Foreign nationals residing in Indonesia can apply for an Indonesian ID card (e-KTP), but only if they hold a Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP). According to Indonesia’s Population Administration Law, every resident has the right to receive civil registration and population administration services.
In line with Law No. 24 of 2013 on Population Administration, “residents” are defined as Indonesian citizens and foreigners who live in Indonesia. Issuing e-KTPs to foreign nationals helps ensure they receive equal services in population registration, legal certainty over ownership of civil documents, and protection of personal data.
Legal Basis and Requirements for Foreigners to Obtain an e-KTP
The requirements for e-KTP issuance to foreigners are outlined in Article 1, Paragraph 13 of Law No. 24 of 2013, which amends Article 63, Paragraph (1) of the Population Administration Law. It states:
“Residents who are Indonesian citizens and foreigners with permanent stay permits, aged 17 or older, or married, are required to have an e-KTP.”
As for foreigners, they must have a residential address in Indonesia to apply for an e-KTP. They need to visit the nearest Civil Registry Service Office (Disdukcapil) for biometric recording and submit the required documents.
Therefore, once foreign nationals meet these conditions, they can apply for an e-KTP in Indonesia.
As per Presidential Regulation No. 96 of 2018 on Population Registration and Civil Registration, foreign nationals must provide these required documents:
1. Family Card (Kartu Keluarga)
2. Travel Documents (e.g., passport)
3. Certificate of Residence
4. Permanent Stay Permit Card (KITAP) issued by Immigration
e-KTP Benefits for Foreign Nationals
An e-KTP allows foreign nationals to access various services in Indonesia, including obtaining a driver’s license (SIM), opening bank accounts, securing insurance, and more, as it provides a unique identification number.
The validity of an e-KTP for foreigners aligns with the validity of their KITAP. If the KITAP is valid for two years, the e-KTP is also valid for two years. Foreign nationals must renew both their KITAP and e-KTP at least 30 days before expiration if they intend to stay in Indonesia.
Key Differences Between e-KTP for Indonesians and Foreign Nationals
While similar in appearance, there are some differences between e-KTPs issued to Indonesian citizens and foreign nationals:
1. Validity Period: The e-KTP for foreign nationals is valid only as long as their KITAP remains valid. Renewals must be done in accordance with KITAP renewal timelines.
2. Language: Personal information, such as nationality, is listed in English, and citizenship reflects the foreign national’s country of origin.
3. Card Color: The e-KTP for foreign nationals is orange or pink.
It’s important to note that foreign nationals with an e-KTP do not have political rights in Indonesia, such as voting in elections.
A Real-Life Example: An Australian Obtaining an e-KTP in Jember
Edward, an Australian citizen, successfully recorded his biometric data for an e-KTP at the Civil Registry Service Office in Jember. He was accompanied by his wife, Havi, a resident of Patrang District, on January 13, 2025.
Edward shared his positive experience: “The service was excellent. I didn’t have to wait long for the recording process. Quick and easy.”
By following the outlined steps and ensuring the necessary documents are prepared, foreign nationals can smoothly apply for an e-KTP and enjoy the benefits of Indonesia’s civil administration system.
Source: tempo.co, dispendukcapil.jemberkab.go.id
Special Photo Credit: Vega M Ula via murianews.com
