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Form Guide

MERP - Multiple Entry Re-entry Permit Application

Reviewed by Eric Provencio, Founder of VisaMind·Last updated Mar 2, 2026

Guide generated from official sources when available. Always confirm requirements on the authority’s official site.

The Multiple Entry Re-entry Permit Application (MERP) is overseen by the Directorate General of Immigration, part of the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections.

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Quick answers

What forms are filed with MERP?
May be used in connection with: KITAS-APPLICATION, KITAP-APPLICATION.
What mistakes cause MERP rejection?
Common issues: wrong eligibility category, traveling before approval, missing proof of status or pending application, or passport-style photos not meeting specifications.
What documents do I need for MERP?
You'll need: the current edition of merp, current immigration status or pending application, travel plans and intention to return. Review the instructions for complete requirements.
What does MERP do?
MERP requests advance permission to travel internationally while maintaining your immigration status or pending application.
How long does MERP take to process?
Most MERP cases are processed in 5–24 months depending on category (Ditjen Imigrasi) (as of February 2026). e-Visa / e-VOA: 3 to 5 days. Check your category at the official processing times tool.
Does filing MERP grant work authorization or lawful status?
No. Filing MERP does not by itself grant work authorization or lawful status. If approved, Ditjen Imigrasi may issue a travel document, depending on your requested document type. If approved, Ditjen Imigrasi may update your status conditions and issue updated evidence of your status, depending on what you requested.

Quick summary

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Who fills it

Applicants with valid status who need a travel document to travel internationally and return to Indonesia use this form, as described in the Form IMTA guide, as described in the Form RPTKA guide.

When used

Before traveling internationally while your case is pending

Where it goes next

Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.

What it must match

Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations

Overview (What is Form MERP?)

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While the application process may seem daunting, it ultimately provides significant benefits for those who need to travel frequently while maintaining their residence in Indonesia, as described in the Form E-VISA APPLICATION guide.

First page of MERP form

First page of MERP form

Source: MERP online portal

Context and workflow

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Processing times for MERP differ by location. Always consult the official Ditjen Imigrasi processing time tool for the most current information, as noted in the Indonesia Retirement Guide.

Why this matters

  • Small mismatches inside MERP (or between MERP and supporting evidence) can force rework later in processing.
  • This form acts as a cross-check point: details here must match other forms and supporting documents.

Where it fits in the workflow

  • Application receipt
  • Provide biometrics at Immigration office
  • Validity period of the permit

Who uses it

This form is intended for applicants with valid status who require a travel document to leave and re-enter Indonesia.

When it is used

  • Before traveling internationally while your case is pending
  • When you need advance permission to return to the country
  • If you may need to travel but want to maintain your pending application

Failure prevention (What causes Form MERP rejections?)

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Technical rejections

  • Ensure form is current edition.

Substantive weaknesses

  • Insufficient travel justification
  • Lack of supporting documents
  • Underlying case is still pending or status is valid

What you need (What do you need for Form MERP?)

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  • The current edition of MERP
  • Proof of current immigration status or pending application
  • Evidence of travel plans and intention to return
  • Passport-style photographs meeting specifications
  • Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence.

Checklist (What is the Form MERP checklist?)

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  • Access the latest Multiple Entry Re-entry Permit Application (MERP) form and accompanying instructions directly from the official Ditjen Imigrasi website.
  • Review the official MERP instructions before filing
  • Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
  • Complete all required sections of MERP
  • Sign, date, and submit MERP with all required supporting evidence

Sources for this section

MERP Instructions

Processing times

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CategoryProcessing time
e-Visa / e-VOA3 to 5 daysas of February 2026
  • Processing time for MERP under "e-Visa / e-VOA": 3 to 5 days (as of February 2026).
  • Processing times for MERP vary by category and processing location. Verify current processing times with the issuing authority.
  • Processing times differ significantly by eligibility category. Initial applications, renewals, and replacements each go through different adjudication queues, and some categories consistently take longer than others.
  • Processing times for this form vary by Ditjen Imigrasi office and current workload. Verify current processing times with Ditjen Imigrasi.
  • While pending: track your case status using your application reference number, respond promptly to any requests for additional documents, and update your contact information with Ditjen Imigrasi if it changes.

Where to file

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Submit your application at the designated Ditjen Imigrasi office, embassy, or consulate. Check the official website for the location with jurisdiction over your place of residence.

Submit application

Submit your application at the Ditjen Imigrasi office or designated embassy/consulate in your country of residence. Check the official instructions for the correct location.

Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official Ditjen Imigrasi website before submitting. For related guidance, see Permanent Stay Permit Application.

Official MERP page

Fees

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ComponentAmount
Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form merp. Check the current fee on the official DGIM fee schedule.See official schedule
Biometrics Services FeeA biometrics fee may be required depending on your category. Check the official fee schedule.See official schedule

Can the Form MERP fee be waived?

Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.

What happens if I submit the wrong fee?

Ditjen Imigrasi will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.

Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see Limited Stay Permit Application.

Fees change; always verify on Ditjen Imigrasi.

Strategy tips

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Strategy: Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays

Examples (What are examples for Form MERP?)

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  • Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
  • Common weakness: Applicant submits the form without a complete travel itinerary, causing delays.
  • Scenario: A software engineer submitted their petition with all supporting documents The case was approved within the standard timeline Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays
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Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form MERP?)

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  • Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
  • Approval does not guarantee re-entry to the country
  • Travel while a case is pending may have consequences depending on your situation
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Edge cases and variations

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  • If you are asked to submit or update MERP, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.

Scenarios

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A software engineer submitted their petition with all supporting documents

The case was approved within the standard timeline

Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays

Key differentiators

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  • Unlike Form KITAS APPLICATION: Limited Stay Permit Application: Next step after approval: MERP for KITAS holders who travel (Multiple pathway)
  • Unlike Form KITAP APPLICATION: Permanent Stay Permit Application: Next step after approval: MERP for KITAP holders who travel (Multiple pathway)

Next steps

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  • Application receipt
  • Provide biometrics at Immigration office
  • Permit issuance
  • Travel with the permit
  • Renewal or extension if needed

Verification

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This guide is based on official Ditjen Imigrasi instructions for MERP and is updated with any changes in form editions or filing rules. Always confirm current requirements on the official Ditjen Imigrasi website.

Visual references

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Example Advance Parole Document

Example Advance Parole Document

FAQs

Why does Ditjen Imigrasi need the information requested on MERP?

Applicants filing with Ditjen Imigrasi should utilize this form. It is essential to consult the official MERP instructions to obtain comprehensive guidance tailored to your specific immigration case and circumstances.

What other forms are typically filed together with MERP?

Review the official MERP instructions for your specific situation. The specific forms required vary by case type. Review the instructions for your particular immigration category to determine which forms must be submitted together.

Can I travel while my MERP is pending?

Review the official MERP instructions for guidance specific to your immigration category and circumstances. Review the official MERP instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.

Do I need to provide a mailing address for MERP?

You need a reliable mailing address for notices and card delivery. If you do not have a stable address, Ditjen Imigrasi allows alternatives (e.g., a representative's address or safe mailing options) per official rules — review the instructions for your situation.

What happens after I submit MERP?

After submitting MERP, Ditjen Imigrasi will issue a Confirmation of receipt confirming acceptance. You may then be scheduled for biometrics, an interview, or additional evidence requests depending on your case. You can monitor your case status online using the receipt number from your notice.

What are common reasons MERP gets rejected?

Common reasons MERP is rejected include missing or incorrect signatures, using an outdated form edition, incomplete required fields, incorrect fee payment, missing required supporting documents, and photographs that do not meet official specifications. Carefully review the instructions and checklist before submitting.

Important

VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.

Next steps

Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. Use Find My Visa to get a personalized checklist with official sources and deadlines.

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