In international diplomacy, the term Kedutaan Besar Republik Indonesia (KBRI) or Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia plays a vital role in representing Indonesia abroad.
The Embassy of Indonesia in the United States was established in 1950, following the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the US on December 18, 1949. Since then, the embassy has served as a bridge between the two countries, strengthening cooperation and providing essential services for Indonesian citizens.
This article explains the role of KBRI, and the differences between KBRI, KJRI, and KRI especially useful for students living abroad or planning to study in the US.
What is KBRI?
Kedutaan Besar Republik Indonesia (KBRI) is the highest official diplomatic representative of the Indonesian government in a foreign country. It is led by an ambassador appointed directly by the President of the Republic of Indonesia.
The KBRI typically resides in the capital city of the host country and serves as the central hub of diplomacy activity.
Duties and Responsibilities of KBRI
KBRI’s responsibilities include:
- Representing Indonesia diplomatically and maintaining political relations with the host country
- Strengthening bilateral cooperation in areas such as economics, education, politics, culture, and defense
- Promoting Indonesian culture and encouraging foreign investment through official events and partnerships
- Protecting Indonesian citizens abroad by offering services such as; passport and visa processing, legal support and consular assistance, birth certificate registration and notarial services
- Participating in international forums and negotiations to advocate for Indonesian’s national interests
- Acting as a resource center for Indonesian students and communities abroad
What’s the Difference Between KBRI & KJRI?
Konsulat Jenderal Republik Indonesia (KJRI) is an official extention of the Indonesian government, located in major cities outside the capital that are not served directly by a KBRI.
Key Roles of KJRI
- Provide consular services such as passport issuance, visa processing, and document legalization
- Offer legal assistance and protection to Indonesian citizens
- Facilitate cultural, tourism, and trade promotion
- Strengthen local community engagement and business ties
- Host cultural and economic events to raise awareness about Indonesia
- While the KBRI handles national-level diplomatic matters, the KJRI focuses more on localized engagement and consular support
KJRI Offices in US
KJRI Chicago
Address: 211 West Wacker Drive, 8th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606
Consul: H.E Mr. Benny Bahanadewa
Website: www.indonesiachicago.org / chicago.kemlu.go.id
KJRI Houston
Address: 10900 Richmond Avenue, Houston, TX 77042
Consul: H.E. Mr. Al Busyra Basnur
Website: Houston.kemlu.go.id / www.indonesiahouston.net
KJRI Los Angeles
Address: 3457 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Consul: H.E. Mr. Hadi Martono
Website: losangeles.kemlu.go.id
KJRI New York
Address: 5 East 68th Street, New York, NY 10065
Consul: H.E. Mr. Ghafur Akbar Darma Putra
Website: newyork.kemlu.go.id
What’s the Difference Between KBRI & KRI?
Konsulat Republik Indonesia (KRI) is smaller Indonesian consular offices, often located in secondary cities or regions not covered by the KJRI.
Key Roles of KRI
- Offer basic consular services such as issuing passports, visas, and certifications
- Provide legal assistance and help in emergencies
- Maintain communication with local communities and promote Indonesia culture
- Support economic and social activities to foster cooperation
- Coordinate with KBRI and KJRI to ensure efficient national representation
- KRIs are important in maintaining access and service quality, especially in cities with growing Indonesian communities
KRI Office in US
KRI San Fransisco
Address: 111 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133
Consul: Mr. Asianto Sinambela, S.H., L.L.M
Website: www.indonesia-sanfrancisco.net / sanfrancisco.kemlu.go.id
KRI Honolulu, Hawaii
Address: 1001 Bishop Street, ASB Tower, Suite 2970, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States of America
Consul: H.E. Mr. Patrick K. Sullivan
Students planning to study or work abroad must understand which institutions provide them with support, safety, and services. Knowing the difference between KBRI, KJRI, and KRI helps students access legal and consular help when needed, stay connected with Indonesian communities abroad, participate in cultural and educational events, ensure a safe and smooth international living experience.
At Dimulti Educational Immersion Program, we prepare students for their global journey through short-term immersion program. In our program we include cultural exchange between Indonesian and international students, also visiting KBRI office.
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