Indonesia Emergency Stay Permit (ITKT)

In early March 2026, conflicts in the Middle East disrupted international flights, including delayed departures, last-minute schedule changes, and unexpected cancellations. In response, the government told certain airport-linked immigration office teams to help passengers affected by these disruptions, including giving an emergency stay permit (called ITKT) for people whose stay was about to expire.

If you’re a tourist, a long-term resident, or one of the foreign nationals stuck in Indonesian territory because your flight status suddenly changed, this article explains what an indonesia emergency stay permit is, who can get it, and what to do next, without legal jargon.

What is an “Indonesia emergency stay permit”?

An Indonesia emergency stay permit is a legal “backup” stay option when you can’t leave on time, and your normal stay permit is about to run out.

In Indonesian rules, this is called Izin Tinggal Keadaan Terpaksa (ITKT). It can be given when your stay time ends in “certain situations,” such as humanitarian needs or a disaster.

Here’s the key part: ITKT is temporary. It is not the same as a long-term visa, and it does not replace a permanent stay permit. It is more like an “emergency status” bridge, so you can stay legally while you fix the problem.

Why ITKT matters (especially during flight disruptions)

When flights get messy, time moves fast. You might wake up thinking you’ll leave Indonesia tonight, then your airline sends an alert: your route is canceled, the airport is packed, and the next seat is days away.

That’s how people end up overstaying, without trying to break any rules.

In March 2026, Immigration said airport-based offices should give ITKT (up to 30 days) and, in that specific situation, apply a Rp 0 overstay tariff for people who overstayed because of the airspace disruption, as long as they attach a declaration/statement from airline or airport aviation authorities.

This is important: that “Rp 0” part is not automatically applicable to every case. It depends on the event and the provision in force at that time, plus your proof.

Who can get an emergency stay permit?

Indonesia’s regulations list four main reasons an ITKT can be granted:

1. Humanitarian reasons (for example, you’re sick and need care)
2. Natural and non-natural disasters (like volcano disruptions, major transport shutdowns)
3. You’re in Indonesia for deportation processing, but not placed in detention
4. A government interest situation

The permit can be granted by immigration decision-makers such as the Director General, the head of an immigration office, or an appointed officer covering your area.

And yes, this can apply to many types of foreigners:

• Tourists on a visit visa
• KITAS holders
• ITAP holders (people with a permanent stay permit / izin tinggal tetap)
• Business travelers
• Other foreigners whose stay is about to end

How long does ITKT last, and can you extend it?

ITKT is granted for up to 30 days, and it can be extended, also up to 30 days per extension.

So if your flight is still not possible, you can request an extension, but you should act early and follow the official process.

What to do (step-by-step) if you’re at risk of overstaying

Step 1: Check your flight status and save evidence

Before you do anything else, confirm your flight status in the airline’s official channels (their official app, email, or booking portal). Take screenshots and save emails.

Even if you only see a few routes affected, maybe your airline cancels eight international flights on a bad day, but what matters is your own ticket and your own date and booking record.

Step 2: Contact the right people (airport vs local)

• If the problem is happening at the airport (mass flight cancellations, chaos at check-in, blocked airspace, big schedule shifts), start with airline staff and airport authorities. In past events, Immigration set up airport task forces to help affected passengers.
• If you’re already in town (Bali, Jakarta, Surabaya, etc.), contact your local immigration office (Kantor Imigrasi) or the immigration authorities responsible for where you stay.

Step 3: Prepare supporting documents

ITKT is about supporting documents. You’re basically showing: “My permit is ending, and this emergency is real.”

Documents you may need (bring copies + originals):

• Passport (valid and not damaged)
• Your current visa / stay permit details (e-visa, ITAS/ITAP card info, entry stamp, etc.)
• Proof your flight was canceled or changed:
  • Airline email or rebooking notice
  • Ticket/itinerary
  • If required for a specific emergency policy: an airline/aviation statement or letter from airport authorities
• If it’s medical (humanitarian):
  • Hospital admission letter, doctor’s letter, medical record, or a government doctor’s recommendation
• If it’s a disaster situation:
  • Evidence of disruption (official announcements, closure notices, etc.) and your stay permit info

Step 4: Submit the request at the nearest immigration office

To apply for an Indonesia emergency stay permit (ITKT), submit your application through the nearest/local immigration office (Kantor Imigrasi) that has jurisdiction over your current address in Indonesian territory. Bring your passport, stay permit/visa details, and all supporting documents (like an airline cancellation statement if your flights were canceled).

Step 5: Keep your ITKT proof ready

Immigration can issue ITKT electronically. Save a PDF copy on your phone and email it to yourself.

This helps if you face checks, hotel questions, or travel inspections.

Overstay fines: what happens if you ignore them?

If your stay permit has expired and you do nothing, you can face fines.

Indonesia’s Immigration has explained that:

• Overstaying less than 60 days can mean a fine of Rp 1,000,000 per day
• If you don’t pay, you can face deportation and an entry ban
• Oversaying more than 60 days can lead straight to deportation and an entry ban

That’s why ITKT (emergency stay) matters: it helps you stay legal while you sort out flights, documents, or a force majeure situation.

Quick FAQ

Do I need to contact my embassy?
Your embassy can help you with travel documents or guidance, but the permit decision is made by Indonesian Immigration.

Is ITKT the same as an extension of my visa?
Not exactly. ITKT is a special emergency stay tool for certain situations.

Can I get a free consultation?
Some private immigration assistance providers offer a free consultation, but always confirm information with an immigration office or official Immigration contact before you act.