Jakarta, 21 May 2025 — In response to the growing influx of foreigners entering Indonesia, the Directorate General of Immigration has announced a key regulatory amendment that reinstates biometric photo procedures as a mandatory requirement for visa extension services, effective from Wednesday, 21 May 2025. The South Jakarta Immigration Office will be the first to implement the new measure, with other regional offices expected to follow suit.
This move comes as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen immigration oversight and minimise potential violations, including the misuse of stay permits, overstays, unreported presence, and failure to provide accurate documentation to immigration authorities.
The New Stipulation: Biometric Procedure Now Mandatory for ITAS & ITK Extensions
Under the newly issued Circular Letter No. IMI-417.GR.01.01 of 2025 on the Adjustment of Immigration Stay Permit Services, all foreign nationals applying for the extension of their Temporary Stay Permit (ITAS) and Visit Stay Permit (ITK) will now be required to appear in person at the immigration office according to their registered domicile to undergo biometric photo capture.
This stipulation applies across all categories of ITAS and ITK and marks a significant shift from the previous regulation (IMI-261.GR.01.01 of 2025), which allowed for remote processing through online submissions and assisted service desks.
Why the Biometric Reinstatement Matters
The biometric reinstatement is part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to improve immigration governance through the Smart Immigration Governance (SIG) initiative. This integrative approach aims to align service delivery with surveillance measures, ensuring enhanced monitoring of foreign nationals residing in the country.
According to the Directorate General of Immigration, the objectives of the biometric requirement include:
- Minimising immigration violations by ensuring physical presence and documentation accuracy.
- Mapping the distribution and activities of foreigners in Indonesia by tracking based on domicile and immigration office jurisdiction.
- Guaranteeing certainty and accountability in immigration permit applications.
- Enhancing the efficiency of administrative oversight through accurate real-time data.
Affected Visa Types: ITAS and ITK
Temporary Stay Permit (ITAS)
The ITAS allows foreign nationals to stay in Indonesia for a specified period, typically for work, family reunification, or investment. It is valid for 6 to 12 months and renewable depending on the permit’s purpose. The biometric requirement now makes in-person attendance obligatory for any renewal process.
Visit Stay Permit (ITK)
The ITK is designed for short-term visits, including tourism, family visits, or business trips. While previously extendable online, the new regulation mandates personal visits to the immigration office for any extension request, as biometric data will now form an integral part of the approval process.
What This Means for Foreign Nationals
While this regulation may cause a minor procedural adjustment for expatriates and frequent visitors, the government underscores its importance for national security, transparency, and effective immigration control. Applicants are advised to prepare for possible longer processing times and to consult with their respective immigration offices, as implementation timelines may vary by region.
Advice From Our Professional Partner
As a professional partner of Social Expat for Immigration Consultation in Indonesia, LMI Consultancy recommends all clients and expatriates residing in Indonesia to schedule appointments early and ensure domicile information is up to date in the immigration system to prevent disruptions.
For further updates and individual consultation regarding ITAS and ITK services under this new regulation, reach out to the official Indonesian Immigration website at www.imigrasi.go.id, or contact us and our partner agency, LMI Consultancy, for professional support and guidance.
