KITAS stay permits to go electronic

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? In the transition to an online system, immigration authorities will no longer issue physical cards representing stay permits (KITAS).

What does the change mean? Applicants will instead receive their stay permit by email (e-ITAS) and will need to print them out and carry them at all times.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: KITAS and e-ITAS.
• Who is affected: Companies and foreign nationals applying for stay permits.
• Business impact: Assignees should be informed that they will not be issued a physical card and are responsible for printing out their e-ITAS and carrying it with them at all times.

Background: This change is related to the transition to an online application system for stay permits.

BAL Analysis: Some Immigration Offices are continuing to issue the paper cards until their stock is used up, but it is unclear how long this will last, and foreign assignees should prepare for the electronic version to replace paper cards. Additionally, Immigration Offices are allowing companies to send a third-party agent to pay the government filing fees, rather than requiring an authorized company representative; however, it is unclear whether the Director General of Immigration will allow this to continue. Employers and applicants should be aware that Indonesia is undergoing many changes to its immigration policies and practices, and circumstances are changing daily. BAL is closely monitoring these changes and will report all relevant developments as the situation stabilizes.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Indonesia. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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