In a significant move to enhance the immigration experience for foreign nationals, the Directorate General of Immigration (Ditjenim) of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights has introduced a new policy called the Bridging Visa. This visa serves as a crucial “bridge” for individuals holding residence permits that are due for renewal or seeking to change their status, eliminating the need to leave Indonesia during the transition process.
Under the Bridging Visa policy, foreign nationals holding limited stay permits (ITAS) and permanent stay permits (ITAP) that have reached their maximum extension period can now apply for new residence permits without departing Indonesia. This applies to holders of visit visas (VOA) obtained through the Indonesian e-visa platform, who can now transition to limited stay permits within the country.
“This policy aims to provide convenience and legal certainty for foreign nationals residing in Indonesia,” stated Silmy Karim, Director General of Immigration. “By eliminating the requirement to leave Indonesia for visa renewals or status changes, we are streamlining the process and saving foreigners valuable time, effort, and accommodation costs.”
The Bridging Visa, formalized under Regulation of the Minister of Law and Human Rights (Permenkumham) Number 11 Year 2024, which came into effect on April 1, 2024, is valid for 60 days and is strictly onshore, meaning it applies only to foreign nationals already present in Indonesia.
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“This visa automatically becomes invalid if the foreign national leaves Indonesian territory,” Silmy added.
A key advantage of the Bridging Visa is that it allows foreign nationals to apply for a change in status to a limited stay permit without incurring overstay penalties if their application is approved before the expiration of their current residence permit.
To avail of the Bridging Visa, foreign nationals must apply for the evisa.imigrasi.go.id website and settle the immigration fees no later than three days before the validity period of their current residence permit expires.
The introduction of the Bridging Visa marks a significant step forward in Indonesia’s commitment to providing a seamless and hassle-free immigration experience for foreign nationals. It aligns with the country’s efforts to attract and retain foreign talent, fostering a more inclusive and globally connected society.
Bridging Visa or EVITAS? the Key Differences
While both the Bridging Visa and EVITAS (Electronic Visa Information and System) facilitate immigration procedures for foreign nationals, they serve distinct purposes and have different application timelines.
The Bridging Visa is specifically designed for individuals seeking to extend their residence permits or change their status without leaving Indonesia. It is particularly useful for those whose current permits are nearing expiration or who require a change in status due to employment or personal reasons.
On the other hand, EVITAS serves as a pre-clearance mechanism for foreign nationals applying for certain types of visas, such as visit visas (VOA), business visas (KITAS), and social visas (KITAS). It allows individuals to submit their visa applications electronically and receive preliminary approval before travelling to Indonesia.
The key distinction lies in the application timeline. Bridging Visa applications must be submitted within three days before the current residence permit’s expiration, while EVITAS applications can be made well in advance of the intended travel date.
In essence, the Bridging Visa acts as a bridge during the transition between residence permits, while EVITAS streamlines the initial visa application process. Both play crucial roles in facilitating immigration procedures for foreign nationals in Indonesia.
Read more: How E-Vitas Indonesian Visa Can Benefit Foreign Investors in Indonesia
Indonesia’s Bridging Visa Policy is designed to implement immigration functions that facilitate the national economy. This policy can support the successful target of issuing 1000 (one thousand) Golden Visa Indonesia in 2024. Where the Golden Visa Indonesia brings quality OFWs to live in Indonesia in order to improve the Indonesian economy for the better.
