A small change can make a big difference—especially for expatriates in Indonesia navigating airport procedures. In an exciting move, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport has officially opened its autogate system to ITAP and ITAS holders, streamlining immigration checks for thousands of long-term residents.
This update marks a significant shift in Indonesia’s efforts to improve convenience for foreign nationals and residents, aligning with global standards of airport efficiency and security.
What’s New?
Until recently, Indonesia’s autogate e-immigration lanes were only accessible to Indonesian citizens or foreign passport holders with e-passports who had registered with immigration services. But as of early 2024, that’s changed.
According to the Directorate General of Immigration,
“Foreigners who hold ITAP or ITAS can now use the autogate facility at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.”
This means that eligible expats can now skip the manual counter and use the fast-track automated gates when entering or exiting the country via Jakarta’s main airport.
What Are ITAP and ITAS?
For those new to Indonesian immigration terms:
- ITAP (Izin Tinggal Tetap) is a Permanent Stay Permit, usually valid for five years and renewable.
- ITAS (Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is a Temporary Stay Permit, often granted for work, family, or investment purposes, valid for 1–2 years.
These permits are commonly held by foreign professionals, long-term residents, company executives, and their families. Previously, even with these official documents, they still needed to go through standard immigration queues—until now.
Why It Matters for Expats
This seemingly simple update can significantly improve the arrival and departure experience for thousands of expats living in Indonesia:
- Faster clearance through immigration at Soekarno-Hatta
- Reduced waiting times during peak travel hours
- A more dignified and efficient process for long-term contributors to Indonesia’s economy
- Alignment with global travel norms where residence permit holders enjoy certain privileges
As WhatsNewIndonesia reports,
“The autogate lanes are designed to speed up the immigration process, and this update ensures that foreign residents are no longer excluded from these benefits.”
How to Access the Autogate
To use the autogate system, ITAS/ITAP holders must meet the following conditions:
- Hold a biometric passport (e-passport)
- Ensure that their ITAS or ITAP is active and valid
- Register at the immigration counter at the airport if it’s their first time using the autogate
- Use the autogate only at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta)—as this is the currently designated location
More airports may follow in the future, but for now, Soekarno-Hatta is leading the way in digital immigration convenience for expats.
A Small Step, A Big Win
For expatriates working and living in Indonesia, smoother airport procedures are more than just a convenience—they’re a reflection of inclusion and recognition. This update supports Indonesia’s image as an increasingly expat-friendly destination.
Whether you’re flying in for work, heading out for a holiday, or just returning from a visa run—this small adjustment can make a big impact on your journey.
Relocating to Indonesia?
If you’re just starting your relocation journey, or planning a longer stay with an ITAS or ITAP, Noble Asia is here to guide you through every step—home search, school selection, document support, and more.
📩 Talk to our relocation experts today. Let’s make Indonesia feel like home—seamlessly.
