Planning to stay longer in Bali but your visa is about to expire? You’re not alone. Many foreigners face the same challenge when waiting for their new visa to be processed.
That’s where the Bridging Visa comes in—a simple, legal way to stay in Indonesia for up to 60 more days without having to leave the country.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the Bridging Visa is, who can apply, and the easy steps to get it approved. By the end of the article, you can extend your Bali stay smoothly and stress-free.
Key Takeaways
- The Bridging Visa (Transitional Residence Permit) lets foreigners stay in Indonesia for up to 60 days while waiting for a new visa.
- Eligible applicants include holders of VoA, ITAS, or ITAP, who must apply at least 3 days before their current permit expires.
- The visa costs IDR 3,000,000 and typically takes about 5 working days to process.
- Applications can be done via evisa.imigrasi.go.id or through local immigration offices in Bali such as Denpasar, Jimbaran, and Singaraja.
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What is an Indonesian Bridging Visa?
The Bridging Visa, also known as the Transitional Residence Permit, is your solution for seamlessly extending your stay in Indonesia up to 60 days. It acts as a temporary permit that helps you stay legally in the country during the transition period.
Introduced by the Indonesian government in 2024 and officially regulated under Permenkumham No. 11/2024, this policy aims to make immigration processes smoother—especially for Golden Visa holders.
With this visa, individuals holding a Limited Stay Permit (ITAS) or Permanent Stay Permit (ITAP) can switch to a new type of permit without leaving Indonesia. Even travelers entering with a Visa on Arrival (VoA) through the e-visa platform or mobile app can now apply for an ITAS while staying in the country.
Read More: Second Home Visa: A Must Have for Long-Term Stay in Bali
Who’s Eligible for Bridging Visa Indonesia Application?
Not everyone can get this transitional stay permit. According to article 94A(1) of Permenkumham 11/2024, this temporary permit is only for certain foreigners who meet specific conditions:
- Foreign nationals must be physically present in Indonesia.
- The application must be submitted from within Indonesia by the foreign national, their guarantor, or their person in charge, and addressed to the Director General of Immigration.
- The previous stay permit must still be valid, and the application must be submitted at least 3 days before it expires.
- If the application is submitted and the immigration fee is paid before the stay permit expires, you will not be considered overstaying even if the processing takes longer than the validity period of the previous permit.
This type of application can only be submitted by foreign nationals who meet the requirements:
- Holders of a Visit Stay Permit obtained from a Visa on Arrival (VoA);
- Holders of a Limited Stay Permit (ITAS); or
- Holders of a Permanent Stay Permit (ITAP).
Indonesia Bridging Visa Requirements
In addition, several supporting documents must be provided as required:
- A valid passport;
- A valid Visit Stay Permit, Limited Stay Permit, or Permanent Stay Permit;
- Proof of sponsorship, if the foreigner has a guarantor; and
- A statement explaining the purpose of applying for a Visit Stay Permit as part of the immigration stay transition process.
Read More: How Foreigners Can Get a Mortgage in Indonesia
How to Apply for an Indonesian Bridging Visa
- Submit the application form through the official e-visa website: evisa.imigrasi.go.id
- Make the required immigration payment.
- Wait for approval from the Director General of Immigration.
- Once approved, your Bridging Visa will be issued.
As mentioned earlier, the application must be submitted at least 3 days before your current stay permit expires. The immigration fee must be paid on time as well.
Read More: Want to Live in Bali Long-Term? Here’s The Best Place to Build Your Villa
Where to Extend Your Visa in Bali
You can do it online or visit one of these immigration offices:
- Ngurah Rai Immigration Office (Denpasar): Jl. I Gusti Ngurah Rai, Tuban, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361
- Jimbaran Immigration Office: Jl. Raya Uluwatu No. 83, Jimbaran, Kuta Selatan, Badung Regency, Bali 80361
- Singaraja Immigration Office: Jl. Udayana No. 2, Singaraja, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81116
- Online: Visit https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/
Tips for a Smooth Visa Extension Process
Extending your visa in Bali isn’t too hard, but like any official process, it can take a bit of time. To avoid stress and delays, here are a few simple tips:
- Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute! Try to begin the process at least one week before your visa expires.
- Consider using an agent: If you’re short on time or don’t want to deal with the paperwork, a visa agent can handle it for you. It does cost more, but it can save you the hassle.
- Have your documents ready: Double-check that you have everything you need, like your passport, current visa, and any other required forms. Missing documents can slow things down.
- Follow up if needed: If it’s been a few days and you haven’t heard back, it’s okay to check on your application status either online or at the immigration office.
Also, keep in mind that visa rules can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest info or ask a trusted agent before starting the process.
Read More: What to Know Before Moving to Bali: A Real First-Timer’s Experience
FAQ
1. How long does the Indonesian bridging visa process take?
The process for obtaining an Indonesian bridging visa usually takes around 5 working days, though it may take longer if your application is missing any required documents.
2. Where is Indonesia visa-free?
Indonesian passport holders can visit several Southeast Asian countries without a visa, including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Europe, America, and Africa.
3. How much is the bridging visa for Indonesia?
The Indonesian Bridging Visa fee is IDR 3,000,000 and is valid for 60 days.
4. How long is the residence permit for foreign nationals in Indonesia?
Foreign nationals (WNA) can stay in Indonesia for various periods depending on their type of stay permit, ranging from a few days to several years:
- 30 days for Visa on Arrival (VoA) or B1 visa, extendable once
- 60 days for a C1 visa, extendable several times up to 180 days in total
- Limited Stay Permit (ITAS) valid for up to 2 years, extendable
- Permanent Stay Permit (ITAP) valid for up to 5 years, extendable
Conclusion
The Indonesia Bridging Visa is what you need if you planning a longer stay in Bali. Remember to apply at least 3 days before your current visa expires to avoid any further issue.
If you want a more comfortable long-term stay in Bali, consider living in a private villa. Many expats prefer villas over hotels because they offer more privacy, lower long-term costs, and the opportunity to own a property that can also be a smart investment.
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