Relocation Checklist: What to Finalize at Home and Prepare Before Departure
Relocation Checklist for Moving to Indonesia: How to Prepare for the Move and What to Finalize at Home
Information current as of December 2025
Relocating to Indonesia is more than just changing countries. It’s a complex project involving legal, tax, financial, and everyday life considerations. Mistakes during the preparation phase can lead to fines, restricted rights, and unnecessary stress.
This checklist outlines the essential steps to smoothly and safely prepare for life in Indonesia—especially if you’re planning a move to Bali, Java, or other regions for work, remote employment, or long-term residency.
1. Visa and Immigration Documents
Your visa is the cornerstone of legal entry and residency. The type of visa you need depends on your length of stay and purpose (work, remote employment, family life, etc.).
What You Need to Enter Indonesia
- A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Visa-compliant photographs.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, rental agreement, villa reservation).
- An invitation from an Indonesian entity—required for work, social, or business visas.
Long-Term Visa Notes
- For relocation, a KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas – Limited Stay Permit) is most appropriate. Available in variations: work, family, retirement, and digital nomad.
- Apply for your visa before arrival. Some categories are not available on arrival.
- You cannot open a local bank account, rent long-term housing, or legally work without a KITAS.
2. Taxes and Paperwork Before Departure
Relocating to Indonesia can impact your tax status both in Indonesia and your home country. Proper planning helps you avoid double taxation and departing complications.
Tax Residency in Indonesia
- If you spend more than 183 days in a calendar year in Indonesia, you are automatically considered a tax resident and subject to local taxation.
- Income tax on individuals (PPh 21) may apply to your global income.
- You must obtain an Exit Permit Only (EPO) prior to final departure; it is issued only after confirming your tax reporting is complete.
What to Settle Before Leaving
- Close or suspend your sole proprietorship if you will still have income in your home country.
- Consult with an international accountant—especially if your home country and Indonesia do not have a double tax treaty.
- Check if you are required to obtain an NPWP (Indonesian Tax ID). It’s mandatory for income earners or KITAS holders in Indonesia.
3. Financial Matters and Banking
Access to money abroad is crucial for a smooth transition. Set up your financial tools early, especially if you're not planning to get a KITAS right away.
Opening a Bank Account in Indonesia
- Only available with a long-term visa (KITAS).
- Required documents: passport, KITAS, a rental contract that shows your address, and in some cases, NPWP.
Prepare in Advance
- Get international debit cards or those from banks with low overseas withdrawal/conversion fees.
- Notify your bank of your extended travel to avoid card blocks.
- Issue a power of attorney authorizing a trusted person to manage your financial affairs back home.
4. Health Insurance
Healthcare in Indonesia is paid, particularly in private clinics. Without insurance, medical treatment can be expensive—and not always high-quality.
When Choosing a Policy, Verify:
- Coverage for inpatient care and treatment at reputable facilities (e.g., Siloam, BIMC, Kasih Ibu).
- Availability of direct billing—so the insurer pays the clinic directly without you paying out-of-pocket.
- Coverage for medical evacuation in case of emergency transport to Singapore or Australia.
Note: Some types of KITAS require valid health insurance at the time of application.
5. Housing in Indonesia
The Indonesian rental market ranges from modest rooms to luxury villas by the sea. The rental process differs from what you might be used to in Europe or the CIS countries.
Key Price Factors
- Location — housing in Bali (especially Canggu or Ubud) tends to cost more than in Java or Lombok.
- Season — prices rise during peak tourist seasons.
- Rental type — monthly rentals are usually more affordable than daily or weekly options.
Estimated Costs
- Basic studios — from 3–5 million IDR/month (~200–300 USD).
- Bali villas — from 15–25 million IDR/month (~950–1,600 USD), depending on area and amenities.
Before Arrival
- Book temporary lodging for at least 1–2 weeks to explore options on the ground.
- Ensure your name is listed on your rental agreement—it’s often needed for KITAS processing.
- Confirm availability of Wi-Fi, air conditioning, water filters, and security features.
6. What to Finalize at Home Before Leaving
Once you’ve relocated, resolving everyday life tasks back home can be very challenging. Handle them in advance.
Gather and Pack:
- Originals and copies of all documents: passport, visa, insurance, medical papers, bookings, flight tickets.
- A flash drive or cloud storage with digital backups.
- Offline apps: maps (Google Maps, Maps.me), translators, transport apps (Grab, Gojek).
Arrange Domestic Matters:
- Cancel automated payments for utilities and recurring services.
- Deactivate your mobile plan or switch to basic roaming.
- Inform your neighbors or building manager of your departure.
- Give power of attorney to someone you trust for managing emergencies or paperwork.
7. Stay Duration and Possible Fines
Indonesia enforces visa rules strictly. Overstaying can result in serious penalties or even deportation.
Fines for Overstaying
- 1,000,000 IDR (~65 USD) per day over the visa limit.
- More than 60 days overdue — deportation and blacklisting.
- Maximum overstay fine — 25,000,000 IDR.
How to Avoid Issues:
- Track your visa validity and renew at least 14 days before expiry.
- Use local visa agents—they’re less costly than fixing mistakes later.
How to Avoid Mistakes When Relocating to Indonesia
Relocating is a complex but life-enhancing journey. Plan ahead—from visas to housing, taxes to communications. Proper preparation will save you money, reduce stress, and provide confidence in your new environment.
Use this checklist as your roadmap—and begin your life in Indonesia confidently, legally, and without unexpected surprises.
{
"prompt": "A realistic photo of a modern digital nomad preparing for relocation to Indonesia: a young person sitting with a laptop and travel documents spread out on a desk, showing a passport, Indonesian visa papers, apartment rental contract, and a checklist. The background includes a globe, tropical plants, and an open suitcase. Lighting is soft and natural, with a warm color tone. Scene evokes preparation, organization, and anticipation of travel.",
"style": "photorealistic"
}
