Retiring in Bali is a dream for many, offering the perfect combination of a tropical paradise with a lower cost of living and a vibrant cultural scene. With its stunning landscapes, welcoming community, and rich traditions, Bali stands out as one of the top retirement destinations in the world. However, making this dream a reality requires careful planning, especially in understanding visa requirements, cost of living, healthcare, and potential tax implications.
Retirement in Bali is more than just a beachfront lifestyle; it’s about securing the right visa, understanding local regulations, and preparing for life in a new country. While Bali offers many advantages for retirees, it’s essential to be fully aware of all requirements and fiscal implications before making the move.
Indonesia has recently updated its visa codes and application processes, both online and offline. These changes have streamlined the process, making it easier for retirees to apply for a Retirement Visa (KITAS Lansia), but also adding new criteria to consider.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to plan for a smooth transition into your Bali retirement.
Retirement Visa Options:
When considering retirement in Bali, there are two main visa options for retirees:
Retirement Visa (1y) – E33F – (Sponsored)
The E33F Retirement Visa, commonly referred to as the Retirement KITAS, is a one-year temporary residency visa specifically designed for retirees aged 55 and older who wish to live iWith this visa you cann Bali or other parts of Indonesia.
Here are the key details of the E33F Retirement Visa:
Key Features:
- Duration: The visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually up to a maximum of 5 years.
- Visa Type: Sponsored – meaning that you need to have a local sponsor, typically a government-approved visa agent or travel agency in Indonesia.
- Multiple Entries: The visa allows for multiple entries and exits during the year, so you can travel in and out of Indonesia as often as you like without the need for a separate visa each time.
Requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 55 years old.
- Sponsor: A local Indonesian sponsor (usually a visa agent) is required to apply for this visa.
- Financial Proof: Retirees must provide evidence of a minimum monthly income of USD 1,500 (or equivalent), which can come from pensions, savings, or investments.
- Accommodation: Proof of a property rental agreement in Bali or elsewhere in Indonesia, with a minimum monthly rental cost of USD 500 (or USD 300 for properties outside Denpasar, Badung, or Gianyar).
- Health Insurance: You must have comprehensive health insurance that covers you in Indonesia.
- Local Employment: Retirees are required to hire at least one local Indonesian employee, such as a housekeeper, gardener, or driver.
- Non-Working Visa: While this visa allows you to live in Indonesia, it strictly prohibits any form of employment. However, you are allowed to volunteer or invest in local businesses without being actively involved in day-to-day operations.
Application Process:
- Select a Visa Agent: Choose a government-approved visa agency to act as your sponsor and handle the submission process.
- Submit Required Documents: Provide all necessary documentation, including proof of income, accommodation, health insurance, and personal information.
- Visa Approval: Once your application is approved, you will receive a VITAS (Visa for Temporary Stay), which allows you to enter Indonesia and finalize your KITAS processing.
- KITAS Issuance: Upon arrival, the visa agent will finalize the conversion of your VITAS into a Retirement KITAS (E33F), which grants you a one-year residency.
Renewal and Long-Term Options:
- The E33F Retirement KITAS can be renewed annually for up to five years.
- After five consecutive years of holding this visa, retirees can apply for the KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit), which offers more long-term benefits and greater residency stability.
This visa option is ideal for those who want to enjoy a peaceful retirement in Bali with the flexibility of renewing annually and having the opportunity to secure a permanent stay in the future.
Golden Visa – Silver Hair Visa (5 Years) – E33E
The Golden Visa (also known as the Silver Hair Visa) is a long-term visa aimed at attracting retirees and high-net-worth individuals to Indonesia, particularly Bali, who wish to enjoy a more permanent stay. The E33E category allows retirees to reside in Indonesia for up to 5 years with greater flexibility compared to the annual renewal requirements of the Retirement KITAS.
Key Features:
- Length of Stay: The E33E Silver Hair Visa is valid for 5 years without the need for annual renewal.
- Visa Type: Long-term residency visa for retirees looking for stability and extended stays in Indonesia.
- Multiple Entries: This visa permits unlimited entry and exit from Indonesia, allowing for ease of travel in and out of the country.
Benefits of the Silver Hair Visa:
- Long-term residency: Unlike the one-year KITAS, this visa offers a longer period of residency, reducing the hassle of yearly renewals.
- Lifestyle and convenience: Ideal for retirees who want to establish a more permanent base in Indonesia, with fewer bureaucratic processes and the freedom to travel as desired.
- Eligibility for Permanent Residency: After holding the Silver Hair Visa for 5 years, retirees may be eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (KITAP), offering even more security.
Requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be 55 years or older.
- Financial Proof:
- Proof of a minimum income of USD 3,000 per month (or equivalent), which can be derived from pensions, investments, or savings.
- Applicants are required to show bank account statements with a minimum balance of USD 200,000.
- Health Insurance: Applicants must have valid comprehensive health insurance covering them in Indonesia.
- Accommodation: Proof of property ownership or rental in Indonesia (typically at a higher threshold than that for the KITAS).
- Sponsor: A local sponsor, typically a government-approved visa agent or service, is required.
- Visa fee: IDR 13,000,000 (approximately $830 USD). Additional fee if you choose agent.
What You Can Do with This Visa:
- Live in Indonesia for 5 years: The Silver Hair Visa grants long-term residency without needing yearly renewals.
- Bring family: Eligible family members can also reside with you in Indonesia under this visa.
- Multiple re-entries: Freely enter and exit Indonesia without the need for a new visa each time.
- Enjoy retirement: Engage in tourism and leisure activities without the limitations imposed on shorter-term visas.
Restrictions:
- Non-working visa: The Silver Hair Visa strictly prohibits employment in Indonesia, meaning you cannot work for compensation or wages. However, you are free to invest in or own businesses in Indonesia without actively managing or working in them.
- Business-related activities: You are allowed to manage personal investments or businesses as a passive owner but cannot be involved in day-to-day operations.
Application Process:
- Select a Visa Agent: Work with an authorized visa agent who will act as your sponsor and guide you through the application process.
- Submit Required Documents: Provide necessary documents, including proof of income, accommodation, health insurance, and personal identification.
- Visa Issuance: Once approved, you will receive the E33E Silver Hair Visa, valid for 5 years.
Renewal and Long-Term Options:
- After 5 years, retirees holding the Silver Hair Visa can either renew the visa or apply for Permanent Residency (KITAP) for long-term residency in Indonesia.
The Golden Visa (Silver Hair Visa) E33E is a convenient and attractive option for retirees who want a longer-term, hassle-free stay in Indonesia, making it ideal for those looking to settle down in Bali or other parts of the country for an extended period.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the Retirement KITAS or the Golden Visa (Silver Hair Visa), both options provide a pathway to enjoying your golden years in Bali. The Retirement KITAS offers the flexibility of annual renewals for up to 5 years, perfect for those who want to ease into retirement while exploring Bali’s lifestyle. On the other hand, the Golden Visa (Silver Hair Visa) offers long-term stability with a 5-year residency right from the start, reducing the hassle of yearly renewals and allowing you to settle in more comfortably.
Both visa options enable you to live the life you’ve always dreamed of in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Beyond just residency, you have the chance to buy your dream house in Bali, making your stay not just a temporary escape but a true investment in your future. Owning property in Bali offers more than just a place to live—it’s a gateway to creating a personal sanctuary in paradise, where you can fully embrace the island’s vibrant culture, tropical beauty, and relaxed pace of life.
With the right planning and visa choice, Bali can be more than a retirement destination—it can be home.
