Are Investor KITAS and Golden Visa The Same? Understanding Long-Term Investor Visa Options in Indonesia
Are Investor KITAS and Golden Visa The Same? Understanding Long-Term Investor Visa Options in Indonesia

Are Investor KITAS and Golden Visa The Same? Understanding Long-Term Investor Visa Options in Indonesia

Indonesia’s dynamic and vast developing economy has become one of the major reasons for foreign investors to catch an eye on entering its market. The evident outlook projects the sustainable economic growth momentum in 2024, with a forecasted GDP growth of 4.9%, according to Tempo.

Despite facing continuous challenges from the lacklustre global economic environment along with several other Southeast Asia countries, Indonesia persists in outperforming leading global economies.

If you plan to join in and benefit from the Indonesian market through foreign investment, ensuring the right process and legal compliance before entering the Indonesian market is crucial to secure smooth navigation through the country’s business landscape.

For foreign investors, Indonesia provides two entry pathways that accommodate the entry and stay period within the country; Investor visa KITAS and Golden Visa. In this article, we will discuss the details of Investor KITAS and Golden Visa, who is it for, the benefits and everything you need to know about the two visa schemes.

What is the Investor Visa (KITAS)?

The Investor KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is a Limited Stay Permit specifically designed for foreign investors who actively establish or invest in a company in Indonesia. Introduced in 2011 (revised in 2019), it simplifies obtaining residency for foreign investors establishing or investing in Indonesian businesses (PT PMA). The Investor KITAS is ideal for entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and investors seeking hands-on involvement in their Indonesian business ventures.

Read the full information about Everything You Need to Know about Investor Visa here.

What is a Golden Visa?

Golden Visa is a residency by investment and citizenship by investment scheme.  Indonesia’s golden visa policy is contained in Minister of Law and Human Rights Regulation Number 22 of 2023 concerning Visas and Residence Permits and Minister of Finance Regulation Number 82 of 2023 which was promulgated on 30 August 2023.

In order to obtain a golden visa to stay in Indonesia, foreign individual investors who will establish a company in Indonesia are required to invest USD 2.5 million to USD 5 million or around IDR 38 billion to IDR 76 billion.

Want to know more about Golden Visa? Talk to LetsMoveIndonesia’s professional consultants for a comprehensive guide and application process here.

Investor KITAS vs Golden Visa Indonesia: Which is Right for You?

The choice depends entirely on your goals. LetsMoveIndonesia breaks down the key differences between the Investor Visa and the Golden Visa to help you make an informed decision to enter Indonesia and streamline the smooth investment.

Validity

The Investor KITAS in Indonesia is a visa that grants permission for foreign investors to stay for an initial one or two years, with the potential for renewal depending on the continued viability of the investment. Meanwhile, the Golden Visa can aid a much longer stay of about 5 – 10 years and is also renewable.

Investment Requirements

To be eligible for the Investor KITAS, investors must invest a minimum of IDR 1.25 billion in shares of a PT PMA (Foreign Investment Company) in Indonesia and must have a paid-up capital of at least IDR 10 billion in their PT PMA.

Meanwhile, a Golden Visa in Indonesia requires foreign investors to invest a minimum of:

  1. USD 25 million in a large-sized company in Indonesia.
  2. At least USD 50 million in a large-sized company in Indonesia and create a minimum of 10 jobs for Indonesian citizens.
  3. A minimum of IDR 2 billion in a government bond.

Benefits

Both the Investor Visa and Golden Visa grant a broad spectrum of benefits for foreigners seeking to invest in Indonesia. Below are the key benefits of each Indonesia visa plan:

Benefits of using Investor Visa

  • Direct control over your Indonesian business operations.
  • Eligibility for Indonesian work permits.
  • Multiple Entry mobility.
  • A path towards an ITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) after a designated time.

Benefits of using Golden Visa

    • Extended period of stay of 5 – 10 years in Indonesia.
    • Eligibility for Indonesian work permits.
    • A simple procedure of stay without having to convert ITAS to ITAP.
    • Multiple Entry mobility.

 

Key Differences Investor KITAS Golden Visa
Validity 1 – 2 years 5 – 10 years
Investment
  • Shares of a PT PMA of IDR 1.25 billion (Foreign Investment Company)
  • Paid-up capital of at least IDR 10 billion in their PT PMA.
  • USD 25 million in a large-sized company in Indonesia.
  • At least USD 50 million in a large-sized company in Indonesia and create a minimum of 10 jobs for Indonesian citizens.
  • A minimum of IDR 2 billion in a government bond.
Benefits
  • Direct control over your Indonesian business operations.
  • Eligibility for Indonesian work permits.
  • Multiple Entry mobility.
  • A path towards an ITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) after a designated time.
  • Extended period of stay of 5 – 10 years in Indonesia.
  • Eligibility for Indonesian work permits.
  • A simple procedure of stay without having to convert ITAS to ITAP.
  • Multiple Entry mobility.

Deciding between the Golden Visa and the Investor KITAS hinges on your specific situation and goals

Golden Visa is ideal for foreign investors with the financial means to meet its high investment requirements. It offers a longer validity period (either 5 or 10 years) compared to the Investor KITAS, and potentially indefinite renewals. This makes the Golden Visa a compelling option if you seek long-term residency in Indonesia.

If the substantial investment threshold of the Golden Visa is out of reach, the Investor KITAS presents a more attainable alternative. It still grants foreign investors residency in Indonesia, although for a shorter term (typically one or two years).

Still unsure?  If you’re struggling to decide which visa best suits your needs, we offer free consultations to help you navigate the process and make an informed decision.

Business Visas General Registration Requirements

Investment Requirements

Indonesia has minimum investment thresholds for foreign investors to qualify for a KITAS. The specific amount can vary based on the industry sector.

Company Establishment

A foreign-owned company (PT PMA) must be formed and registered in Indonesia. This involves having an Indonesian business partner or partners.

Supporting Documentation

  • Valid Passport valid for at least 18 months beyond your intended stay.
  • Company Licenses consist of Articles of Association, proof of capital investment, company registration number (NIB), and shareholder details.
  • Personal Documents include passport photos, curriculum vitae, and a personal statement outlining reasons for investment.
  • A Sponsor Letter from an Indonesian company or individual sponsor is required.
  • RPTKA (Foreign Worker Utilization Plan)

Why Consult with LetsMoveIndonesia?

Navigating Indonesia’s immigration landscape can be complex. At LetsMoveIndonesia, our team of visa experts possess deep knowledge of both the Investor KITAS and Golden Visa programs. We’ll guide you through identifying the optimal visa for your needs, preparing and submitting flawless application packages, and providing ongoing support throughout Indonesian investment.

Don’t hesitate to reach out and we’ll be happy to assist you through your investment journey in Indonesia!

Found this article interesting? Check out our other useful articles about visas here!

Investor KITAS Update 2023: Investment for 2 Years KITAS

Tax in Indonesia 2024 – Your Most Common Questions Answered!

Indonesia Visa Regulation Updates Effective 31 December 2023

Company Registration Indonesia: What is PT, PT PMA or Representative Office

Professional Business & Visa Consultant

Recognised as the Most Ethical Visa & Business Consultancy, Lets Move Indonesia has been the leading business consulting firm in Indonesia since 2016. We aim to be a complete resource for expatriates, giving reliable and professional assistance.

Get Your Free Consultation

Latest News

Get to Know Latest Business & Visa Updates

Applying for an Indonesia Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) has become one of the easiest ways for eligible foreign nationals to prepare for their trip before departure. The online application allows travellers to obtain their visa electronically, reducing queues at the airport and making entry into Indonesia more convenient. However, one small mistake on your […]

Natalia Harfiana

08/07/2026

Indonesia’s immigration system provides several pathways for foreign nationals who need to change their immigration status without immediately departing the country. Depending on the purpose of stay, the current visa held, and the applicable immigration regulations, eligible applicants may be able to apply for a new Indonesian visa through an onshore application process, allowing them […]

Lets Move Indonesia

08/04/2026

Indonesia will require a broad range of products sold in the country to obtain a Halal Certificate from 18 October 2026, marking a major milestone in the Government’s efforts to strengthen the national halal ecosystem and reinforce regulatory compliance for businesses operating in the Indonesian market. The policy, implemented under Government Regulation No. 42 of […]

Lets Move Indonesia

08/03/2026

For many taxpayers in Indonesia, an active Tax Identification Number (Nomor Pokok Wajib Pajak or NPWP) continues to carry tax rights and obligations, even if they are no longer earning income or conducting business. Failing to update your tax status when your circumstances change could lead to unnecessary administrative obligations or future compliance issues. To […]

Lets Move Indonesia

07/30/2026

Indonesia requires anyone driving on public roads to hold a valid license recognised under Indonesian law. The rules differ depending on whether you are visiting as a tourist or residing in Indonesia under a long-term stay permit. This guide explains who needs an Indonesian driving license, whether an International Driving Permit (IDP) is sufficient, and […]

Lets Move Indonesia

07/29/2026

Opening a local bank account is often a legal and operational necessity when establishing a business in another country, as it creates a distinct financial identity for the entity under that jurisdiction’s laws. Beyond compliance, a country-specific business account reduces friction and cost in daily operations. It enables seamless payments to local employees, landlords, and […]

Lets Move Indonesia

07/27/2026