Planned Replacement of Online Portal Causes Visa Application Delays

 

The upcoming replacement of the old online visa pre-approval application system with a new system may result in start date delays, as companies that have not yet received a new login identification number under the new system cannot obtain the limited stay visa pre-approval (‘Telex VITAS’). Similarly, pre-approval applications for the multiple-entry business visa (MEBV) are also expected to be affected. At this time, the new system is closed and the old system is currently being used.

The Telex VITAS pre-approval is necessary in order to continue with the work permit application process. The MEBV pre-approval is required for individuals applying for an MEBV at Indonesian embassies/consulates abroad.

The New Online Portal

In November 2014, the Directorate General of Immigration (DGI) in Indonesia advised that a new online application system was to be implemented, and recommended that companies complete the document verification process and obtain a new user identification as soon as possible.

The DGI has started sending invitation letters to schedule appointments for original corporate document verification, where previously, it sent officers to verify documents. Many registered companies have yet to either receive officer visits or invitation requests, or if they have received letters, appointments have been delayed. These setbacks are expected to cause significant delays in the work permit application process as companies are unable to utilize the new online portal to apply for the Telex VITAS. As the system is new, delays caused by system failures or shutdowns is also expected.

In addition, as part of the new online application system, employers must upload either the company's or the employee's most recent month’s bank statement for the Telex VITAS application.

What This Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals

Companies that have yet to receive the new login identification number should work with their immigration professional to follow up with the DGI. Companies that already have a functioning login identification number should prepare a recent bank statement to be submitted as part of the Telex VITAS application process.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].

 

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