Guide to Obtaining ITAS and ITAP for Foreign Workers (TKA) in Indonesia | 2025

In 2025, regulations regarding Limited Stay Permits (ITAS) and Permanent Stay Permits (ITAP) for foreign workers (TKA) in Indonesia remain an important aspect of immigration policy. This article will discuss how to apply for ITAS and ITAP, including procedures, requirements, and the latest applicable regulations.

What are ITAS and ITAP?

Limited Stay Permit or Izin Tinggal Sementara (ITAS) is a permit granted to foreigners who work, invest, or have other interests in Indonesia for a specific period. ITAS can be extended and, in certain conditions, converted into ITAP.

Permanent Stay Permit Izin Tinggal Tetap (ITAP) is a permit that allows foreigners to reside in Indonesia more permanently. ITAP is granted after meeting specific criteria, including holding an ITAS for a certain period.

How to Apply for ITAS for Foreign Workers (TKA)

The ITAS application must be submitted by the foreign worker or their sponsor to the Head of the Immigration Office within the jurisdiction where the foreigner resides.

ITAS Requirements for Foreign Workers

• Guarantee letter from the company or institution employing the foreign worker.

• Valid passport from the applicant's home country.

• Recommendation letter from a relevant government agency or institution.

• Work permit documents as required by Indonesian labor regulations.

  
  

ITAS Application Procedure

1. Submit the application via the official immigration system or directly visit the local immigration office.

2. Provide all required documents.

3. Immigration officers will verify the completeness of the application.

4. If approved, within a maximum of 4 working days, ITAS will be issued in the form of:

   • Virtual KITAS, sent electronically.

   • Printed KITAS, issued by immigration officers at the Directorate General of Immigration.

Note: The ITAS application must be submitted within 30 days of the foreigner’s arrival. Failure to comply will result in a fine per the applicable regulations.

Converting ITAS to ITAP for Foreign Workers

Foreign workers who wish to obtain an ITAP can apply for status conversion from ITAS to ITAP by meeting specific requirements.

Requirements for ITAS to ITAP Conversion

1. Valid passport from the applicant's home country.

2. Statement of integration, except for children under 18 years old who are unmarried.

3. Valid ITAS.

4. Guarantee letter from the employer or sponsor.

5. ID card (KTP) and/or Family Card (KK) of the sponsor (if applicable).

6. Additional supporting documents, such as:

   • Company legality documents.

   • Valid work permit authorization.

   • Latest financial reports.

   • Latest company and property tax documents.

   • Recent income proof or share ownership.

   • Latest bond certificates, etc.

     
     

Important Considerations

• ITAS cannot be converted to ITAP if the foreigner has not fulfilled the required commitments set during the initial ITAS application.

• ITAS to ITAP conversion for workers, religious personnel, foreign investors, and second-home visa holders is only granted if they have resided in Indonesia for at least three consecutive years since receiving their first ITAS.

  
  

Direct ITAP Application Without ITAS Conversion

Some categories of foreigners can obtain ITAP without first holding an ITAS, including:

• Former dual citizens of Indonesia who choose foreign citizenship.

• Children born in Indonesia to ITAP holders.

• Indonesians who lost their citizenship while residing in Indonesia.

  
  

Direct ITAP Application Requirements

1. Valid passport from the applicant’s home country.

2. Guarantee letter or immigration guarantee.

3. Statement of integration (not required for unmarried children under 18).

4. Supporting documents explaining the applicant’s status or purpose of residence in Indonesia.

Note: Once all requirements are met, ITAP will be issued within a maximum of 4 working days by the Head of the Immigration Office.

For foreign workers (TKA), investors, and other individuals wishing to reside in Indonesia long-term, understanding the regulations and following the correct procedures will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free stay in Indonesia. ITAS and ITAP are essential permits that must be obtained in compliance with the latest 2025 regulations. The process is now more streamlined through digitalized immigration services, but strict documentation and requirements must still be fulfilled.