Foreign students looking to study in Indonesia now have an easier path to securing a visa. The Directorate General of Immigration has removed the requirement for a recommendation letter from the ministry for Student Visas. This means that international students no longer need to provide additional documents, streamlining the application process. This policy change is a significant step in making Indonesia a more welcoming destination for international education.
Indonesia is not just known for its tourism and culinary delights—it also boasts several top universities with global recognition. Many Indonesian universities have made it into the 2025 EduRank list, with institutions like Universitas Indonesia (UI), Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), and Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) ranking among the best in Asia.
Beyond academic excellence, Indonesia offers relatively affordable tuition fees compared to other countries, making it an attractive option for students seeking quality education at a lower cost. The country’s multicultural environment is another draw, providing a diverse and enriching experience for international students. Additionally, Indonesia’s growing economy presents vast opportunities for foreign graduates who wish to work or start a business after completing their studies.
What Is an Student Visa in Indonesia?
A Student Visa is issued to foreign nationals pursuing studies in Indonesia. The Directorate General of Immigration officially introduced a new version of this visa during the “Imifest” Immigration Festival at UGM Yogyakarta on September 12, 2023.
Previously, obtaining this visa required a recommendation letter from a relevant ministry, a process that was often time-consuming and complicated. Now, this requirement has been eliminated. Foreign students only need to provide proof of acceptance from an educational institution to apply for the visa, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
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Another major change is that foreign students can now be sponsored either by an individual Indonesian citizen or by their educational institution, unlike the previous regulation that limited sponsorship options. This reform is part of Indonesia’s effort to attract more international students by offering a smoother visa process and a rich cultural experience.
How to Apply for a Student Visa in Indonesia
For those interested in studying in Indonesia, here are the steps to obtain a student Visa:
- Secure Admission – Foreign students must first receive an acceptance letter from an Indonesian university or educational institution.
- Prepare Required Documents – Applicants need:
- A passport valid for at least 12 months
- An acceptance letter from the institution
- Proof of financial capability to support their studies
- Health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay
- A passport-sized photo with a white background
- Submit the Visa Application – Applications can be submitted online through the Indonesian immigration portal or at the nearest Indonesian embassy.
- Wait for Processing – The visa processing period typically takes about 14 business days. Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel date.
- Receive the Visa and Enter Indonesia – Once approved, students can enter Indonesia and begin their academic journey.
Let Bizindo Handle Your Visa Hassle-Free!
Navigating the visa application process can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the requirements. Even a minor documentation error can cause delays. Instead of dealing with the stress, let Bizindo take care of it for you!
As a trusted business and immigration consultancy, Bizindo provides comprehensive assistance for Education Visas, from document preparation and submission to visa extension services. This allows students to focus on their studies without worrying about administrative hassles.
Beyond visa services, Bizindo also offers support for opening bank accounts in Indonesia, obtaining residence permits, and securing work or business permits for graduates looking to build their careers in Indonesia. For a smooth, efficient, and hassle-free immigration process, Bizindo is your go-to solution! Contact as now.
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