Citizenship and visas for expats

Citizenship and visas for expats

I am an Australian male married to an Indonesian woman. This
year I was out of work for six months while my company was
negotiating contracts in Indonesia. I stayed in Indonesia with my
wife under a social visa.

I had to report to immigration every month, which was a
stressful experience, as every time I reported to them they
changed rules and made extra demands of me. As an expatriate, I
bring money to the country and experience from my employment that
can benefit Indonesia.

I turn 55 on my next birthday and when I retire we wish to
live in Indonesia. However, neither my wife or me are looking
forward to the hassles we will face dealing with visas for myself
and our children.

We hope the new President is sincere about changing the
policies for people who wish to live in Indonesia. The cost of
the visa is not the issue, but the red tape.

BARRY LYON
Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara