By Joshua Duvauchelle
What Are the Qualifications for an Indonesian Passport?
Indonesia is a democratic Southeast Asian nation made up of more than 17,000 islands. As of the July 2009, Indonesia's population is estimated to be 240,271,522, making it the fifth most populous country in the world. Because of its large population, millions of travelers cross Indonesia's borders every year. Possessing an Indonesian passport makes re-entry into the country easier. However, applicants must meet certain qualifications for a passport.
Indonesian Citizenship
All applicants must be a citizen of Indonesia, though they do not need to be residents. To prove nationality, applicants must be in possession of a Kartu Tanda Penduduk, or national identity card. This card not only establishes citizenship, but also acts as an official photo ID and includes residential tax numbers, the owner's birth date and religion, and biometric data. Alternatively, applicants may establish citizenship using an original birth certificate showing the location of birth in one of Indonesia's 33 provinces.
Positive Social Standing
Applicants must be deemed to be in good social standing. To prove this, they must submit a written letter of recommendation from a boss or supervisor. The letter must describe the person's work and state the applicant's character qualities.
Ability to Apply In-Person
Indonesian passports require biometric data inputs. Applicants must apply in person at their nearest Indonesian immigration office or international Indonesian embassy. The passport officer will take a biometric photo and scan an applicant's fingerprints. This information is then entered into the digital data file encoded in the Indonesian passport. Applicants may also be interviewed by a passport officer to verify information on their passport documents.
Department of Immigration
Jl. Rasuna Said Kav 8-9 Kuningan R
South Jakarta, Jakarta
Indonesia
+61 (021) 522-4658
http://www.imigrasi.go.id
Passport Fees
Applicants must pay their application fee upon submitting their passport application. As of 2009, the fee for an Indonesian passport is $50. Payment may be accepted in cash or via credit and debit card, depending on the individual embassy or immigration office at which you apply.
Resources
About the Author:
Joshua Duvauchelle is an editor and journalist who has been writing since 2000. His work has appeared in various national and international magazines, including "Honolulu Magazine." Duvauchelle graduated with honors from Trinity Western University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in professional communications, and earned a certificate in applied leadership and public affairs from the Laurentian Leadership Centre.
Photo Credits:
Blas Lamagni
