Get to Know the Different Types of Indonesian Passports by Color: Different Colors, Different Functions

A passport is an essential document that allows individuals to travel internationally. In Indonesia, there is not just one type of passport—there are several, distinguished by the color of their covers. Each color represents a different type of passport, with its own specific function.

Indonesian passports are generally divided into three types based on their cover color: the Ordinary Passport (green cover), the Service Passport (blue cover), and the Diplomatic Passport (black cover).

Ordinary Passport (Green Cover)

The most commonly seen Indonesian passport is the one with a green cover. This is the ordinary passport issued to Indonesian citizens who intend to travel internationally for tourism, business, or other personal purposes.

This type of passport can be used to enter most countries but does not offer the same privileges as diplomatic or service passports. The validity period of an ordinary passport is generally between 5 to 10 years.

Service Passport (Blue Cover)

Also known as the “Blue Passport,” this type is issued to civil servants, certain state officials, or Indonesian citizens assigned to official government duties abroad that are non-diplomatic in nature.

Holders of this passport are typically granted certain travel privileges for duties related to government work. The validity of a service passport is adjusted to the duration of the official assignment but does not exceed 5 years from the date of issuance.

Applications for a service passport must be submitted to the Minister of Foreign Affairs or an authorized official, usually through the applicant’s government institution or the proposing agency.

Diplomatic Passport (Black Cover)

As the name suggests, a diplomatic passport is issued to Indonesian citizens who have diplomatic status. This includes ambassadors, consuls general, and other representatives stationed abroad to manage diplomatic relations, negotiations, and international affairs.

Like the service passport, diplomatic passport holders are entitled to various privileges such as visa exemptions in some countries. The issuance of this passport is regulated directly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and involves strict procedures due to its sensitive nature.

The standard validity period for a diplomatic passport is 5 years, although it may be adjusted according to the duration of the diplomatic assignment or relevant government regulations.

While regular citizens can only hold the green ordinary passport, understanding the other types is still useful. Choosing the right passport according to your status and travel purpose can greatly simplify international travel procedures.

Always make sure to review the latest requirements and conditions before applying for a passport, so your journey can go smoothly and meet all the necessary needs.

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