Can Dependents (Spouse/Children) Get KITAS in Bali?

Moving to Bali has become an attractive choice for many foreigners looking to live, work, invest, or retire in Indonesia. Whether you are relocating for business or lifestyle, securing the right visa is the most important step. For those who already hold a KITAS (Limited Stay Permit) in Bali, the next question often arises: Can dependents such as a spouse or children also obtain a KITAS?

The answer is yes. Spouses and children of KITAS holders are eligible to apply for a dependent KITAS, which allows them to legally reside in Indonesia for the duration of the main KITAS holder’s permit. Understanding the process, eligibility requirements, and benefits can make the transition smoother for families moving together.

At Bali Visas Online, we specialize in helping expatriates and their families navigate Indonesian immigration regulations with ease. Below is a detailed guide explaining how dependents can obtain their KITAS in Bali.

What is a Dependent KITAS?

A dependent KITAS is a residence permit issued to the legal dependents of a foreigner who already holds a valid KITAS in Indonesia. Dependents typically include:

• The legal spouse (husband or wife).

• Children under 18 years old.

This permit does not grant dependents the right to work in Indonesia, but it does allow them to legally reside in the country, access healthcare, enroll children in schools, and enjoy the same residency benefits as the main KITAS holder.

Who Qualifies as a Dependent?

The Indonesian immigration system recognizes only immediate family members as dependents under a KITAS. That means:

1. Spouse – If you are legally married to the main KITAS holder, you are eligible. Proof of marriage, such as a legalized marriage certificate, is required.

2. Children – Minors under 18 years of age can apply. Birth certificates must be provided as proof of relationship.

Other family members such as parents, siblings, or extended relatives are not eligible under the dependent KITAS category.

Requirements for a Dependent KITAS in Bali

When applying for a dependent KITAS, certain documents and conditions must be met. Although requirements can vary depending on the applicant’s nationality or specific immigration policies at the time, the general requirements include:

• Valid passport of the dependent (minimum validity of 18 months recommended).

• Copy of the main KITAS holder’s valid KITAS and passport.

• Legalized marriage certificate (for spouse).

• Legalized birth certificate (for children).

• Proof of family relationship translated into Indonesian if required.

• Sponsorship from the main KITAS holder’s company or sponsor.

• Completed application forms provided by immigration.

• Recent passport-sized photographs in color.

Each document must meet the standards set by Indonesian immigration authorities, and in some cases legalization or translation into Bahasa Indonesia is necessary.

How Long is a Dependent KITAS Valid?

The validity of a dependent KITAS is tied directly to the main KITAS holder’s permit. This means:

• If the main KITAS is valid for one year, the dependent KITAS will also be valid for one year.

• If the main KITAS is extended, the dependent KITAS can also be extended accordingly.

Dependents are not required to leave the country while the main KITAS holder renews or extends their permit, as long as the application process is properly handled.

The Process of Applying for a Dependent KITAS in Bali

Applying for a dependent KITAS involves several steps. While it may seem complicated, working with a professional visa agency such as Bali Visas Online ensures the process is handled smoothly. Here’s what to expect:

1. Document Collection – Gather all required documents including passports, marriage/birth certificates, and the sponsor’s details.

2. Submission to Immigration – The application is submitted to the local immigration office in Bali.

3. Approval Process – Immigration reviews the application and supporting documents.

4. Visa Conversion – If dependents enter on another visa type (such as a social or tourist visa), this must be converted into a KITAS.

5. Biometrics Appointment – Dependents may need to attend an appointment for fingerprints and photos at the immigration office.

6. KITAS Issuance – Once approved, the dependent KITAS is issued and recorded in the passport.

Benefits of a Dependent KITAS

Obtaining a dependent KITAS provides multiple benefits for spouses and children, making family relocation to Bali much easier. These include:

• Legal Residency – Dependents can legally live in Bali for the same duration as the main KITAS holder.

• Access to Education – Children can be enrolled in international or local schools.

• Healthcare Access – Dependents can access medical facilities and health insurance coverage within Indonesia.

• Ease of Travel – Multiple-entry privileges allow dependents to travel in and out of Indonesia without complications.

• Family Unity – Families can stay together legally without risk of overstaying visas.

Restrictions of a Dependent KITAS

While the dependent KITAS offers many benefits, it also comes with restrictions. The main limitation is that dependent KITAS holders are not allowed to work in Indonesia.

If a spouse wishes to work, they must obtain a separate work permit and KITAS sponsored by an employer. Similarly, dependents cannot engage in business activities or freelance work without the proper permits.

Common Questions About Dependent KITAS in Bali

1. Can my unmarried partner apply for a dependent KITAS?
No. Indonesian immigration only recognizes legal spouses and children under 18 years old as dependents.

2. What happens when my child turns 18?
Once a child reaches 18 years of age, they are no longer eligible for a dependent KITAS. They must apply for another type of visa such as a student visa or an independent KITAS if eligible.

3. Can I convert a tourist visa to a dependent KITAS?
Yes, in most cases, tourist or social visas can be converted, but it requires additional steps and approval from immigration authorities.

4. Can my spouse or children leave Indonesia while holding a dependent KITAS?
Yes. The KITAS allows multiple entries, so dependents can travel in and out of Indonesia freely during its validity.

Why Work with Bali Visas Online?

Applying for a dependent KITAS can be overwhelming due to the number of documents, translations, and approvals required. Bali Visas Online helps by:

• Ensuring all documents meet Indonesian immigration requirements.

• Handling the application process directly with local authorities.

• Providing updates and guidance at every step.

• Offering reliable advice for future renewals and extensions.

Our goal is to make the relocation process stress-free for families, ensuring that dependents are legally secured in Bali.

Step-by-Step Example of Family Relocation with KITAS

Imagine a foreign investor who secures an Investor KITAS to establish a business in Bali. His wife and two children accompany him. Without dependent KITAS permits, they would be required to leave the country once their tourist visas expire.

By applying for dependent KITAS for his family:

• His wife can stay with him for the full duration of his Investor KITAS.

• His children can legally attend school in Bali.

• The family can enjoy a stable life without worrying about visa expiration dates.

This example highlights the importance of dependent KITAS for families relocating together.

Keeping Your Family’s Stay Legal and Comfortable

Relocating to Bali as a family requires careful planning, especially when it comes to visas and permits. By securing dependent KITAS for spouses and children, expatriates can ensure that their loved ones enjoy the same residency rights and stability as they do.

With proper guidance and professional assistance, the process becomes straightforward, allowing families to focus on building their lives in Bali without immigration concerns.

So, can dependents such as spouses and children get a KITAS in Bali? Absolutely. As long as the main KITAS holder maintains a valid permit, their family members are eligible for dependent KITAS, making it possible to live together legally in Indonesia.

At Bali Visas Online, we are committed to helping expatriates and their families every step of the way. From document preparation to final approval, our team ensures that your spouse and children can enjoy a secure, legal, and comfortable life in Bali.