🅿️ Many foreigners living or traveling in Lombok suddenly find themselves needing a criminal record certificate (SKCK)—whether it’s for a visa application, marriage process, or job requirements. But figuring out how to get one in Lombok can be confusing if you don’t speak Bahasa Indonesia or understand the local system 🌀
🅰️ Some expats assume they can walk into a police station and get the SKCK on the same day—but are surprised to learn they need multiple documents, fingerprinting, and even a sponsor letter 😵💫 Others are told they must go back to their home country, or worse, that they’re not eligible to get it at all.
🆂 Getting a SKCK in Lombok is absolutely possible—if you know the right steps.✅ You’ll need to prepare a clear set of documents (including passport copies, KITAS/visa, and sponsor letters), get fingerprints at the local police station (Polres), and sometimes translate and legalize the results depending on your purpose. It’s not hard—but it is detailed.
🆃 “I needed a criminal record check for my German visa, but had no idea how Lombok’s police process worked,” says Alex, a digital nomad from Australia. “Luckily, a local consultant helped me gather all the documents and submit them. I got it done in just 4 days!”
🅴 For example, if you’re applying for a long-stay visa or registering your marriage abroad, authorities often require a valid SKCK from Indonesia, apostilled and translated into English. Many foreigners don’t realize this until the embassy sends their application back for “missing documents” 😫
🅰️ Ready to get your SKCK done right in Lombok? 💼 This guide will walk you through each step—from fingerprinting to final pickup—so you can stay on track and avoid delays ✍️ Let’s make sure your certificate is valid, official, and ready to go!
Table of Contents
- What Is a SKCK and Why You Might Need One in Lombok 🛂
- Who Can Apply for a Criminal Record Certificate in Lombok? 👤
- What Documents Do You Need for a SKCK in Lombok? 📑
- Where to Apply for a SKCK in Lombok (Police Stations) 📍
- Step-by-Step: How to Get a SKCK in Lombok 📋
- How Long Does It Take to Process a SKCK in Lombok? ⏱️
- How Much Does It Cost to Get a SKCK in Lombok? 💵
- Do You Need Translation or Apostille for Your SKCK? 🖋️
- Real Stories: Foreigners Who Applied for SKCK in Lombok ✈️😓
- FAQs About SKCK for Foreigners in Lombok ❓
What Is a SKCK and Why You Might Need One in Lombok 🛂
A SKCK (Surat Keterangan Catatan Kepolisian) is a police-issued certificate that shows whether or not you have a criminal record in Indonesia.
Foreigners in Lombok may need it for things like visa applications, marrying an Indonesian citizen, or applying for jobs both locally and abroad. It’s often required by embassies or immigration offices to confirm your legal background while living in Indonesia.
If you’re planning to apply for a spouse KITAS, move to Europe, or get married in Indonesia, a valid SKCK from Lombok could be on your checklist.
Although many people think it’s only for Indonesians, foreigners who’ve lived in the country for more than 6 months may be asked for it too. Understanding what it is and why it’s needed is the first step to getting it done right.
Who Can Apply for a Criminal Record Certificate in Lombok? 👤
Both Indonesian citizens and foreigners can apply for a SKCK in Lombok. Foreigners will need to show they have legal status in the country, such as holding a KITAS, KITAP, social visa, or retirement visa. Some police offices might also require that you’re registered at the local immigration office.
If you’re on a tourist visa, it’s less likely you’ll qualify, but some exceptions are made—especially if you have a sponsor like a future spouse, employer, or legal agent. It’s always a good idea to check with your local Polres (police resort office) beforehand so you don’t waste time.
What Documents Do You Need for a SKCK in Lombok? 📑
Here’s a list of documents commonly required for foreigners:
Copy of your passport (photo page and latest entry stamp)
Copy of your valid visa or KITAS/KITAP
4 passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, red background)
A sponsor letter (from your spouse, landlord, employer, or agent)
A copy of your sponsor’s KTP (Indonesian ID card)
Indonesian citizens will usually need fewer documents: a KTP, family card, birth certificate, and recent photo.
Everyone must also get fingerprinted as part of the application process. If you forget a document, you might be asked to come back another day, so it’s best to be over-prepared.
Where to Apply for a SKCK in Lombok (Police Stations) 📍
You’ll need to go to the Polres (district police office) that covers the area where you live or are staying. For example:
- Polres Kota Mataram: for those in Mataram city or nearby
- Polres Lombok Barat: if you’re staying in Senggigi or Batu Layar
- Polres Lombok Tengah or Timur: for Central and East Lombok
Just ask for “Loket SKCK” (the SKCK counter) when you arrive. Most staff don’t speak fluent English, so bring a translator or local friend if possible.
Also, come early—mornings are best because government offices tend to get busy quickly.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a SKCK in Lombok 📋
- Gather all the required documents
- Go to the appropriate Polres and find the SKCK counter
- Fill out the SKCK application form (usually in Indonesian)
- Get your fingerprints taken (done in a separate room)
- Submit everything and pay the official fee
- Wait for the certificate to be processed and printed
The process usually takes 1 to 3 working days. If you’re well-prepared, it may even be ready on the same day. Make sure your photos meet the size and background color requirements—they’re strict about that!
How Long Does It Take to Process a SKCK in Lombok? ⏱️
In most cases, your SKCK will be ready within 1 to 3 business days. Sometimes, it can be issued the same day if there are no errors or delays.
However, it depends on how busy the office is and whether your documents are complete.
If you need to use your SKCK for international purposes—like applying for a European visa—you’ll also need to:
- Translate it into English with a sworn translator
- Apostille it at the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (usually done in Denpasar)
So allow an extra 5–7 days for translation and legalization if needed.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a SKCK in Lombok? 💵
The official police fee is very low—around IDR 30,000 to 50,000 (under $4 USD). But additional costs may include:
- Sworn translation: IDR 200,000–300,000
- Apostille fee and travel: up to IDR 800,000
- Agent or consultant service: varies from IDR 300,000–1 million
So, while the base fee is cheap, you might spend around IDR 1–1.5 million total if you need help with the full process. Always ask for a cost breakdown before agreeing to use an agent.
Do You Need Translation or Apostille for Your SKCK? 🖋️
If your SKCK will be used abroad (for a visa, marriage registration, etc.), you will almost always need:
- A sworn translation into English (or another required language)
- Apostille/legalization from Kemenkumham (Ministry of Law & Human Rights)
Some countries also want you to get it certified by their own embassy. Ask the receiving authority exactly what they require. Apostille services are faster in Bali than in Lombok, so many applicants choose to handle that part in Denpasar.
Real Stories: Foreigners Who Applied for SKCK in Lombok ✈️😓
Jasmine, a British woman living in Kuta, Lombok, needed a SKCK for her German spouse visa. “I thought my UK police certificate was enough,” she said, “but Germany asked for an Indonesian SKCK too.” With help from her husband and a local friend, she went to Polres Mataram. It took a couple of visits and new photos, but she received her SKCK within two days. “Translation and apostille in Denpasar added another week, but it was worth it.”
Mateo, a Spanish remote worker staying in Senggigi, shared a different experience. “I assumed I could get it in a day. I was wrong,” he laughed. “The fingerprint officer was off, so I had to come back. Then the weekend hit. It took me five days, but the staff were kind once I got everything sorted.”
FAQs About SKCK for Foreigners in Lombok ❓
-
Can tourists apply for SKCK?
Usually not, unless you have a strong sponsor letter.
-
Is online application possible?
Not in Lombok. Only available in Jakarta and major cities.
-
How long is SKCK valid?
Typically 6 months. Some embassies require one issued within the last 3 months.
-
Can I get fingerprinted in Bali but apply in Lombok?
No. Fingerprints must be taken at the same Polres where you apply.
-
Do I need to be in Lombok to apply?
Yes, SKCK applications require in-person fingerprinting and submission.
