Indonesia

Obtaining a residency in Indonesia involves several steps and can vary in difficulty depending on the type of visa and the applicant's circumstances. The most common types of residency visas for expats are the KITAS and KITAP. The KITAS is a temporary stay permit that is usually valid for 6 to 12 months and can be extended. It is suitable for those who are employed in Indonesia, foreign investors, or those married to Indonesian citizens. The KITAP is a permanent stay permit, which is typically valid for 5 years and can be extended indefinitely. It is available to those who have held a KITAS for a certain number of years, among other eligibility criteria. To apply for a KITAS, an expat must first secure a job or a sponsorship from an Indonesian company. The company must apply for a work permit on behalf of the expat. Once the work permit is approved, the expat can apply for the KITAS. The process involves submitting various documents, such as a passport, health insurance, and proof of financial capability, to the Indonesian authorities. The expat must also undergo a medical check-up. After the KITAS is issued, the expat must report to the local immigration office for biometric data collection. For those not working in Indonesia, such as retirees or spouses of Indonesian citizens, there are other types of KITAS available that require sponsorship from an Indonesian citizen or a legal entity in Indonesia. Digital nomads often use the B211A Social-Cultural Visa, which is intended for social, cultural, or educational purposes. This visa is initially valid for 60 days and can be extended four times, each extension granting an additional 30 days, for a total stay of up to 180 days. To obtain this visa, applicants must provide sponsorship from an Indonesian citizen or a social or cultural organization, proof of sufficient funds, and a return ticket or onward journey. The process of obtaining residency in Indonesia can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring the assistance of a legal professional or an agent to navigate the bureaucracy. However, with proper guidance and complete documentation, the difficulty level is generally considered average compared to other countries.

Healthcare in Indonesia

The healthcare system in Indonesia consists of a mix of public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is managed by the government and provides services at various levels, from community health centers (Puskesmas) to referral hospitals. The quality of public healthcare can vary significantly, with urban areas typically having better facilities and more skilled healthcare professionals than rural areas. Private healthcare in Indonesia offers higher quality services with more modern facilities and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. Both public and private healthcare costs can be a burden for the lower-income population. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare by participating in the national health insurance scheme (BPJS Kesehatan) once they have a residency permit, although many opt for private health insurance to ensure access to private hospitals.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Indonesia varies across its many islands, but overall it is considered low compared to many Western countries. Essentials such as food, housing, and transportation are generally affordable, although prices can be higher in tourist areas and major cities like Jakarta.

Weather

Indonesia has a tropical climate which is characterized by relatively even temperatures throughout the year. The country experiences two main seasons; a wet season and a dry season. The wet season typically runs from November to March, while the dry season spans from April to October. Humidity levels are generally high, and the archipelago is prone to monsoons and occasional extreme weather events like cyclones.

Educational System in Indonesia

The educational system in Indonesia is overseen by the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Education is compulsory for 12 years, covering primary and secondary education. Children typically start their education at the age of 6 or 7 with primary school, which lasts for six years and is referred to as Sekolah Dasar (SD). Following this, they attend three years of Junior Secondary School (Sekolah Menengah Pertama, SMP), and then three years of Senior Secondary School (Sekolah Menengah Atas, SMA) or vocational school (Sekolah Menengah Kejuruan, SMK). The quality of education can vary significantly, with urban areas generally offering better resources and facilities compared to rural areas. Public schools are free, although there may be additional costs for uniforms, books, and other supplies. Private and are also available, offering different curricula and often higher quality education, but at a cost. The academic year in Indonesia typically runs from July to June, with a break in December. Upon graduation, students may take the national examination, which is crucial for university admission.

The university system in Indonesia consists of both public and private institutions, offering undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees. The academic year is divided into two semesters, with an optional short semester offered by some universities. Undergraduate programs typically take four years to complete, while master's programs are usually two years, and doctoral programs can take three to five years. Admission to public universities is highly competitive and is determined by a national entrance exam known as SBMPTN. Private universities have their own admission procedures, which may include tests and interviews. The cost of attending university varies widely, with public universities being heavily subsidized by the government, making them more affordable than private institutions. Foreign students are welcome, and many universities offer programs taught in English, particularly at the postgraduate level. Living costs in Indonesia are relatively low, but international students should be prepared for additional expenses such as visa fees, health insurance, and accommodation.