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 to remain in Indonesia without travelling outside the country.
However, not every visa can be converted internally. In certain situations, foreign nationals may first need to complete the EPO process before applying for another visa or leaving Indonesia. Understanding when an onshore application is available—and when an Exit Permit Only is required—is an important part of remaining compliant with Indonesian Immigration regulations.
This guide explains how onshore visa applications work, when an Exit Permit Only (EPO) is required, and how Lets Move Indonesia can assist throughout the immigration process.
Can You Apply for an Indonesian Visa Without Leaving Indonesia?
Yes. In many cases, foreign nationals may apply for a new visa without leaving Indonesia, provided they meet the eligibility requirements established by the Directorate General of Immigration.
Known as an onshore application, this process allows an applicant to change from one immigration status to another while remaining legally in Indonesia. The availability of an onshore conversion depends on the current visa type, the intended purpose of stay, and the applicable immigration regulations.
For example, a visitor who plans to remain in Indonesia for employment may be eligible to transition to a Work KITAS, while an investor establishing a company may apply for an Investor KITAS, subject to sponsorship and document requirements.
Before submitting an application, applicants should ensure that their current passport and immigration document remain valid, as expired permits may affect eligibility.
When Do You Need an Exit Permit Only (EPO)?
An Exit Permit Only (EPO) is an immigration clearance issued to KITAS or KITAP holders who intend to end their stay permit before leaving Indonesia or changing to another immigration status.
The EPO formally closes the existing stay permit within Indonesia’s immigration system. Without completing this administrative step, the previous permit may remain active, potentially affecting future visa applications.
An EPO is commonly required when:
- A foreign employee resigns from employment and their Work KITAS is cancelled.
- A foreign national changes to a different visa category requiring cancellation of the existing KITAS.
- A sponsor withdraws sponsorship.
- A foreigner permanently departs Indonesia before the expiry of their stay permit.
Obtaining the correct exit permit helps ensure future immigration applications proceed smoothly.
Exit Permit Only (EPO)
The Exit Permit Only (EPO) is issued by Indonesian Immigration after the cancellation of a Limited Stay Permit (KITAS) or Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP).
Once the EPO has been approved, the foreigner is generally required to leave Indonesia within the period specified by Immigration. Failure to depart before the deadline may result in administrative sanctions.
After leaving Indonesia under an EPO, the applicant may return to Indonesia using another visa, provided they have completed the required visa application process and obtained the appropriate immigration approval.
For many expatriates changing employment, changing sponsors, or relocating, the EPO serves as the final step before beginning a new immigration application.
Learn more about EPO
Exit Re Entry Permit (ERP & MERP)
Unlike an Exit Permit Only, an Exit Re-Entry Permit (ERP) or Multiple Exit Re-Entry Permit (MERP) allows eligible KITAS or KITAP holders to temporarily leave Indonesia and later return to Indonesia without cancelling their stay permit.
This option is particularly useful for foreign nationals who need to travel internationally for business or personal reasons while maintaining their existing immigration status.
Choosing between an EPO and an ERP or MERP depends on whether the applicant intends to continue using their current KITAS or permanently terminate it.
More about Exit and Entry Permit in Indonesia
Changing to a Work KITAS: Required Additional Documents
If you are changing your immigration status to a Work KITAS, additional requirements apply. Besides the standard immigration documents, applicants must provide supporting documents issued by the sponsoring company, including an approved RPTKA (Foreign Manpower Utilisation Plan) and comply with the relevant IMTA or current work authorisation requirements.
The required documents and service process may vary depending on the type of KITAS being applied for. Existing KITAS holders changing sponsors or employment should ensure their current Temporary Stay Permit remains valid throughout the application. Our consultants can assist with preparing the necessary supporting documents and coordinating the application process to ensure compliance with Indonesian immigration regulations.
Requirements to apply for Working Visa KITAS
Documents Required for an Onshore Visa Applications
The required documents vary depending on the visa category and immigration history of the applicant.
Applicants may generally be asked to provide:
- A valid passport
- Current Indonesian immigration document (KITAS, KITAP, or visa)
- Sponsor documents, where applicable
- Application forms
- Supporting administrative documents
- Additional documentation requested by Immigration
Depending on the visa category, applicants may also need to submit employment documents, company documents, or family relationship certificates.
Preparing complete documentation before beginning the application can help minimise delays during the immigration process.
A Practical Example
A foreign employee holding a Work KITAS who resigns from their company cannot simply begin working for another employer using the same permit.
The existing sponsor must first cancel the Work KITAS through an Exit Permit Only (EPO) or another applicable immigration procedure. The new employer can then begin the application for a new sponsored Work KITAS.
Similarly, an investor changing from a visitor visa to an Investor KITAS may be eligible for an onshore application, depending on current immigration policies and supporting documentation.
Obtain Professional Immigration Assistance with Lets Move Indonesia
Whether you are planning to change your visa, apply for a Work KITAS, obtain an Exit Permit Only, or determine whether you can remain in Indonesia without leaving the country, understanding the correct immigration procedure is essential.
Our experienced consultants work closely with foreign nationals, employers, and investors to ensure each application is processed in accordance with Indonesian Immigration regulations.
Speak with our consultants today and claim your complimentary one-hour consultation.
