Complete Guide to Student Visa Requirements for Studying in Indonesia

r123-share-title

Understanding the student visa requirements for studying in Indonesia is essential for international students planning to pursue academic programs in this diverse and culturally rich country.

Indonesia welcomes thousands of students from Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East each year, offering world-class education in universities located in cities such as Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya.

To study legally, applicants must secure the appropriate visa type, obtain university sponsorship, and meet documentation and financial requirements as set by immigration and education authorities.

The process involves several steps, from admission and visa approval to residence permit conversion upon arrival.

This guide provides a detailed overview of visa types, application procedures, costs, and validity to help you navigate the student visa requirements for studying in Indonesia smoothly and efficiently.

Types of Student Visas in Indonesia

There are several visa types available depending on the length and purpose of study.

1. Visa Kunjungan (Visitor Visa for Study)

This short-term visa is ideal for students enrolling in short courses, language programs, or training that lasts less than six months.

It is a single-entry visa that can be extended once, depending on the program duration.

2. Visa Tinggal Terbatas (Limited Stay Visa or VITAS)

This visa is issued for students enrolled in degree programs or long-term education.

It is the primary visa for full-time students, allowing entry to Indonesia for initial residence and study.

3. Izin Tinggal Terbatas (ITAS or Limited Stay Permit)

After arrival, students must convert their VITAS into an ITAS, which becomes their residence permit for the duration of study.

The ITAS typically lasts for one year and is renewable annually through the immigration office.

4. Formal Education Visa (E30 Series)

This category includes subtypes such as E30A for Bachelor’s degree, E30B for Master’s degree, and E30C for Doctoral degree.

These visas allow multiple-year stays and represent Indonesia’s latest update in educational visa policy.

Application Process and Key Requirements

The student visa requirements for studying in Indonesia follow a structured process involving both the university and immigration authorities.

1. Acceptance and Sponsorship

The first step is securing an admission letter from an Indonesian university or institution.

This university will serve as your visa sponsor and help coordinate your visa and study permit applications with the Ministry of Education and the Directorate General of Immigration.

2. Preparing Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

• Passport with at least 6 to 18 months validity.
• Official admission letter from the university.
• Sponsorship or recommendation letter from the university.
• Study permit from the Ministry of Education (handled by the university).
• Proof of sufficient funds, usually around USD 2,000 or equivalent.
• Health certificate and COVID-19 vaccination proof.
• Passport-sized photographs (recent).
• Academic transcripts and curriculum vitae (CV).

Each document should be clear, valid, and, if necessary, translated into English or Bahasa Indonesia.

3. University Submission and Government Approval

Your university will submit all documents to immigration and education authorities for study permit and visa approval, also known as the TELEX Visa.

The approval process typically takes two to four weeks.

Once approved, you will receive an authorization letter to apply for your visa at the Indonesian Embassy.

4. Visa Stamping at Indonesian Embassy

After receiving the approval letter, visit the nearest Indonesian Embassy or Consulate.

Submit your documents and pay the visa fee, which ranges around USD 100 to 150.

Visa issuance usually takes two to five working days.

5. Arrival and Conversion to ITAS

Upon arrival in Indonesia, your VITAS must be converted into an ITAS or Limited Stay Permit within 30 days.

This process involves visiting the local immigration office for biometric registration and payment of additional fees ranging from IDR 1,000,000 to 2,000,000.

The ITAS allows you to reside legally in Indonesia for one year and is renewable for the duration of your studies.

Costs and Validity Period

When fulfilling the student visa requirements for studying in Indonesia, it is essential to plan your budget carefully.

Visa application fees range from IDR 1,500,000 to 2,000,000 or about USD 100 to 130.

ITAS processing fees are around IDR 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 or about USD 70 to 130.

Processing time usually takes four to six weeks in total from university application to visa issuance.

For E30 visas intended for formal education, the stay permit may last up to four years and can be extended annually.

Short-term study visas are valid for 60 days and may be extended depending on the program type.

These updates in 2025 provide greater flexibility for long-term students and streamline the renewal process through online systems such as evisa.imigrasi.go.id.

Non-Formal Education and Language Study

Apart from formal higher education programs, Indonesia also offers non-formal education visas under the E30 code.

These are suitable for language learners, vocational trainees, or short-term exchange participants.

While the student visa requirements for studying in Indonesia under this category are similar, applicants should check the specific visa subcode applicable to their study type.

Non-formal education visas generally have shorter validity, often six months, and require separate approval from institutions authorized to provide such training.

Important Tips for Applicants

Start your application process at least two to three months before departure to allow enough time for government approvals.

Always confirm that your university is registered with the Ministry of Education and authorized to sponsor foreign students.

Apply only through the official e-Visa portal at evisa.imigrasi.go.id to avoid scams or outdated information.

Scan all your documents and store them online for easy access during immigration procedures.

Carry vaccination proof and health certificates, as these may still be requested at entry points.

Accommodation Recommendations for International Students

After completing all student visa requirements for studying in Indonesia, finding a comfortable and safe place to live becomes the next important step.

For those studying in Jakarta, one recommended option is Nivara Resort Townhouse at Wijaya.

Located in the prestigious area of South Jakarta, this modern residential cluster offers a calm and secure environment suitable for international students who prefer a peaceful study atmosphere while staying close to the city’s main universities and facilities.

The townhouse features resort-style architecture, green open spaces, and easy access to cafes, public transport, and shopping centers.

Choosing the right accommodation like Nivara Resort Townhouse can greatly enhance your living experience while pursuing education in Indonesia.