New Immigration Bill Passed in Indonesia

New immigration bill has been passed by the Indonesian House of Representatives on April 7, 2011 which will affect expat spouses (women or men) who are married to Indonesian nationals (men or women). The new law is expected to be signed by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (Pres SBY) within 30 days.

• Foreign spouses of Indonesian citizens can get a permanent residence permit (Kitap) after two years of marriage. They will only be required to report to the immigration office once every five years — a free service — instead of the annual renewal currently required.
  
• If they have been married to an Indonesian citizen for at least 10 years, foreigners can stay in the country even after a divorce.
  
• Foreign spouses will be allowed to work in the country.
  
• Children from mixed marriages will automatically get a Kitap regardless of their nationality. Under the current arrangement, these children have to choose a citizenship at the age of 18. If they choose to adopt foreign citizenship, they have to apply for a residence permit.
  
• Foreign investors who have worked in Indonesia for three years, less than the five years now required, can get a Kitap.
  
• Former holders of Indonesian citizenship can get a Kitap.