How to Apply for the E28A Bali Investor Visa: From Start to Approval
By Marco Voss, Senior Visa Specialist
For foreign investors planning to establish and manage a business in Indonesia, the E28A Investor KITAS is the definitive legal pathway. It is a Limited Stay Permit specifically designed for individuals who will act as a director or commissioner in an Indonesian foreign investment company (PT PMA), providing legal residence for up to two years. This guide outlines the official 2026 requirements, costs, and process for securing this essential permit.
With over a decade of experience navigating Indonesian immigration, our team at e28abali has seen how crucial it is for investors to secure the correct visa from the outset. The E28A is not a general work or tourist visa; it is a dedicated residence permit tied directly to your investment and leadership role within your company.
Who is the E28A Investor Visa For?
The E28A visa is tailored for a specific class of applicant. Understanding if you fit the profile is the first step toward a successful application. Based on the latest official guidelines, this visa is intended for:
- Foreign Investors in Leadership Roles: You must be an appointed member of the board of directors or board of commissioners of the sponsoring PT PMA company.
- Active Business Managers: The permit officially supports activities including business, investment, and company establishment. This clarifies that you are permitted to actively manage your business operations from within Indonesia, not just hold a passive investment.
- Long-Term Residents: This is a residence permit, not a short-stay visa. It is designed for those who need a stable, long-term base in Bali to oversee their company.
Core Eligibility and Document Requirements for 2026
The Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration maintains a precise list of requirements to ensure applicants are genuine investors. Vague or incomplete applications are the most common reason for delays. To apply, you and your sponsoring company must prepare the following:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must have a minimum of 6 months of validity remaining at the time of application.
- Proof of Living Expenses: A bank statement showing a balance of at least US$2,000 or its equivalent.
- Evidence of Share Ownership: This is the most critical financial requirement. You must provide official evidence of share ownership valued at a minimum of Rp10,000,000,000 in the guarantor company, as registered in the investment ministry’s system.
- Company Legalisation Documents: The official company establishment decree from the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.
- Recent Company Bank Statements: The corporate current account statements for the last two months.
- Personal Documents: A recent colour photograph, your Curriculum Vitae (CV), and a proposed travel itinerary.
Collating these documents correctly is where many applicants face challenges. Our visa concierge service specialises in verifying and organising these requirements to ensure full compliance before submission.
Understanding the Costs: Official Fees vs. All-In Agency Packages
Transparency on costs is essential for financial planning. The E28A process involves both non-negotiable government fees and agency service fees. It is important to distinguish between the two.
Official Government Fees (2026):
- For a stay permit of up to 1 year: Rp7,000,000
- For a stay permit of up to 2 years: Rp9,500,000
These figures are the direct cost paid to the Indonesian government for the stay permit itself. They do not include agency assistance, the Multiple Exit Re-entry Permit (MERP), or other related administrative steps.
Typical All-In Agency Packages:
In the Bali market, reputable agencies offer comprehensive packages that bundle all necessary costs. For 2026, all-in packages for the 2-year E28A Investor KITAS are commonly advertised around Rp17.5–19 million. These packages typically include the agent’s service fee, the official Rp9,500,000 government fee, and the MERP, providing a single, clear cost for the entire process. While lower quotes may exist, it is vital to confirm they include all government levies to avoid unexpected charges.
Application Process and Timeline
Once all documents are prepared, the application process is generally efficient. While official timelines can fluctuate based on system load, experienced agencies can navigate the process effectively.
- Document Submission: Your agent submits the complete application package through the online immigration portal.
- eVisa Issuance: After approval, an eVisa is issued. This allows you to enter Indonesia.
- Onshore Biometrics: Upon arrival in Bali, you must visit the local immigration office to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
- KITAS and MERP Issuance: Your physical Limited Stay Permit (KITAS) and MERP are finalised.
With an express service, this entire process can often be completed in as few as 5 working days, with standard processing typically taking 7–9 working days. This efficiency is a key reason why investors choose to work with a dedicated agency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I actively work and manage my company with an E28A visa?
Yes. The official 2026 guidelines explicitly state that permitted activities include “business, investment, company establishment, and board-level functions.” This confirms the E28A is designed for hands-on directors and commissioners who need to manage their operations in Indonesia.
2. Does the Rp10 billion investment have to be my personal funds?
The requirement is for evidence of share ownership of at least Rp10 billion within the sponsoring PT PMA. This value is tied to the company’s investment plan and structure as registered with the investment ministry. It reflects your stake in the company, which is the basis for your role as a director or commissioner.
3. What are the stay duration options for the E28A visa in 2026?
The latest regulations provide two clear options. You can apply for an E28A Investor KITAS valid for either up to 1 year or up to 2 years. The 2-year option is the most popular choice for serious investors as it offers greater stability and requires less frequent renewals.
Securing an E28A Investor KITAS is a foundational step for any serious entrepreneur in Bali. It provides the legal security and stability needed to focus on what truly matters: growing your business. If you are ready to begin the process, the specialists on our team are prepared to provide clear, expert guidance.
To discuss your specific situation and start your E28A application, contact our concierge directly on WhatsApp.
Chat a visa specialist on WhatsApp →
Disclaimer: We are a licensed visa facilitation service, not a government office, and this page is general information — not legal advice. Fees shown are agency service estimates, not official government fees. Requirements change; we confirm the latest rules for your case before you apply.