Understanding Indonesia's Silver Hair Visa
Indonesia, renowned for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and warm climate, has become an attractive destination for retirees worldwide. To accommodate this demographic, the Indonesian government introduced the Silver Hair Visa (E33E), designed specifically for individuals seeking a long-term stay during their retirement years.
What is the Silver Hair Visa (E33E)?
The Silver Hair Visa officially termed the E33E Visa, is a long-term residency permit targeting retirees aged 60 and above. The Silver Hair Visa (E33E) is initially valid for 5 years and can be extended for an additional 5 years, allowing for a total stay of up to 10 years in Indonesia. This extension provides retirees with the opportunity to enjoy a prolonged and stable residency in the country.
Extension Process
To extend the Silver Hair Visa beyond the initial 5-year period, holders must apply for an extension at least 60 days before the current visa expires. The extension process involves submitting the necessary documentation and fulfilling any updated requirements set by Indonesian immigration authorities at that time. It is advisable to initiate the extension process well in advance to ensure a seamless continuation of residency.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Silver Hair Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 60 years old.
- Financial Stability: Applicants must provide proof of income or benefits amounting to at least US$3,000 per month.
- Bank Deposit: A commitment to deposit a minimum of US$50,000 in a state-owned Indonesian bank within 90 days of entering the country is required.
- Living Expenses: Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, with a minimum of US$2,000 per month, is necessary.
Benefits of the Silver Hair Visa
- Extended Stay: The visa grants a five-year residency in Indonesia, with the option for renewal, providing long-term stability for retirees.
- Multiple Entries: Visa holders can travel to and from Indonesia multiple times during the visa's validity period, offering flexibility for international travel.
- Simplified Residency: Upon meeting the visa conditions, holders automatically receive an Electronic Limited Stay Permit (e-ITAS) and a Re-Entry Permit upon arrival, eliminating the need for additional immigration procedures.
Other Options If You Don’t Qualify for the Silver Hair Visa
If you don’t meet the requirements for the Silver Hair Visa (E33E), Indonesia offers alternative long-term visa options under the Golden Visa scheme. These are especially suitable for individuals who may not qualify by age or financial criteria but still wish to live in Indonesia for an extended period.
Available options include:
- Golden Visa Indonesia: Designed for investors, high-net-worth individuals, and entrepreneurs seeking residency in exchange for economic contribution.
- Dependent Golden Visa: Intended for family members of Golden Visa holders, allowing spouses or children to reside in Indonesia under a dependent status.
These options provide flexibility for various foreign nationals planning a long-term stay in Indonesia outside of retirement-specific routes.
Application Process
- Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents, including a valid passport (with at least 12 months validity), recent color photograph, proof of income, proof of living expenses, and a statement of commitment to deposit the required funds in a state-owned bank.
- Online Application: Access the Indonesian immigration e-visa portal at https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/, create an account, and complete the visa application form by providing personal and passport information.
- Payment of Fees: The visa fee is IDR 13,000,000 for a five-year stay. Payments can be made online using acceptable payment methods such as Visa, Mastercard, or JCB.
- Visa Issuance: Once the application is processed and approved, the e-visa will be issued. Applicants will receive an email notification to download the approved e-visa.
- Post-Arrival Reporting: Within 90 days of entering Indonesia, visa holders must report their bank account details, confirming the deposit of the required funds, to the local immigration office.
Comparison between Silver Hair Visa and Retirement KITAS
Indonesia also offers the Retirement KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) for retirees. Key differences between the two include:
- Duration: The Retirement KITAS is valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually, whereas the Silver Hair Visa offers up to 10 years stay providing the applicant a long-term solution without the need for frequent renewal.
- Financial Requirements: The Retirement KITAS requires proof of a monthly income of at least US$3,000 but does not mandate a bank deposit, making it more accessible for some retirees.
The Silver Hair Visa, Retirement KITAS, and Retirement KITAP allow family members to be included as dependents—this includes a spouse (wife or husband) and children under the age of 18. It's recommended to consult with a licensed visa agent or the local immigration office to confirm the latest requirements.
