Moving to Bali with kids isn’t just about finding a house and a school. You also have to sort out visas, so the whole family can stay here legally. For school-age kids, one common choice is the Student KITAS. It lets your child live in Indonesia while they study at an approved school. If you are planning to relocate to Bali, this guide explains how the Student KITAS works, which schools may offer sponsorship, what documents you need, and what to consider when arranging visas for your family.
What Is a Student KITAS in Bali?
A Student KITAS is a temporary residence permit for eligible foreign students studying in Indonesia.
KITAS stands for Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas, commonly translated as a limited stay permit. The term is widely used when discussing temporary residence permits for foreign nationals. Indonesia’s E30A visa category covers formal primary and secondary education. This visa type is eligible for school-age children attending a qualifying school in Bali.
A Student KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit) is a good option for families planning a longer stay, since it ties your child’s residency to their education. If one parent already holds a qualifying residence permit in Indonesia, their child may be able to get a permit through family sponsorship. Many parents don’t realize this option exists.
Does Your Child Need a Student Visa to Attend School in Bali?
Not every foreign child at school in Bali needs their own Student KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit). It depends on the child’s current visa, how long your family plans to stay, what the school requires, and whether one parent can sponsor the child’s residence permit.
A family move to Bali for several years may need a different arrangement from a family staying for one school term.
There are three main situations to consider.
- Your child needs a Student KITAS
A Student KITAS may be appropriate when your child is eligible for the E30A visa, and the school can provide the required sponsorship or supporting documents.
Some international schools offer student visa assistance as part of their admissions process. Others may require parents to arrange the visa separately.
- Your child can stay under a parent’s residence permit
If a parent holds an eligible KITAS or KITAP, the child may qualify for a family-based residence permit. For example, the Visa E31E category covers an unmarried biological child under 18 joining a parent who holds an eligible limited or permanent stay permit. Eligibility depends on the parent’s immigration status and the child’s circumstances.
- Your family plans a shorter stay
Families visiting Bali for a limited period should check whether a suitable visit visa meets their needs. The permitted activities and length of stay depend on the visa category. School admission does not automatically determine which visa is appropriate.
A common misconception is that a tourist visa allows a child to attend school, but that’s rarely the case. Not sure which visa your child qualifies for? eVisa Bali can help. We’re a trusted visa agency based in Sanur, right next to Sanur International Hospital, and we’ll help you choose the visa that best fits your family’s needs.
Which Schools in Bali Can Sponsor a Student KITAS?
Bali has a range of international schools offering different curricula, including the International Baccalaureate, Cambridge, Australian, British, and Montessori approaches.
However, a school’s ability to enrol foreign students does not automatically mean it can sponsor a Student KITAS.
Some schools provide immigration assistance directly, while others work with external visa providers or ask parents to manage the process.
Here are several schools worth contacting when researching education options in Bali.
- Bali Island School
Located in Sanur, Bali Island School offers the International Baccalaureate programme. Its admissions information states that the school can sponsor and assist with student KITAS applications for students who require one.
- Canggu Community School
Canggu Community School serves international families in the Canggu area and offers a range of educational programmes.
- Green School Bali
Green School Bali offers an education focused on sustainability, environmental awareness, and experiential learning.
- Australian Independent School Bali
Australian Independent School Bali offers an international education pathway for students in Bali.
- Dyatmika School
Dyatmika School, located in the Sanur area, offers an education pathway combining international and Indonesian educational elements.
Student Visa Requirements for Children in Bali
The documents required for a Student KITAS depend on the visa category, the applicant’s circumstances, and the sponsor’s requirements.
For an E30A application, the family must prepare the following documents::
* A valid passport for your child
* A recent passport photo
* An official acceptance or enrollment letter from the school
* A birth certificate showing the relationship between the child and parents
* Supporting documents from the school or another eligible sponsor
* Proof of sufficient funds, if required
* Any other documents requested by Indonesian Immigration
It is also sensible to prepare important family documents before moving to Bali. Obtaining replacements from overseas can take time.
How to Apply for a Student KITAS in Bali
The process usually starts with choosing a school and confirming that your child is eligible for the appropriate visa. The process usually starts with choosing a school and making sure your child meets the requirements for the right visa. The exact steps can vary, but here’s what you’ll need to prepare before you apply.
Step 1: Choose a School and Confirm Admission
Research schools that match your child’s age, educational needs, and preferred curriculum. Once you have selected a school, contact the admissions team to ask about available places, enrolment fees, and immigration support.
Step 2: Confirm the Visa Category
Ask the school whether your child qualifies for an E30A Student Visa and whether the school can provide the necessary sponsorship. This is particularly important for families with children in preschool or kindergarten, as the available visa options may differ from those for primary and secondary students.
Step 3: Prepare the Documents
Collect the documents listed in the current immigration requirements. Check passport validity, obtain the school acceptance letter, and prepare any birth certificates or supporting family documents need.
If you’re working with a visa agent in Bali, ask them for a written checklist so you can get everything ready before the application starts.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Applications are generally handled through Indonesia’s official electronic visa system. The relevant sponsor or applicant must follow the procedure for the chosen visa category and submit the required supporting documents.
Step 5: Follow the Instructions After Approval
Once the visa has been approved, follow the official instructions for entering Indonesia and obtaining the relevant stay permit. Keep copies of the visa approval and immigration documents.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Student KITAS?
Processing times depend on the visa category, the completeness of the application, and the workload of the immigration authorities. The school admission process may also take time, particularly if the school has limited places or requires assessments before confirming enrolment. For this reason, best to begin planning several months before your intended move.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right school and visa arrangement is an important part of moving to Bali with children. The E30A Student Visa may be suitable for eligible primary and secondary students, but it is not the only option for every family. Children who meet the requirements set by the immigration authorities can obtain a residence permit through their parents. For younger children, though, the rules may be different. First, pick a school and ask what visa your child will need. Then look at which visa options fit your family. Before you apply or pay anyone to help, make sure you’ve checked the latest rules.
