Exit Permit Only (EPO) for KITAS Holders in Indonesia

Foreigners must know that if they wish to work in any part of Indonesia, they must apply for a work permit and a KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Sementara or temporary residency permit). Furthermore, when switching between jobs or changing your KITAS type, you must apply for an Exit Permit Only Indonesia (EPO).

You should not take the application of EPO lightly, as you may be refused entry to Indonesia Indonesia again without completing it.

There are three types of KITAS: employment KITAS, spouse-sponsored KITAS, and retirement KITAS. That said, you will need a sponsor to apply for your KITAS, either your spouse or your company, or you have fulfilled the requirement of being a retiree qualified for a KITAS Indonesia 2024.

It would help if you always remembered that KITAS allows you to stay but does not allow you to work. Thus, you will need a work permit and KITAS to work and stay legally in Indonesia.

This article elaborates on the importance of Exit Permit Only Indonesia for KITAS holders.

What is an Exit Permit Only in Indonesia?

According to the Indonesian Immigration Law, Exit Permit Only (EPO) is the permission granted by the Indonesian government that allows foreigners with a KITAS to leave Indonesia and not return.

The purpose of acquiring an EPO (Exit Permit Only) for KITAS cancellation is to legally have a clean slate between you and your previous employer by returning all original documents to the authorities.

What is the EPO Visa in Indonesia?

The Exit Permit Only Indonesia is a specific visa or permit required by Indonesian immigration authorities for foreign nationals under certain conditions. It is not a visa in the traditional sense but rather a license needed to manage various immigration processes.

When Do You Need an Exit Permit Only (EPO) in Indonesia?

Understanding the Exit Permit Only (EPO) requirements in Indonesia remains crucial for foreign nationals navigating changes in their visa status. Here’s an overview of when you need an EPO and the associated procedures.

1. When a foreigner switches to a new company or changes the sponsor of their KITAS, an EPO must be obtained before they can get a new work permit.
2. An EPO is required when a foreigner changes the KITAS type from employment KITAS to retirement KITAS.
3. When a foreigner resigns and will no longer work in Indonesia, they must apply for an EPO before leaving the country.

Even though Indonesian immigration does not strictly require foreigners to go through the EPO process immediately after resigning, it is highly recommended that their previous company do this as soon as possible, even when the KITAS has not expired yet.

Note that although your previous company is responsible for your EPO process, you are also partially obliged to cancel your KITAS by getting an EPO. The foreigner must leave Indonesia within 5-7 days after completing the EPO process. The required period to leave Indonesia might be shorter depending on the rules set by the local immigration.

The Process of Applying for Exit Permit Only (EPO)

Suppose you’re ready to switch jobs or leave Indonesia and must process your EPO. Here’s how you can successfully apply for your EPO:

1. Ensure you provide all necessary documentation related to your current KITAS for verification. This is essential for a successful EPO application.
2. Once verified, your passport and supporting documents will be sent to the Immigration Office, which will handle the process and officially cancel your KITAS.
3. After processing the EPO, you’ll have seven days to leave Indonesia. Plan accordingly to avoid overstaying.

The Documents Required for Exit Permit Only (EPO)

It is mandatory to go through the EPO process and cancel your KITAS if you no longer live or work in Indonesia, change your employer, or change your type of KITAS. If you are still in Indonesia, consulting a professional like InCorp for your EPO procedure would be best.

The following documents are required for your EPO application:

• A copy of your outbound flight ticket from Indonesia
• Your original passport
• All original documents relevant to the KITAS you are currently holding, including DPKK payment and RPTKA Approval

However, if you have left Indonesia and forgot to apply for an EPO, you must apply for an Exit Re-entry Permit (ERP) when you are abroad. The following documents are needed to process your ERP:

• A copy of your outbound flight ticket from Indonesia
• A copy of the exit stamp in your passport showing that you have left Indonesia
• All original documents relevant to the KITAS you are currently holding, including DPKK payment and RPTKA Approval

It is critical to process your ERP if you intend to enter Indonesia again.

What to Do If Your KITAS is About to Expire?

It is not an issue if you leave Indonesia with a valid KITAS and decide not to return to Indonesia in the future. However, if you plan to re-enter the country and your KITAS expires when you are abroad, you will be faced with administrative immigration issues.

Once the Indonesian immigration authorities inspect that your KITAS has not been canceled with an EPO when you return to Indonesia, you might be summoned for interrogation. You may also be refused entry into Indonesia at any time.

5 Common Mistakes of Applying for Exit Permit Only (EPO)

To help you avoid these pitfalls, here are the five most common mistakes people make when applying for an EPO (Exit Permit Only) Indonesia—and how to prevent them.

Incomplete Documentation

Missing a document is easy when you’re eager to wrap up your stay. Whether it’s your KITAS, passport, or a sponsor letter, forgetting one can delay the process. Take your time and double-check everything before submitting to avoid last-minute stress.

Procrastinating the Application

We all tend to push things to the last minute, but in the case of an EPO, time is your best friend. Waiting too long to start the process can lead to delays, making you panic as your departure date looms closer. Start early to ensure a smooth transition.

Assuming It’s Your Sponsor’s Job Alone

While your employer or sponsor plays a significant role in the EPO process, don’t assume you’re off the hook. Staying involved and checking in with your sponsor can help avoid unnecessary delays or miscommunications that could cost you time.

Misunderstanding the Exit Deadline

After your EPO is granted, you usually have 5-7 days to leave Indonesia. Many people miscalculate this window, thinking they have more time, which can lead to overstaying and hefty fines. Keep this timeline in mind and plan your departure accordingly.

Thinking a KITAS Expiry Means an Automatic Exit

A common misconception is that an expiring KITAS negates the need for an EPO. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Even if your KITAS is about to expire, you still need an EPO to end your stay officially. Overlooking this can result in future complications when trying to re-enter the country.

Apply EPO and ERP Indonesia with InCorp

Suppose you’re seeking a reliable partner for your immigration needs in Indonesia. In that case, InCorp offers a comprehensive range of immigration services, including EPO and ERP applications designed to streamline your process. Our specialized services include:

• Document Preparation and Verification
• Sponsor Coordination
• Submission and Representation
• Follow-up Support

Fill out the form below should you require further information on KITAS and EPO applications. We can assist you in applying for both KITAS and EPO in Indonesia or ERP abroad.