Foreign nationals planning to extend their stay in Indonesia now have updated guidelines to follow, as the country’s immigration authorities have revised the rules for extending a Visa on Arrival (VoA) and Visit Visa. These new regulations aim to streamline the extension process while ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
New Requirements for Visa on Arrival Extensions
Under the updated system, foreign nationals seeking an extension for their VoA must undergo a verification process at the local immigration office corresponding to their place of stay in Indonesia. However, applicants can still initiate the extension process online via the official e-Visa portal: evisa.imigrasi.go.id.
According to Felucia Sengky Ratna, Director of Immigration Traffic, “The Visa on Arrival extension process remains accessible online for both electronic VoA holders and those who received a VoA sticker upon arrival at an airport immigration counter. Once an application is submitted, the immigration office will verify the applicant’s details before granting the extension.”
Visit Visa Holders Must Have a Guarantor for Extensions
Foreign nationals with a visit visa valid for 60 days who wish to extend their stay must secure a guarantor or sponsor who is an Indonesian citizen. This requirement underscores the importance of planning ahead for those intending to stay beyond the initial validity period.
“If a foreign national anticipates staying in Indonesia for over 60 days, securing a guarantor from the beginning is advisable. Those planning shorter stays can opt for a visit visa without a guarantor,” Ratna added.
Legal Framework and Overstay Policy
These updated procedures align with Indonesia’s Regulation of the Minister of Law and Human Rights (Permenkumham) No. 11 of 2024, which modifies provisions under Permenkumham No. 22 of 2023. One significant change is that foreign nationals will not face overstay penalties if they apply for and complete their visa extension process before their current visa expires.
How to Extend a Visa Online
To extend a Visa on Arrival or Visit Visa online, follow these steps:
1. Visit evisa.imigrasi.go.id and select “Extend My Visa.”
2. Enter your passport number, nationality, and date of birth.
3. If the information is correct, complete the visa extension form.
4. Make the required payment using a Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card.
For foreign nationals who received a VoA sticker at an airport and wish to extend it online, follow these additional steps:
1. Click the “Services” menu at the top right of the e-Visa website.
2. Under section 2, select “Find Existing Stay Permit.”
3. Enter your passport number, nationality, and date of birth to retrieve your visa information and proceed with the extension request.
Digital Services for a Smoother Experience
Indonesia’s immigration authorities continue to modernize their processes, offering digital services that enhance efficiency and accessibility. “We are committed to providing convenient online services while maintaining strict verification measures to ensure compliance with Indonesia’s immigration laws,” concluded Ratna.
These updates reflect Indonesia’s efforts to balance ease of travel with regulatory oversight, ensuring that foreign visitors can extend their stay seamlessly while adhering to legal requirements.
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