Nydave wroteI really never understood the sponsor system,since 2006 my sponsor was never asked for proof of finances,simply typed me a letter in Indonesian, I have no idea what it contained,but it didn't contain proof of their financial situation,i submitted that letter with the necessary forms and withing 2 days I got my social visa,
However last year when I went for my visa they informed me that they had recently changed the rules,now I have to submit my bank statement,which makes sence,so in reality now both myself and my sponsor are responsible for me while im in Ri,because I left it so late to get my visa I ran out of time,hence I arrived on a VOA,which I could extend,[COLOR="#FF0000"]this was a much better option for me because the social is too restrictive if i plan on travelling within the country,[/COLOR]
I think that the sponsor thing should be done away with and anyone staying 30 days or more should have to show proof of sufficient funds and also proof of medical insurance to cover them while they are in the country,
Sosbuds are administered and issued by independant RI Embassies/Consuls and consequently arbitrary, depending on the local understanding of the rules. For example...Vancouver always required my sponsor's last 3 months bank statements.
I agree with nydave that proof of funds [B]and[/B] medical insurance, from the applicant, should be the criteria and place sole responsibility on the traveller. A simple letter of introduction, with a contact address, would thus only be required from Indonesia. This could be easily administered.
I don't understand why you say the Sosbud is more restrictive to travelling within RI than a VOA.
