommodation: Proof of accommodation in Indonesia, whether through a lease agreement or property ownership, is required.
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Health Insurance: Valid health insurance for your stay in Indonesia is mandatory.
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No Employment: You must not be engaged in any work or business while residing in Indonesia.
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Passport Photograph: A recent passport-sized photo must be included with your application.
What is the process to apply for the Retirement Visa?
The application process for the Indonesia Retirement Visa is straightforward, and most of it can be handled online with the assistance of a licensed visa agent. Here’s how it works:
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Document Preparation
You’ll need the following documents:
• A passport-sized photo.
• Proof of retirement income, showing you meet the financial requirements.
• Bank statements from the last three months.
• Health insurance covering your stay in Indonesia.
• Proof of accommodation in Indonesia, such as a lease agreement or proof of ownership.
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Submit the Application Online
• Visit the official Indonesia Immigration Portal or consult a registered visa agent to start your application. Make sure all your documents are translated into English or Bahasa Indonesia.
• Carefully check all documents before submitting, as any mistakes or missing information can cause delays.
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Pay the Application Fee
Once your application is submitted, you’ll be required to pay a non-refundable visa fee, which typically amounts to $200 USD.
Processing Time
• Processing time usually takes between one to two weeks, depending on the volume of applications and the accuracy of your submission. You’ll be able to track the status of your application via the immigration portal.
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Enter Indonesia
After your visa is approved, you’ll need to enter Indonesia within 90 days. Upon arrival, you must apply for a KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit), which must be renewed annually.
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Which nationalities can apply for the Retirement Visa?
Most nationalities are eligible to apply for Indonesia’s Retirement Visa, with exceptions for citizens from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Guinea, Israel, Kosovo, Liberia, Nigeria, North Korea, and Somalia.
Can I work or open a business on the Retirement Visa in Bali?
No, working or starting a business while holding a Retirement Visa (KITAS Retirement Visa) is not permitted. The visa is strictly for retirees who are financially independent and do not need to seek employment.
Engaging in any kind of local employment or setting up a business while holding this visa is prohibited. If your intention is to work or run a business in Indonesia, you’ll need to apply for a different type of visa, such as a work or business visa, which comes with its own set of requirements.
