Understanding Calling Visa: Process and Requirements You Need to Know Before Coming to Indonesia

oktarina
September 19, 2025
15 min read

A Calling Visa for Indonesia is a special visa application process for citizens from certain countries considered high risk. Factors such as ideology, politics, economics, social and cultural, national defense and security, and immigration status are taken into account in this policy. The main purpose of this process is to assess the risk before granting entry permission, to make sure that people entering Indonesia don’t pose any threat to the country. This visa allows nationals from specific countries to enter Indonesia for a short period, usually 30 days. These countries are designated as ‘calling visa countries’, meaning their nationals require this special visa to enter Indonesia due to government regulations and risk factors. The process of obtaining a Calling Visa can also be more costly compared to regular visas because of additional requirements and fees.
If you are from a specific country and planning to apply for a Calling Visa to Indonesia, you need to understand the process well. You will also need to obtain official authorization from Indonesian authorities as part of the application process. This article will provide you with the whole process, required documents and tips to make it easier. Read on to prepare everything!
What is a Calling Visa?
A Calling Visa is a type of visa for citizens from countries with stricter immigration policy. This visa is needed for those entering Indonesia for purposes that require more intensive monitoring, such as business, work or reasons that may affect international relations. A Calling Visa is different from a regular visa because it’s for more sensitive purposes, especially those related to security, politics or diplomatic relations between countries.
This visa is specifically for citizens from countries that are considered high risk and are subject to the Calling Visa policy based on factors such as ideology, politics, economics, social, cultural issues and potential threats to national defense and security. The Indonesian government assesses these factors to make sure that applicants from such countries don’t pose risks to the country, and requires more in-depth analysis before granting entry. The policy applies to specific nationalities as determined by Indonesian immigration regulations.
The process of applying for a Calling Visa in Indonesia involves additional steps not required for regular visas. First, applicants go through a verification process, where Indonesian immigration authorities make sure there’s no potential threat. Then the visa application is reviewed by a special team called the “clearing house” which analyzes the risk involved in granting entry.
Only after the clearing house’s approval and analysis is the visa issued. The decision is confirmed by the relevant authorities before the visa is issued. This process ensures that every visa applicant has gone through thorough checks and meets the security standard set by the Indonesian government. The main purpose of issuing a Calling Visa is to protect Indonesia from unwanted political, economic or ideological activities and to maintain diplomatic relations with other countries.
Which Countries Need a Calling Visa?

A Calling Visa is not for everyone. Only citizens from specific countries need to apply for this visa when traveling to Indonesia or other countries. Countries with sensitive political, social or security situation have this policy to better monitor their citizens. The following countries’ citizens need to apply for a Calling Visa:
- Afghanistan
Due to unstable political and security conditions, Afghan citizens need to apply for a Calling Visa. This is to regulate their travel and minimize risks. Citizens from Afghanistan may also be unable to return home safely due to conflict or persecution, which is a factor in the visa policy. - Israel
Although Israel is a developed country with extensive international relations, its complex political situation and diplomatic sensitivity with certain countries require Israeli citizens to apply for a Calling Visa. This is to monitor their travel closely. - North Korea
North Korea has a highly controlled government and its citizens need to apply for a Calling Visa. This is to monitor and control the purpose of their travel more strictly. - Liberia
With its history of political instability, Liberia is another country whose citizens need to apply for a Calling Visa. This policy regulates the movement of its citizens and international travel. - Nigeria
Nigeria has a high crime rate and social issues. As a preventive measure, a Calling Visa is required for its citizens to make it easier for the government to control travel and mitigate risks. - Somalia
Somalia is also included in the list of countries requiring a Calling Visa due to its high political and social instability. This policy ensures the government can better control the travel of its citizens.
Why Are These Countries Set as Calling Visa Countries?
Several countries require their citizens to apply for a Calling Visa before traveling abroad including to Indonesia. This is for national security, diplomatic relations and control of international travel. Here’s a more detailed explanation why these countries need to apply for a Calling Visa:
- Security
Countries with high crime rate or political instability such as Nigeria and Somalia use the Calling Visa as a preventive measure to ensure security. Citizens from these countries may pose risks to criminal activities or radicalization so tighter surveillance is needed. Calling Visas ensure their movement is monitored, reducing potential threat to the destination country. - Diplomatic Relations
For countries with sensitive diplomatic relations like Israel, the Calling Visa maintains stability in international relations. Although Israel is a developed country, it has complex relations with several other countries and the Calling Visa policy allows the destination country to monitor the travel of Israeli citizens more closely. This is to avoid political tension or other issues that may arise from the arrival of their nationals. - Control of Travel
The Calling Visa gives the destination country more control over who can enter especially from countries with social, political or immigration related issues. This policy allows the destination country to scrutinize each visa applicant more thoroughly to ensure they don’t bring any potential risks. It minimizes the threats that may arise from international travel, ensures national security and allows only those who meet the criteria to enter.
Read more: Visa Free Entry to Indonesia 2025: The Complete Guide You Need to Know!
Policy and Legal Basis for Calling Visa

The Calling Visa is regulated by the immigration policies of each country, with clear legal foundations regarding the process and requirements for applying for this visa. Each country that enforces the Calling Visa has regulations established by the government or its embassies, generally following applicable international standards. Below are the legal bases that govern the issuance of this visa:
- Law No. 6 of 2011 on ImmigrationThis law regulates various types of visas that can be issued by Indonesia, including the Calling Visa.
- Regulation of the Minister of Law and Human RightsThis regulation provides more detailed requirements and procedures for applying for a visa, including the Calling Visa, to ensure the application complies with the established regulations.
This policy is implemented to regulate who must apply for the Calling Visa before traveling to Indonesia, particularly for nationals from countries with a high-risk profile. These aspects include:
- Ideology: If the applicant’s home country has an ideology that contradicts the values of the destination country, stricter surveillance will be applied to their travel.
- Politics: Political instability in the applicant’s home country, including potential radical movements, is one of the factors considered.
- Economy: Countries with significant economic issues that may increase the risk of social unrest or illegal migration are carefully evaluated in the application process.
- Social and Cultural: Significant differences in social and cultural norms are considered, as they may affect interactions in the destination country.
- Defense and Security: If there are threats to national defense and security in the applicant’s home country, such as terrorism or armed conflict, the visa application process will be stricter.
- Immigration: Immigration issues, such as a poor immigration record or visa misuse, are also important factors in the risk assessment.
Types of Calling Visas
There are several types of Calling Visas depending on the purpose of the applicant’s trip. Each visa is designed to meet different needs from tourism to business or employment purposes. Different types of Calling Visas may have varying fees that must be paid as part of the application process. Here are some common types of Calling Visas:
1. Tourist Visa
This visa is for citizens who want to travel for tourism. The Calling Visa for tourism allows the destination country to control who enters as a tourist. Applicants usually need to provide a clear travel plan such as hotel reservations or return tickets to prove they are only visiting for tourism and not for longer stay or unauthorized work. Travelers with a Calling Visa can stay in Indonesia for a maximum of 60 days.
2. Business Visa
The Calling for visa business is required for those traveling abroad for business purposes such as attending meetings, forming partnerships or expanding a business. Applicants are usually required to provide proof of business purpose such as official invitation from a company in the destination country or business contract.
3. Educational Visa
For students or individuals who want to pursue higher education abroad, the Calling Visa for education ensures the purpose is legitimate. Applicants must provide proof of acceptance from an educational institution such as an admission letter or scholarship as part of the visa application process.
4. Foreign Worker Visa
This visa is issued to individuals who want to work in Indonesia including in sectors like technology, healthcare or education. Applicants must provide a work contract or invitation letter from a company in Indonesia to prove they will be employed in the country. This work visa process usually involves verification from the inviting company to ensure the work complies with local regulations.
5. Family Visa
This visa allows the family members of the primary visa holder (such as foreign workers or businesspeople) to live in Indonesia during the validity of the main visa. It allows spouses, children or other family members to stay in Indonesia while their relatives work or do business there.
How to Applying for a Calling Visa

The process of applying for a Calling Visa is similar to applying for a regular visa but with additional steps to be followed carefully. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the application process for a Calling Visa:
1. Initial Registration
The first step in applying for a Calling Visa is to register and fill out the appropriate visa application form for the destination country. Make sure to choose the right visa type such as business, education or tourism depending on your travel purpose. Before filling out the form check for any specific requirements set by the destination country. Some countries may require online registration while others may require direct submission at an embassy or consulate.
2. Document Preparation
Once you have completed the application form the next step is to prepare the necessary documents. Commonly required documents include: Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your arrival date in the destination country.
- Proof of Travel Purpose: This could be a flight ticket, official invitation for a business event, acceptance letter from a school (for study purposes) or hotel reservations for tourism. Calling Visa requires applicants to submit specific documents at their country’s Indonesian embassy or consulate.
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your arrival date in the destination country.Proof of Travel Purpose: This could be a flight ticket, official invitation for a business event, acceptance letter from a school (for study purposes) or hotel reservations for tourism.
- Invitation Letter: If you are applying for business visa you’ll need an official invitation from the company hosting you or documents related to your business activities.
- Other Supporting Documents: Some countries may ask for additional documents such as proof of finances (to ensure you can support yourself during your stay), travel insurance or documents explaining your employment status. Check the specific requirements.
3. Verification Process
Once all the documents are submitted the destination country will begin the verification process. Some countries may require you to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate. This step allows immigration officers to ensure your travel purpose is valid and all documents are in order.
- Interview: If required the interview is an opportunity for you to explain your travel plans, clarify your purpose for visiting and provide additional details about your trip.
- Background Checks: Some countries may conduct background checks or deeper risk analysis on visa applicants especially for citizens from high-risk countries.
4. Announcement of Results
After the verification process is completed the embassy or consulate will announce the result of your visa application. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the country and type of visa you applied for. If your application is approved the visa will be issued and can be collected directly from the embassy or mailed to you. If your application is rejected you will be informed of the reasons for the denial and in some cases you may be given the opportunity to appeal or correct any mistakes in your application.
Read more: Concierge Visa Services for Remote Workers in Bali
Calling Visa Application Requirements
Note: Please be aware that requirements for a Calling Visa may vary depending on the latest immigration regulations and updates from the destination country. Always check for any recent changes or specific instructions before applying.
To apply for a Calling Visa there are several important requirements you need to meet to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are the common requirements typically asked for by embassies or consulates:
- Valid Passport
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your arrival date in the destination country. A passport that is close to expiring can delay the visa application so check your passport’s expiration date well in advance. - Invitation Letter
An invitation letter from a company, educational institution or other sponsor is essential for the visa application. This letter explains the purpose of your visit whether for business, study or other reason. Ensure the invitation letter is complete and includes all required information. - Proof of Employment or Business
If your purpose is to work or do business you need to provide proof such as work contract or official documents from the company. This ensures your trip is in line with the visa type you applied for. - Other Supporting Documents
Depending on the visa type you may need to provide additional documents. For example proof of financial ability to support your travel or valid health insurance for the duration of your stay abroad. Check for any additional requirements set by the destination country.
Having all these documents in order will help speed up the Calling Visa process and avoid delays or denials. Make sure each document meets the required standards to ensure your application goes smoothly.
Tips for a Smooth Calling Visa Application

Applying for a Calling Visa can be a complicated process if not done correctly. To help ensure your application goes smoothly here are some tips to follow:
- Check the Requirements Carefully
Before applying for a Calling Visa make sure you check all the necessary requirements. This is crucial to ensure all documents are complete and meet the necessary guidelines. Missing or incorrect documents can delay or even result in visa rejection. - Apply for Your Visa Early
Visa applications, especially Calling Visas, can take time. Don’t wait until the last minute to apply. The earlier you submit your application the more time you have to resolve any issues and wait for a decision without rushing. - Stay Updated on Changes
Visa regulations can change over time including Calling Visa policies. Make sure you stay informed about any updates to the application process or requirements. Visit the embassy or consulate’s website regularly to get the latest information. - Use Visa Concierge Service
If you want the application process to be more convenient consider using a visa concierge service by Bali Premium Trip. This service offers full assistance through every step of the application from document verification to form filling and interview scheduling. With this service you can rest easy knowing professionals are handling the details of your visa application.
For answers to common questions about the Calling Visa process, including eligibility, application procedures, and required documents, consult the FAQ section.
Apply for Your Calling Visa Hassle-Free with Bali Premium Trip!
Calling Visa is a special visa required for citizens from certain countries with stricter immigration policies. This visa is needed for those traveling for more sensitive purposes such as business, education or work especially for countries with high risks related to security, politics or diplomatic relations. Citizens from these countries must apply for a Calling Visa to ensure their travels are closely monitored by the destination country. The application process for this visa involves more in-depth document checks and additional requirements.
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