Indonesia Grants Emergency Stay Permits, Waives Overstay Fees After Anak Krakatau Eruption Disrupts Flights

Indonesia's Immigration Directorate General has introduced Emergency Stay Permits (ITKT) for foreign travelers affected by flight cancellations and diversions following the September 6 eruption of Anak Krakatau volcano. The permit allows affected foreigners to remain legally in Indonesia while their flights are disrupted, and overstay fees are being waived for those whose stays are extended as a result.

Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko said the policy aims to provide legal certainty for passengers facing difficulties due to the disruptions, and noted the measure is not limited to this eruption but could apply to other force majeure situations affecting international travelers.

Between September 5-7, a total of 528 flights were affected—254 canceled arrivals and 266 canceled departures—impacting 86,760 passengers. While the disruption is centered on Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, one Emergency Stay Permit application has also been processed at Bali's Ngurah Rai immigration office.

As of September 7, the Soekarno-Hatta Immigration Office had processed 26 ITKT applications and added an extra counter, bringing the total to two. Other offices processing applications include Central Jakarta (5), North Jakarta (4), Depok and South Jakarta (2 each), and one each at Ngurah Rai, Juanda, Bekasi, and Tangerang.

The permit can be issued for up to 30 days by the immigration office overseeing the traveler's intended departure airport, and can be extended under applicable regulations. Applicants need only submit an official letter or declaration from the airline, airport authority, or civil aviation authority, along with their travel document and relevant visa or residence permit.