Immigration to Indonesia is a popular relocation option for digital nomads and people looking to make a major lifestyle change. It is an island state in Southeast Asia, having a rich cultural heritage and beautiful nature. This exotic destination beckons with its sandy beaches, coral reefs, ideal surfing conditions, thick jungles, and an amazing variety of flora and fauna.
Content:
- Possibility of moving to Indonesia
- The pros of buying real estate in Indonesia
- Advantages of moving
- The cons of moving
- Adapting to a new place: tips
- We will help you choose your dream apartment in Indonesia
As in any country, living in the island nation has its own ins and outs. In this article, we will cover not only its positive, but also negative aspects to help you evaluate all its advantages and disadvantages when deciding to visit or even relocate to this diverse state.
Possibility of moving to Indonesia
Foreign nationals have many opportunities to move to the island nation. A direct equivalent of a temporary residence permit is a KITAS. Obtaining it entitles the migrant to open an account in one of the local banks, buy a bike or car, be officially employed by a local company, and also leave and return to the country without any restrictions.
Here are a few ways to obtain such a stay permit, which are worth mentioning:
- Employment (Work KITAS). Foreign specialists with experience and knowledge in various fields, including IT, finance, tourism, and education, can find a job at international or domestic companies. To obtain a KITAS, you must provide a job invitation letter from the employer and pay a fee of $1,200 (paid annually), after which you are issued a 1-year residence permit.
- Studies (Student KITAS). As a student, you will be able to receive a high-level education and an international diploma, which opens up excellent career opportunities. The visa is valid for 1 year and is automatically extended for the same period throughout the duration of your studies.
- Retirement (Retirement KITAS). The island nation also attracts retirees who are seeking a more peaceful, warmer, and more financially advantageous place to live in. Retirement visas are issued to persons over the age of 55, given they have 1-year health insurance and a title deed for property in Indonesia or a rental agreement. Also, the applicant needs to prove financial solvency—the monthly income must exceed $1,500.
- Marriage (Family KITAS). If your spouse is a citizen of this archipelagic state or has a valid work visa, this may also give you the opportunity to obtain temporary residency. In the former case, you apply for a residence permit for a period of 1 year, followed by an annual renewal of up to 5 years, and after 3 years, you can apply for a permanent stay permit called KITAP. In the latter case, the residence permit is issued for the same period as that of your spouse.
Important! Overseas nationals are not granted residency or citizenship for purchasing apartments in Indonesia. The pros of investing in real estate in the island nation will be reviewed below.
The pros of buying real estate in Indonesia
If you are planning to relocate or want to do business in this island nation, the best option would be to acquire Indonesia real estate. The pros of such an investment are as follows:
- Wide range of housing. Houses and apartments in Indonesia come in a great variety: from secluded villas on the coast to modern flats in city centres. Regardless of your preferences, you will definitely be able to find the right property.
- Low prices. Buying an apartment in Indonesia can be much more affordable compared to other countries. You can purchase a villa in Indonesia at a much cheaper cost, especially when compared to prices in cities like Singapore or Hong Kong.
- Tourism potential. The island nation is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world, and acquiring real estate here gives you the opportunity to rent it out to holidaymakers, which is a great additional source of income. The average yield of popular properties in Bali reaches 19.94% per year, which is several times higher than in other popular cities in the world.
- Investment potential. If you choose the property right, especially in popular regions, you can profitably resell it. Thanks to the constant growth of tourism and economic development, housing prices are rising steadily.
Advantages of moving
What are the pros of living in Indonesia? Here is what you should expect after moving:
- Low cost of living. Compared to some other countries, the cost of living here is relatively low. Food, transportation, and housing are affordable to middle-income foreigners. For example, in Bali, rent is 72.9% lower and groceries are 60.5% cheaper than in New York.
- Beautiful nature. Indonesia is home to many fascinating natural attractions, including the islands of Bali, Java, and Lombok. Residents can enjoy pristine nature, waterfalls, volcanoes, and picturesque landscapes.
- Warm climate. The country lies along the equator, so it is almost always warm here. You are able to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, including surfing, diving, and swimming.
- Stunning beaches. Well-groomed beaches with clean sand attract thousands of tourists and surfers from all over the world.
- Unique mixed culture. The multicultural country is home to various ethnic groups. Thanks to this, it has a distinct environment with its own characteristics, unique cuisine, and traditions.
- Amiability of the locals. Indonesians are intrinsically friendly and welcoming to foreign nationals. These people are conversable and have a mild disposition.
- Fresh vegetables and fruits. Markets and supermarkets sell locally grown produce all year round. Besides, in stores, you can always find those goods that you are used to in your homeland, if you do not want to change your food habits.
- No problems with accommodation. Affordable flat, house, and hotel options are on almost every corner.
- Stable political situation. Life in the state is protected from all sorts of unrest, so overseas citizens can enjoy a fun-packed holiday in a relaxed environment.
The cons of moving
Along with the pros, there are also disadvantages of moving, which must be considered when contemplating relocation:
- Weather and climate. Although the tropical climate promises warm weather all year round, you have to put up with its negative manifestations, including the rainy season, high humidity, and hot temperatures.
- Inefficient transport system. This is particularly true in big cities like Jakarta, where traffic jams are an ever-present problem and public transport is often overcrowded.
- Struggling healthcare system. The health infrastructure in some regions may be inadequate and imperfect, especially in rural areas.
- Language barrier. Many locals speak their own regional dialects. Thus, foreigners face language difficulties, especially those who have chosen to relocate to small towns or villages.
- Dangerous animals, the need to get a number of vaccinations. In the jungle, encounters with scorpions and venomous snakes are quite frequent.
- The problem with waste is particularly acute during the rainy seasons.
Adapting to a new place: tips
Adapting to a new place is easier when you are open-minded and tolerant. Indonesia is a multicultural state where representatives of various peoples live side by side. To build positive and respectful relationships with the locals, take the time to learn about the traditions of the region of your choice.
It is also worth trying to join local organisations, social clubs, or communities—this will help you meet new people and adjust to a new life faster.
We will help you choose your dream apartment in Indonesia
Planning to move to Indonesia but do not know where to start? In the catalogue on our website, you will find apartments, houses, commercial real estate, and other properties in popular parts of the country. We publish only verified real estate information from major developers and certified agencies. For detailed advice on purchasing a home or guidance from an experienced specialist, leave a request, and we will contact you shortly!