With its vibrant culture and welcoming atmosphere, Indonesia is a dream destination for many retirees. However, if you’re considering making Bali your golden years haven, obtaining a retirement visa in Indonesia is the first step.
Why should you retire in Bali?
With its beautiful view and rich cultural heritage, Bali presents an enticing prospect worth considering for retirees. Here are several compelling reasons why Bali stands out as an ideal retirement destination:
Cost-effective living
Bali offers a low cost of living, which allows retirees to support a comfortable lifestyle without putting their financial resources to the test.
Scenic natural beauty and favorable climate
The island’s unparalleled natural beauty, characterized by stunning beaches and a tropical climate, gives retirees an idyllic setting to enjoy each day.
Cultural richness and warm hospitality
Bali’s vibrant culture, steeped in tradition and spirituality, coupled with the warmth and hospitality of its locals, fosters a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for retirees.
Diverse lifestyle options
Bali has something for everyone’s retirement lifestyle, from peaceful rural villages to lively beach towns with amenities and activities.
Understanding retirement visa in Indonesia
If you’re considering retiring in Bali, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the retirement visa in Indonesia; here’s an overview:
A retirement visa in Indonesia is necessary for foreign individuals aged 55 or above looking to retire in Indonesia. This visa category permits an extended stay in the country. Once granted, this visa allows for multiple entries and exits, enabling retirees to visit their home country as needed while maintaining their residency in Indonesia.
Read more: An in-depth guide to extending your Bali visa
Retirement visa Indonesia vs KITAP
In Indonesia, there are two main types of visas relevant to long-term stays: the retirement visa (Retirement KITAS) and the KITAP (Kartu Izin Tinggal Tetap), which is a permanent stay permit.
| Retirement visa (Retirement KITAS) | KITAP (Permanent stay permit) |
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Retirees who don’t plan to stay in Indonesia for a long time or have simpler residency needs can obtain a retirement visa more quickly than a KITAP, which has more requirements.
On the other hand, the KITAP provides a more permanent residency solution for those who intend to settle in Indonesia longer. KITAP holders have more flexibility regarding work and business opportunities, while retirement visa holders are generally not allowed to work.
Requirements for obtaining a retirement visa in Bali
To be eligible for a retirement visa, you must meet the following criteria:
| 1-year retirement visa | 5-year retirement visa | |
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Benefits of retiring in Bali
Having a KITAS for retirement purposes, which is initially valid for one year and can be extended up to five times, offers several advantages and conveniences that enhance life in Bali significantly. It eliminates the need to leave the country for regular visa renewals.
Here are some benefits of the retirement visa in Bali:
- Ability to open a bank account
- Eligibility to obtain a local driving license
- Access to MERP (Multiple Exit Re-Permit)
- Option to purchase a vehicle under your name
- Entitlement to local prices and discounts
The process to obtain your retirement visa in Bali
If you plan to obtain a retirement visa in Bali, here is the list of required documents you have to prepare:
- Four passport photos
- Copies of all passport pages
- Health insurance certificate from either the country of origin or Indonesia covering medical expenses in Bali
- The rental agreement for a property in Bali
- Declaration stating the employment of an Indonesian assistant, household worker, etc., while residing in Bali
- A statement confirming no engagement in any business activities or work in Indonesia
- Curriculum vitae
After you prepare all the required documents, you need to go through these application processes:
- Eligibility and financial check: Confirm you meet the age and income requirements.
- Health insurance: Secure health insurance that meets local regulations.
- Application submission: Complete forms and submit the required documents to Indonesian immigration authorities.
- Review and interview: Immigration will review your application and may request an interview.
- Visa approval and renewal: Upon approval, receive your visa and follow renewal procedures to extend your stay.
Guide to Doing Business in Bali & Lombok
Let InCorp handle your retirement visa
With over a decade of experience in market entry, our team specializes in assisting individuals in obtaining their retirement visas and guiding them through intricate bureaucratic procedures.
Whether you need help navigating the complex paperwork or obtaining a retirement visa in Bali, our specialists are here to provide expert assistance. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for further information and support.
David Susandi
Branch Manager – Bali Office at InCorp Indonesia
Leading the way at InCorp’s Bali office is David, the Branch Manager. His extensive career, which exceeds a decade, has seen him flourish in roles that include project management, operations leadership, and strategic corporate planning
David has been on the board of many entrepreneurial organizations. He is a member of HIPMI (Himpunan Pengusaha Muda Indonesia), BPD Bali, and the President of JCI (Junior Chamber International) Badung, Bali in 2019. He holds a diploma in Russian Culture Studies from the University of Padjadjaran, Bandung.
