🅿️ Many foreigners living in Bali dream of visiting Europe, but aren’t sure if they can apply for a Schengen visa without a KITAS (stay permit) 😕 If you’re on a tourist visa or social visa, you might feel stuck or think you’re not eligible to apply from Indonesia at all.
🅰️ The visa process can feel confusing—especially when some embassies say you need residency in Indonesia to apply 😰 This uncertainty stops many travelers from even trying. Others spend money on agents or tickets without knowing the rules and get rejected before the interview stage.
🆂 The truth? Yes—you can apply for a Schengen visa from Bali without a KITAS ✅ Certain embassies in Jakarta and consulates in Bali (like VFS Global in Kuta) allow non-KITAS holders to apply, as long as your documents are in order and your stay is still valid.
🆃 “I applied on a tourist visa while staying in Canggu,” says Nina, a yoga instructor from Brazil. “I didn’t have KITAS, but the VFS center accepted my documents and I got my Schengen visa approved in 12 days!” 🌍
🅴 For example, travelers with tourist or B211 visas often succeed when they provide strong ties to their home country, solid financial proof, and a detailed travel itinerary—even without residency status in Indonesia 📋
🅰️ Want to explore Europe without waiting for a KITAS? 🗺️ Read on to learn which embassies allow it, how to book appointments in Bali, and what to prepare to boost your chances of Schengen visa approval—no matter your visa type.
Table of Contents
- Can You Really Apply for a Schengen Visa in Bali Without a KITAS? 🛂
- Why Tourist Visa Holders Often Get Confused About Schengen Applications 😕
- How VFS Global in Kuta Helps Travelers Apply Without Residency 📍
- What Documents You Must Prepare Without a KITAS 📋
- Common Mistakes Non-KITAS Holders Make When Applying in Bali ❌
- Tips to Strengthen Your Application as a Tourist in Indonesia 💡
- Which Embassies in Indonesia Accept KITAS-Free Applications 🏛️
- FAQs About Applying for a Schengen Visa Without KITAS from Bali ❓
Can You Really Apply for a Schengen Visa in Bali Without a KITAS? 🛂
Many travelers staying in Bali under a tourist visa wonder if they can apply for a Schengen visa without having a KITAS (temporary stay permit) 🤔
The good news? Yes, you can! While it’s true that some embassies prefer KITAS holders, others—especially those working with VFS Global in Kuta—do allow applications from tourists.
However, the key is preparing strong, clear documents to support your temporary stay and travel plans.
Why Tourist Visa Holders Often Get Confused About Schengen Applications 😕
If you’re in Bali on a tourist visa, things can get confusing fast 😵 Some online forums say it’s not possible to apply for a Schengen visa without a KITAS, while others say the opposite.
The truth is somewhere in between. Some embassies accept tourist visa holders if you show solid proof of your plans, income, and reason for travel. But vague applications, missing documents, or suspicious bookings often lead to rejection.
How VFS Global in Kuta Helps Travelers Apply Without Residency 📍
The VFS Global visa center in Kuta handles Schengen visa applications for many embassies in Jakarta. If you’re applying without a KITAS, you’ll still need to show your valid tourist visa, passport with enough validity, proof of accommodation in Bali, and all the usual documents (flights, hotels, insurance, bank statements).
VFS does not decide your visa result—but they check that your documents are complete before forwarding them to the embassy ✅
What Documents You Must Prepare Without a KITAS 📋
When applying without a KITAS, you must be extra careful with your paperwork 🧾 Required documents usually include:
-
Valid passport (6+ months)
-
Tourist visa stamp or proof of stay in Bali
-
Proof of onward travel (flight bookings)
-
Accommodation bookings in Europe
-
Financial proof for entire trip
-
Travel insurance covering €30,000
-
Cover letter explaining your trip and current status in Bali Even though you don’t have residency in Indonesia, showing stability and clear travel intent is key 🔑
Common Mistakes Non-KITAS Holders Make When Applying in Bali ❌
Applying without a KITAS isn’t impossible, but many applicants still get denied because of avoidable mistakes 😬 Common errors include:
-
Submitting fake or unverifiable bookings
-
Failing to explain why you’re applying from Indonesia
-
Not showing ties to your home country
-
Weak financial proof Make sure your story makes sense and documents are easy to follow. Use a simple checklist to avoid forgetting anything 📑
Tips to Strengthen Your Application as a Tourist in Indonesia 💡
Here’s how to boost your application even if you’re just visiting Bali:
-
Write a clear cover letter explaining your current tourist status
-
Show return flight or next destination (not just Europe entry)
-
Include proof of your accommodation in Bali (like Airbnb receipts)
-
Use real and refundable bookings
-
Show 3–6 months of consistent income or savings
-
Include ties to your home country (job, lease, family, etc.) The more complete and believable your application, the better your chances 🎯
Which Embassies in Indonesia Accept KITAS-Free Applications 🏛️
Some embassies are more flexible with KITAS-free applicants than others 📝 As of now, the following typically accept tourist visa applications:
-
Italy
-
France
-
Spain
-
Netherlands
-
Germany (case by case) Always check the current embassy policy through VFS Global before submitting. Processing times and requirements vary, so plan early and prepare well in advance 📆
FAQs About Applying for a Schengen Visa Without KITAS from Bali ❓
-
Is it really possible to apply for a Schengen visa without a KITAS?
Yes, if you meet the documentation and eligibility requirements.
-
What if I’m just on a 60-day visa-free or B211A visa?
You can still apply as long as your visa is valid and you're staying legally in Indonesia.
-
Which embassy is best for KITAS-free applications?
France and Italy are often the most flexible, but this changes, so always check with VFS Global.
-
What’s the main risk?
Rejection due to insufficient proof of purpose, finance, or connection to your home country.
-
Can I reapply if rejected?
Yes, but it’s best to fix the reason for rejection first.
-
Do I need to translate documents into another language?
Yes, if required by the embassy (often English or French).
-
How long does the visa take to process?
Usually 10–21 business days, depending on the embassy.
-
Should I use an agent?
Optional—but if you’re unsure, a local agent in Bali can help double-check everything before submission 🧾