Planning a Special Trip to Indonesia? Learn How B211 Visas Let You Stay Longer!

Planning a Special Trip to Indonesia? If you're looking to explore the archipelago for more than 60 days or have a specific purpose beyond a short vacation, the B211 visa might be your best option. Whether you're attending a business event, joining a cultural immersion program, or simply seeking a deeper travel experience, this visa allows you to stay longer without the need for a work permit. Learn how the B211 visa works, who qualifies for it, and why it's increasingly popular among long-stay travelers.

The B211A and B211B visas offer a practical solution for travelers who do not qualify for Visa on Arrival (VoA) or the Visa Exemption program. These single-entry visas are ideal for visitors from countries not listed under Indonesia’s VoA scheme, or for those with specific purposes such as business, volunteering, or cultural exchange. With a validity of 60 days and options for extension, the B211 visa makes it easier to stay longer legally in Indonesia without hassle.

This article is tailored for long-term travelers, digital nomads, volunteers, and those with non-commercial business purposes in Indonesia. If you're planning to stay beyond the usual tourist period or need a visa that supports activities like remote work, humanitarian projects, or attending business meetings, the B211 visa could be the perfect fit. Understanding who this visa is designed for helps you avoid immigration issues and choose the right legal pathway for your trip.

What Exactly Are B211A and B211B Visit Visas?

The B211A and B211B are types of single-entry visit visas designed for foreigners who wish to enter Indonesia for a limited period of time with specific non-tourist purposes. Unlike tourist visas, these visas are suitable for individuals engaging in business meetings, volunteering, academic research, or cultural activities. Each visa allows an initial stay of up to 60 days and can be extended, making it an ideal option for those who need to stay longer without applying for a work permit.

The B211A visa is primarily intended for tourism, social or family visits, and cultural activities. It suits those who want to explore Indonesia beyond major tourist areas, visit relatives, or participate in events like traditional arts and cultural festivals. This type of visa is often chosen by long-stay travelers who don’t qualify for Visa on Arrival but still want to enjoy a meaningful stay without working.

The B211B visa is intended for non-commercial business purposes such as meetings, negotiations, and product trials. It is important to note that this visa does not permit employment or any activity involving salary or compensation. Ideal for foreign professionals visiting Indonesia for short-term business matters, the B211B allows you to engage with local partners without violating immigration regulations.

Who Needs a B211 Visa?

The B211 visa is ideal for travelers planning to stay in Indonesia for more than 60 days. It is especially useful for those who are not eligible for Visa on Arrival or who have specific purposes beyond short-term tourism. Whether you're attending a long cultural program, visiting family, or participating in a business project without employment, the B211 visa ensures you can stay longer legally and with clear permission from immigration authorities

Citizens from countries that are not included in Indonesia’s Visa on Arrival (VoA) or Visa Exemption list will need to apply for a B211 visa in advance. This visa acts as a legal entry option for travelers who otherwise cannot enter Indonesia without a pre-approved visa. It's especially relevant for those coming from regions with stricter visa requirements or limited diplomatic agreements with Indonesia.

The B211 visa is also suitable for individuals with specific purposes that are not covered by other visa types. This includes those engaging in volunteering programs, short-term academic research, or humanitarian visits. Since these activities may not fall under typical tourist or business categories, the B211 visa offers a flexible legal pathway to enter and stay in Indonesia while remaining compliant with immigration rules.

Permitted Activities with a B211A Visa (And What’s Strictly Prohibited)

With a B211A visa, you are allowed to engage in long-term tourism, visit friends or family members, and participate in social, artistic, or cultural activities. This includes attending festivals, community programs, cultural workshops, or spending extended time exploring Indonesia’s diverse regions beyond just a short vacation. These activities are fully legal under B211A as long as you do not perform any work that involves earning money in Indonesia.

With a B211B visa, you are permitted to attend seminars or conferences, conduct business meetings, negotiations, and contract signings, as well as perform company branch audits or inspections. These activities are strictly non-remunerative and must be related to short-term, non-commercial business purposes.

Important Reminder: You are NOT allowed to work or receive any form of salary, wage, or payment from any Indonesian entity while holding a B211B visa. Violating this regulation can result in visa revocation, fines, or even deportation.

Step-by-Step Application Process for a B211 Visa

Step 1: Initial Preparation

The first step in applying for a B211 visa is to find a sponsor or guarantor in Indonesia. This can be either an Indonesian citizen (WNI) or a registered company that is willing to endorse your application. Without a valid sponsor, your visa application cannot proceed.

Once you’ve secured a sponsor, you must gather all the required documents, including:

• Scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Sponsorship letter from your guarantor
• Recent passport-sized photograph
• Completed visa application form

Having these documents ready will speed up the application process and reduce the chances of rejection.

Step 2: Required Document Checklist

To ensure a smooth visa application, make sure you have the following documents prepared. These are mandatory for both B211A and B211B visas:

• Passport with at least 6 to 12 months validity from the date of entry into Indonesia
• Recent passport-sized photo that meets Indonesian immigration standards
• Return or onward flight ticket showing intent to leave Indonesia within visa validity
• Proof of sufficient funds such as recent bank statements or savings account summary
• Sponsorship letter from a verified individual or company in Indonesia
• Additional supporting documents depending on your visit purpose (e.g., invitation letter, event registration, or research permit)

Double-checking this checklist will help you avoid delays or rejections during the visa processing phase.

Step 3: Submitting Your Visa Application Online

Once your documents are ready, the next step is to apply online through the official website of Indonesian Immigration. Here's what you need to do:

• Create an account on the official immigration portal (https://molina.imigrasi.go.id)
• Fill out the visa application form accurately, based on your visit purpose
• Upload the required documents including your passport, photo, sponsor letter, and proof of funds
• Pay the visa fee using one of the available online payment methods

After successful submission and payment, you’ll receive a confirmation and can track your application status online. Make sure all uploaded files are clear and in the correct format to avoid delays.

Step 4: Waiting for Approval

After submitting your application and completing the payment, the next step is to wait for the visa approval process. The estimated processing time usually ranges from 5 to 10 working days, depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your documents.

You will receive an email notification once your application has been approved. The e-Visa will be sent directly to your registered email in PDF format. Make sure to print a copy and save a digital version on your phone or device, as you will need to show it upon arrival in Indonesia.

After You Receive the Visa: What Comes Next?

Once your B211 visa is approved and in hand, you're ready to enter Indonesia. Upon arrival, be prepared for standard procedures at the immigration checkpoint, where officers may ask to see your printed e-Visa, return ticket, and sponsor letter.

The initial validity period of a B211 visa is typically 60 days. If you plan to stay longer, it’s crucial to understand the visa extension process in advance.

Extending Your B211 Visa

• When to extend: Begin the process at least 7–10 days before your current visa expires.
• How many times: The B211 visa can usually be extended up to two times, with each extension granting an additional 60 days.
• Where to extend: Visit the nearest immigration office in Indonesia and bring your passport, sponsor documents, and current visa printout.

Timely extension ensures you remain legally in the country and avoid overstay penalties. It's recommended to consult with your sponsor or a visa agent to assist with the paperwork and scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much does the B211 visa cost in total?

The total cost typically includes the visa fee (around USD 50–150 depending on processing speed) and the sponsorship fee, which can range from USD 100 to 300 if using a visa agent or legal sponsor. Prices may vary based on your country of origin and the service provider you choose.

2. How long does the visa approval process usually take?

Under normal conditions, the approval process takes about 5 to 10 working days. However, delays may occur due to high application volume, public holidays, or incomplete documentation.

3. Can I apply for this visa while already in Indonesia?

No. The B211 visa must be applied for outside Indonesia and approved before your entry. You cannot convert another visa type to B211 while staying inside the country.

4. What are common mistakes to avoid during application?

Some common mistakes include incomplete documentation, uploading unclear passport scans, choosing the wrong visa type, or not having a valid sponsor. These errors can lead to delays or rejections.

5. What is the role and responsibility of a sponsor?

A sponsor is required to vouch for your stay in Indonesia and may be contacted by immigration if any issues arise. They are also responsible for ensuring your activities match the stated purpose of your visa and that you do not violate any immigration rules.

Conclusion

The B211 visa is your key to unlocking a deeper, more meaningful experience in Indonesia. Whether you're here for cultural exploration, business engagement, or volunteering, this visa offers flexibility and legal assurance for your extended stay.

Always remember: complying with immigration regulations is essential to ensure a smooth, stress-free visit. Respect the terms of your visa, be transparent with your purpose, and renew on time if needed.