Indonesia is one of the most beautiful and exotic countries in the world, offering a wide range of cultural, natural, and historical attractions for tourists and expats alike. If you are planning to stay in Indonesia for a long time, either for work, retirement, or leisure, you may consider applying for an Indonesia Second Home Visa. This visa allows foreigners to stay in Indonesia for up to five years and enjoy various benefits and privileges. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Indonesia Second Home Visa, including the requirements, application process, fees, advantages, and restrictions.
What is Indonesia Second Home Visa?
Indonesia Second Home Visa, also known as a Social Cultural Visit Visa (SCVV) or Multiple Visit Visa, is a special visa that allows foreign nationals to stay in Indonesia for an extended period without the need for a work permit, business visa, or other types of visas. The purpose of this visa is to attract more foreign investment, tourism, and talent to Indonesia, while also promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Indonesia and other countries. The Indonesia Second Home Visa is available for citizens of selected countries, including Australia, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Russia, United States, and many European countries. Before applying for this visa, you should check if your country is eligible and if there are any additional requirements or restrictions.
What are the Requirements for Indonesia Second Home Visa?
The requirements for Indonesia Second Home Visa may vary depending on your nationality, age, health, financial status, and criminal record. However, in general, you need to fulfill the following criteria:
- Be at least 55 years old or retired
- Have a valid passport with at least 18 months of validity
- Have a sponsor or agent in Indonesia who will submit the application on your behalf
- Have a proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Indonesia
- Have a proof of financial capability, such as a bank statement, pension fund, or investment portfolio, showing that you have at least USD 1,500 per month or USD 18,000 per year
- Have a clean criminal record and pass a medical check-up
Note that the requirements may change from time to time, and you should always consult with the nearest Indonesian Embassy or Consulate for the latest information.
What is the Application Process for Indonesia Second Home Visa?
The application process for Indonesia Second Home Visa can be divided into several steps:
- Find a sponsor or agent in Indonesia who is authorized to submit the application to the Immigration Office. You can use a legal service or a trusted friend or relative who lives in Indonesia.
- Prepare the required documents, such as passport, health insurance, financial statement, and sponsor’s identity and domicile.
- Submit the application to the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in your home country or the nearest country, along with the application fee (varies depending on the country).
- Await for the approval from the Immigration Office in Indonesia, which may take up to two months or more.
- Once you receive the approval, you can enter Indonesia within 90 days and obtain the visa at the Immigration Office near your place of residence.
During your stay in Indonesia, you need to report your presence to the local Immigration Office every six months and extend your stay permit before it expires. You are also not allowed to work or engage in any business activities, but you can invest, do volunteering, or participate in cultural events.
What are the Advantages of Indonesia Second Home Visa?
The Indonesia Second Home Visa offers many benefits for foreigners who want to live in Indonesia for a longer period:
- You can stay in Indonesia for up to five years, without the need to leave the country every 60 or 180 days as with a tourist visa or a business visa.
- You can enter and exit Indonesia multiple times during the validity of the visa, without the need for a new visa or paying the visa fee.
- You can enjoy the same rights and facilities as Indonesian citizens, such as opening a bank account, buying property, and using public services.
- You can travel to other countries within the Southeast Asian region without the need for a visa or with a simplified visa process, as Indonesia is a member of ASEAN.
- You can learn and experience the Indonesian culture, language, and lifestyle, which is diverse and unique.
What are the Restrictions of Indonesia Second Home Visa?
The Indonesia Second Home Visa also has some limitations and restrictions that you should be aware of:
- You cannot work or receive any income from Indonesian sources, unless you have a separate work permit or business visa.
- You cannot stay in Indonesia continuously for more than 180 days in a calendar year, as this may trigger a tax residency or immigration status issue.
- You cannot engage in any political or religious activities that may harm the national security or social harmony of Indonesia.
- You cannot change the purpose of your stay or convert your visa to another type of visa, unless you leave Indonesia and apply again from your home country or other countries.
Conclusion
Indonesia Second Home Visa is a great option for foreign nationals who want to live in Indonesia for an extended period and enjoy the beauty and hospitality of this country. However, you need to meet the requirements, follow the rules, and respect the culture and laws of Indonesia to have a pleasant and meaningful stay. By obtaining Indonesia Second Home Visa, you can make Indonesia your second home and create unforgettable memories and experiences.
