New Indonesia Golden Visa: long-term residency not only for investors

Business owners with a minimum 20% share in a foreign company can establish a business in Indonesia. To obtain a 5-year visa, individuals must invest at least $2.5 million to establish a company in the country. The investment requirement for a 10-year visa is twice as high—$5 million.

Individual investors who do not wish to open a business in Indonesia can invest $350,000 or $700,000 in one of the following options:

• Indonesian government bonds;

• shares in a local public company;

• mutual funds in a publicly listed company.

Company directors or commissioners are eligible for a 5-year residence permit if their corporation invests $25 million to open a business in Indonesia and for a 10-year residence permit with an investment of at least $50 million. The turnover of their overseas business must be $100,000 or more.

Diaspora. Ex-Indonesian citizens can obtain a 5-year visa by investing at least $35,000 in government bonds, shares of a local public company, or mutual funds. The investment threshold for descendants of ex-Indonesian citizens is higher—at least $50,000.

Property investors can apply for a residence permit if they deposit $130,000 or more in a state-owned bank and purchase an apartment in Indonesia worth at least $1 million.

Global talents can get residency in Indonesia through an invitation from the local government. To qualify, the individual must provide proof of sponsorship and expertise, as well as a statement of explanation from the central government or a state institution. Applicants also need to have at least $2,000 to cover monthly living costs.

Public figures. A residence permit may be granted to distinguished foreigners who have made notable contributions to their fields. They must also provide proof of their sponsorship from the central government or a state institution and proof of funds to cover monthly living costs of $5,000 or more.

Retirees. Foreigners over 60 can move to Indonesia if they deposit at least $50,000 in a state-owned bank.

In addition to the investment requirements listed above, foreigners pay an application fee. Most applicants are charged:

• 13 million rupiah, or around $800, for a 5-year visa;

• 19.5 million rupiah, or around $1,200, for a 10-year visa.

The application fee for ex-Indonesian citizens and their descendants is 12 million rupiah, or $740.

Foreigners can submit their application for the Golden Visa in Indonesia on the official website.

1. Extended residency. Golden Visa holders can live and work in Indonesia for 5 or 10 years without the need for frequent renewals. Investors also enjoy streamlined entry procedures and priority access to immigration services at international airports.

2. Business opportunities. With an Indonesia Golden Visa, investors can establish and operate a business in the country. Extended residency allows them to gain a deeper understanding of the Indonesian market, consumer behaviour, and regulatory environment, leading to better business decisions.

3. One of the best countries for expats. Indonesia was ranked third in the InterNations portal’s ranking of the top expat countries for 2024. Indonesia earned its place due to its low living costs, friendly local population, and pleasant work-life balance. The country also became a leader in terms of overall job satisfaction and personal career opportunities.