If you’re heading to Indonesia to showcase your business, present at a trade event, or participate as an exhibitor in a formal business gathering, you’ll need a C11 visa, which is specifically designed for participation in organized business events.
Unlike general tourist or business visit visas, the C11 visa is tailored for foreign participants in business events. It ensures your entry complies with immigration rules, particularly when you’re representing a company, launching a product, or engaging with partners at an event.
In this article, we will walk you through the purpose of the C11 visa, what to prepare before applying, and how to submit your application correctly.
What the C11 visa is for and who can apply
The C11 visa is Indonesia’s official short-stay visa for foreigners participating in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) activities. It explicitly supports business visits tied to exhibitions, product launches, trade shows, and corporate presentations.
This visa is suitable for business professionals who will be actively involved in promoting their organization, whether through:
- Hosting a booth or stand
- Presenting products or services
- Delivering a keynote or panel discussion
- Engaging in official, pre-arranged business interactions
If you’re not employed locally, but your presence is part of a company’s international exposure or expansion strategy, you need the C11 visa.
Read more: Visa in Indonesia: Choose the correct visa for work, travel, or retirement
C11 visa vs business visa
While both the C11 visa and the business visa allow foreign professionals to enter Indonesia, they serve different purposes, and using the wrong visa can lead to complications.
| Feature | C11 visa | Business visa |
| Purpose | Participation in exhibitions, trade shows, or conferences | Business meetings, internal visits, or negotiations |
| Activities allowed | Presenting, exhibiting, promoting products/services | Attending meetings, exploring partnerships |
| Event requirement | Tied to a scheduled formal business event | No need for public event participation |
| Sponsorship | Requires an invitation or sponsor letter from an Indonesian entity | Usually requires a sponsor, but is not tied to an event |
| Type of entry | Single-entry (up to 60 days) | Single or multiple-entry options available |
| Common applicants | Exhibitors, speakers, and company reps at trade events | Business executives, investors, consultants |
C11 visa application requirements
According to Minister of Law and Human Rights Regulation No. 29/2021, the application must reflect the specific intent to participate in an organized business event. Unlike general visas, the C11 requires clear documentation that ties your entry to a formal exhibition or corporate function.
Here are the core requirements typically expected when applying for a C11 visa:
- A valid passport with at least six months’ remaining validity
- A formal invitation or sponsor letter from an Indonesian company or event organizer
- A letter describing your business purpose, such as event participation or product promotion
- A completed visa application form, signed and accurate
- A recent passport-style photo, per visa requirements
- Proof of sufficient funds, like a bank statement
- Flight details showing entry and exit timing
It’s important to note that event organizers in Indonesia typically do not handle visa processing for participants. The responsibility falls entirely on the applicant, so preparing these documents early is essential.
How to apply for the C11 visa
With your documents ready, the application process is simple but must be handled precisely. The C11 visa is a single-entry visa, typically valid for up to 60 days, and should be obtained well in advance of your event.
- Choose where to apply: Submit your application via the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your country, or through the official e-visa platform, depending on your location.
- Submit your documents: Include your passport, event invitation, purpose letter, and supporting documents. Ensure all names and dates match across paperwork.
- Pay the visa fee: Payment methods may vary; some locations accept card payments, while others require transfers. Confirm this beforehand.
- Wait for processing: Processing time varies, but 5 to 10 business days is common. Apply at least two to three weeks before your intended travel.
- Receive and review your visa: Once approved, verify its accuracy, especially the visa type, entry date, and name.
Staying organized and applying early makes the process much easier.
Common mistakes to avoid when applying for a C11 visa
Even when the process seems straightforward, a few oversights can lead to delays or denials. The C11 visa is specific in scope, and immigration officials expect that all submitted information reflects a clear business purpose tied to a scheduled event.
Here are some of the most common mistakes applicants make:
- Applying for the wrong visa type: If you’re exhibiting or presenting, only the C11 visa applies.
- Incomplete invitation letters: Clearly state the event details and your role.
- Inconsistent information: Make sure names, dates, and purposes match across all documents.
- Waiting too long to apply: Give yourself at least two to three weeks before your travel date.
- Relying on event organizers: Visa processing is your responsibility, not the organizer’s.
Many of these issues can be avoided with proper guidance, such as support from InCorp, which helps ensure your C11 visa application is prepared correctly and submitted in line with current requirements, simplifying the process for you.
Guide to Doing Business in Jakarta
Simplify your C11 visa process with InCorp
With proper preparation and accurate documentation, obtaining a C11 visa can be a smooth process. InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) provides full support to help you feel confident and reassured throughout your application journey, ensuring it meets all legal requirements.
In addition to the C11 visa, InCorp also assists foreign professionals with a range of other Indonesian visas, including:
- Business visit visas (single or multiple entry)
- Investor KITAS
- Work permits
- Pre-investment visa (D12)
Fill out the form below to begin your visa application and ensure a smooth entry into Indonesia for your business event.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is choosing the correct Indonesia visa important?
Selecting the right visa prevents entry denials, fines, or deportation. Each visa type has specific rules, durations, and permitted activities.
What are the main types of visas in Indonesia?
Common types include Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Work KITAS, Family KITAS, Retirement KITAS, Student Visa, and Investor/Golden Visa.
How do I know which visa suits my purpose?
Match your goal with the visa type—tourism (VOA), business meetings (Business Visa), work (KITAS), or investment (Investor Visa).
What documents are required for an Indonesia visa?
You’ll typically need a valid passport, photo, return ticket, completed form, proof of funds, and visa fee receipt.
What mistakes should foreigners avoid when applying for a visa in Indonesia?
Avoid using the wrong visa type, overstaying, or applying through unverified sponsors or agents—these can lead to penalties or deportation.
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Disclaimer
The information is provided by PT. Cekindo Business International (“InCorp Indonesia/ we”) for general purpose only and we make no representations or warranties of any kind.
We do not act as an authorized government or non-government provider for official documents and services, which is issued by the Government of the Republic of Indonesia or its appointed officials. We do not promote any official government document or services of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, including but not limited to, business identifiers, health and welfare assistance programs and benefits, unclaimed tax rebate, electronic travel visa and authorization, passports in this website.
Verified by
Hotdo Nauli
Senior Legal & Delivery Manager at InCorp Indonesia
Hotdo heads the Legal and Delivery team at InCorp Indonesia, managing Product Registration, Legal Advisory, and Business Licensing. With over 8 years of experience, she focuses on compliance and integrity, ensuring all client operations align with Indonesian laws and regulatory standards, including contract reviews and sector-specific licenses. She is also a licensed advocate and a member of the Indonesian Advocates Association (PERADI).
