In mid-2025, the Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration introduced significant changes to visa renewal procedures, requiring applicants to be physically present at an immigration office. This new policy combines online registration with in-person attendance for biometric verification and a short interview, aimed at improving oversight and preventing misuse of stay permits by foreign nationals.

This policy was implemented to ensure stricter oversight of various visa types valid in Indonesia, such as Visa on Arrival (VOA), KITAS extensions, and temporary stay permits. The Indonesian government hopes to combat immigration violations, such as overstaying or unauthorized use of stay permits. This policy is expected to allow for more accurate verification of all submitted documents and early detection of potential misuse.

One of the main changes is the requirement for applicants to submit applications online through the official Indonesian Immigration portal (evisa.imigrasi.go.id). Applicants are then required to appear in person at the immigration office for biometric processing, such as photo capture, fingerprint scanning, and a brief interview regarding their planned stay in Indonesia. This requirement applies to all types of visas and stay permits requiring extension, except for certain vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, or pregnant or breastfeeding women, who can still submit applications manually with the assistance of staff.

Furthermore, although the initial process is conducted online, a physical presence at the immigration office is still required to complete the visa extension process. This is to ensure that submitted documents are authentic and have not been tampered with. A decision regarding visa approval will be processed after an interview, with approval times varying depending on the visa type and whether additional approvals are required.Directorate General of Immigration.

While this procedure may seem inconvenient to some, there are several benefits worth noting.Face to face processThis ensures that submitted data is more accurate and can be verified. Furthermore, applicants can resolve any document issues or deficiencies directly, avoiding further delays in their visa renewal process. Furthermore, this system provides greater transparency into applicants’ residence permit and visa records, which is crucial for ensuring a person’s legal status remains valid while in Indonesia.

However, as with any administrative process, there are still some challenges to overcome. One of the main issues is late submissions or incomplete documents. Some immigration offices, especially those in major tourist destinations like Bali or Jakarta, are often highly congested, so applicants should be prepared for potentially longer wait times. Therefore, it is highly recommended to start the process early.visa extensionat least seven to ten days before your visa expires. Applicants must also ensure that all required documents are complete and meet immigration requirements.

For those who are struggling to understand these procedural changes or need further guidance, professional consulting services like those offered by CPT Corporate can be invaluable. CPT Corporate provides services that include immigration consultations, document preparation, and assistance during the visa renewal process at the immigration office. With expert assistance, you can more easily navigate this sometimes complex process, ensuring that all requirements are met correctly and on time.

Overall, while this visa extension process with physical presence brings new challenges, it also provides an opportunity to strengthen Indonesia’s immigration system and ensure that foreigners living or working in the country comply with all applicable regulations. For expatriates and tourists planning to extend their visas, it’s important to understand each step of the process to avoid issues and ensure a smooth journey.

If you need assistance ensuring your visa renewal process runs smoothly, CPT Corporate can be your trusted partner in handling all aspects of immigration, from registration to administrative processing at the immigration office. With professional guidance, you can mitigate risks and ensure your stay permit remains valid and complies with applicable regulations.