Indonesia’s immigration framework has become increasingly flexible in recent years, particularly for foreigners who wish to remain in the country while transitioning to a different visa category. Since the introduction of the Bridging Visa policy in 2024, eligible foreign nationals have gained a practical pathway to change their immigration status without having to leave Indonesia and re-enter on a new visa.
For expatriates, investors, remote professionals, retirees, and long-term visitors, the Bridging Visa has significantly simplified the process of moving from a visit visa to a stay permit, reducing travel costs, administrative burdens, and disruptions to personal or business plans.
If you are currently holding a visit visa and planning to stay in Indonesia longer without leaving Indonesia, understanding how the Bridging Visa works may help you transition smoothly to a new immigration status.
What Is a Bridging Visa?
The Bridging Visa is available to foreigners who are already in Indonesia and hold a valid immigration permit. Eligible applicants include holders of:
- Visa on Arrival (VoA)
- Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA)
- Single Entry Tourist Visa (C1 / former B211A Tourism)
- Single Entry Business Visa (C2)
- Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (D1)
- Multiple Entry Business Visa (D2)
- Pre-Investment Visa (D12)
- Existing ITAS holders seeking a change of status
- ITAS holders applying for an ITAP
After receiving the Bridging Visa, applicants may remain in Indonesia for an additional 60 days from the date of issuance. Within the first 29 days, applicants may also begin the process of converting to a new ITAS without leaving Indonesia.
Common Conversion Scenarios
Currently, eligible onshore KITAS conversions include:
| Bridging Visa Conversion Options |
| Investor KITAS |
| Work KITAS |
| Student KITAS |
| Family Dependent KITAS |
| Nomad KITAS* |
*As of March 2026, the Nomad KITAS can also be processed onshore. The Second Home Visa remains subject to offshore processing requirements.
For existing KITAS holders, the Bridging Visa may also function as part of the KITAS closure process. Once the Bridging Visa is issued:
- The previous KITAS is formally cancelled (similar to an EPO process).
- No separate EPO application is required.
- Applicants may apply for a different KITAS category within the first 29 days.
- The same KITAS category that was just closed cannot be re-applied for through this route.
- If no new KITAS is obtained during the 60-day period, the foreign national must depart Indonesia before the Bridging Visa expires.
Once approved, applicants may obtain a full ITAS valid for one to two years, depending on the visa category being applied for.
Why Choose the Bridging Visa?
Rather than arranging international travel, securing new entry permissions, and coordinating offshore applications, eligible applicants can complete the process while remaining legally in Indonesia.
Key Advantages
- Stay in Indonesia during the conversion process
- Avoid international travel costs
- Reduce administrative complexity
- Minimise disruptions to work and personal commitments
- Transition directly to an ITAS or ITAP
- Maintain a continuous legal immigration status
How Long Does the Bridging Visa Last?
The Bridging Visa is generally granted for a period of 60 days.
This period serves as a temporary legal stay while immigration authorities process the applicant’s new visa or permit application.
During this time, applicants remain legally present in Indonesia and do not need to leave the country solely for immigration purposes.
The exact validity period and conditions may vary depending on the immigration category being processed.
How to Apply for a Bridging Visa
The application process is handled through Indonesia’s immigration system and should be initiated at least 3 days before the applicant’s current permit expires.
Application Process for a New Bridging Visa
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Review your current immigration status and determine whether it qualifies for a Bridging Visa conversion.
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Applicants must gather the documents required for the new visa category being requested.
This procedure may include:
- Passport
- Sponsor documents
- Company documents
- Investment documents
- Employment approvals
- Additional immigration forms
Step 3: Submit Through the E-Visa System
The application is submitted electronically through Indonesia’s e-Visa platform.
The Bridging Visa request is processed together with the application for the new immigration status.
Step 4: Await Issuance
Once approved, the Bridging Visa is issued, allowing the foreign national to remain in Indonesia while the new permit is finalised.
Processing times may vary, although applications are commonly reviewed within a few working days.
Types of Visas That Can Be Supported by a Bridging Visa
Single Entry Visa to ITAS
Many foreigners initially enter Indonesia using a Single Entry Visa before deciding to establish a business, work, invest, or retire in the country.
The Bridging Visa allows them to remain in Indonesia while converting to an ITAS.
Multiple Entry Visa to ITAS
Business travellers who frequently visit Indonesia may later decide to pursue a longer-term immigration option.
A Bridging Visa may facilitate this transition without requiring departure from Indonesia.
Visa on Arrival (VoA) to ITAS
Depending on eligibility and immigration policies in effect at the time of application, certain VoA holders may be able to utilise the Bridging Visa pathway when applying for an ITAS.
ITAS to ITAP
Foreign nationals who qualify for permanent stay status may use the Bridging Visa process when transitioning from an ITAS to an ITAP.
Common Situations Where a Bridging Visa Is Useful
| Situation | Benefit |
| Investor establishing a company | Convert directly to Investor ITAS |
| Foreigner receiving a job offer | Transition to Work ITAS |
| Retiree planning long-term residence | Convert to Retirement ITAS |
| Spouse of an Indonesian citizen | Apply for Family ITAS |
| Long-term resident qualifying for ITAP | Remain in Indonesia during processing |
Common Questions
Can I Apply for a KITAS While Holding a Bridging Visa?
Yes. During the first 29 days of the Bridging Visa validity period, eligible applicants may apply for a new KITAS without leaving Indonesia, provided there are at least 31 days remaining on the Bridging Visa.
Can the Bridging Visa Be Extended?
No. The Bridging Visa is a one-time 60-day permit and cannot be renewed or extended.
Do I Need to Leave Indonesia After My Bridging Visa Expires?
Yes, unless you have successfully obtained a new ITAS or ITAP. If no new immigration status is approved during the Bridging Visa period, you must leave Indonesia before the permit expires.
Process Your Bridging Visa with Lets Move Indonesia
Navigating Indonesian immigration regulations can be complex, particularly when changing visa categories or applying for long-term stay permits.
At Lets Move Indonesia, we assist foreign nationals with every stage of the Bridging Visa process, from eligibility assessments and application preparation to ITAS and ITAP conversions.
Our services include:
- Bridging Visa applications
- ITAS conversions
- Investor ITAS applications
- Work on ITAS processing
- Family and Retirement ITAS
- ITAP applications
- Immigration compliance support
Whether you are looking to stay in Indonesia longer, convert a visit visa into an ITAS, or transition to permanent residency, our consultants can help ensure the process is completed efficiently and in accordance with current immigration regulations.
