If you’re planning to stay in Indonesia for more than 30 days, take note: Starting 1st June 2025, all visa extensions must be done in person at the immigration office. This includes Visa on Arrival (VoA), e-VoA, 60-day single-entry visas (B211A), and even KITAS holders.
What’s Changing?
Until now, many travelers were able to extend their VoA online without ever visiting an immigration office. That is no longer possible. From June 2025, the Indonesian Immigration Department requires all foreigners to appear in person to provide
- Biometric data (photo and fingerprints)
- A short interview with immigration officers
This change was officially announced only on 29 May 2025, just days before it came into effect — just a few days before taking effect. As a result, some of the details remain unclear, and the exact process may continue to evolve over the coming weeks.
What we do know: the in-person visit is usually quick and simple. It’s not a formal interview — rather a basic check of your exit ticket, and confirmation that your reported address matches the one provided by your accommodation.
As long as you bring all the required documents and follow the dress code, the whole process typically takes no more than 5 minutes.
Already Applied Online?
If you’ve already submitted and paid for a visa extension online and are currently waiting for approval, there’s no need to worry. Just keep checking the status of your application on the official immigration website.
Once processed, the system will likely instruct you to come to the immigration office in person. Be sure to follow the instructions provided.
About to Extend Your Visa?
The process now consists of two parts. First, you must submit your extension request online through the same website you used to apply for your visa and complete the payment. Then, you’ll need to visit the immigration office in person to finalize the process.
There are exceptions for certain travelers. Elderly people, pregnant women, and those with disabilities are allowed to complete the entire process directly at the immigration office without registering online in advance.
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Tips for In-Person Visa Extensions
Dress Code Matters
Indonesian immigration offices apply a strict dress code. To avoid being turned away at the entrance:
- Cover your shoulders and knees
- Wear closed-toe shoes (flip-flops and sandals are not allowed)
- Avoid shorts, tank tops, or beach attire
Bring a Flight Ticket
In addition, don’t forget to bring your outbound flight ticket as proof of your intended departure date from Indonesia. It may be required during the appointment.
Where to Go
You can find your nearest immigration office on the official immigration website here.
What If You’re Using an Agent?
Even if you’re using a visa agent to assist with your extension, you’ll still be required to appear in person. So unless the agent is helping you with additional services or language support, there may not be much added value in going through an agent for this step alone.
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Summary of Visa Application
Where to Apply
Currently, there are two official online platforms where you can apply for a visa before your arrival.
- https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/web/application_bvk
- This new platform allows you to scan your passport directly via mobile phone or webcam, making the process much easier than before.
- https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/
- The older site is still active, but it requires uploading a passport-style photo and PDF copies of your passport and flight tickets.
You can apply for your visa up to 90 days before your arrival and it becomes valid when entering Indonesia.
Alternatively, you can still get a VoA and pay for it upon arrival at the airport.
Backindo Tip: Make sure your country is eligible for eVoA or VoA here.
Visa Options
When choosing your visa type for tourism purposes, here are your main options:
- B1 – Tourist Visa on Arrival (VoA)
- Valid for 30 days
- Extendable once for another 30 days
- Total stay: up to 60 days
- Cost: IDR 500,000 per extension (so IDR 1,000,000 for 60 days total)
- Can be applied for:
- Online before arrival
- Or on arrival at the airport (available at most international entry points)
- C1 – 60-Day Tourist Visa (Single Entry)
- Valid for 60 days from arrival
- Extendable twice, each time for 60 days
- Maximum stay: up to 180 days
- Cost: IDR 1,000,000 for the initial visa (extensions will cost extra — around IDR 1,000,000 per extension)
- This visa must be applied for before you arrive in Indonesia and the processing usually takes 5–10 business days, so apply well in advance.
Read more in our full guide: C1 Visa Indonesia: A Practical Long-Stay Option.
Summary
If you already know you’ll be staying in Indonesia for more than 30 days, especially if you’re planning to explore remote areas or travel off the beaten path, the C1 60-day visa is a smart choice. It gives you more flexibility, a longer stay from the start, and saves you from needing to visit immigration offices during your trip.
On the other hand, if you’re only staying a month or two in more developed areas, the Visa on Arrival (B1) might be all you need — just be prepared for an in-person visit if you extend.
And remember: if you go to immigration, it’s usually a quick and painless process — just show up on time, bring the right documents, and dress respectfully.
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