Indonesia has recently made significant strides in enhancing its tourism and economic appeal by implementing new visa regulations under Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024. This regulation allows visa-free entry for citizens of 13 countries, offering tourists an opportunity to visit Indonesia for up to 30 days without requiring a visa. The countries benefiting from this policy include Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and several non-ASEAN nations such as Hong Kong, Suriname, and Colombia.
Key Features of the New Policy:
The visa-free entry is designed to attract international tourists and boost Indonesia’s tourism sector, which has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Travelers can enter through designated immigration checkpoints without a visa but must adhere to the 30-day limit. The visa-free status is non-extendable and cannot be converted into other visa types, ensuring streamlined immigration processes while promoting short-term tourism.
Expanding the Program to Other Countries:
In addition to the 13 nations already benefiting, Indonesia is aiming to expand its visa-free program to 20 more countries, including economic giants like Australia, China, and India. By doing so, Indonesia seeks to attract more visitors and reach its ambitious target of welcoming 17 million international tourists by the end of 2024.
The country’s efforts to revitalize tourism are part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic growth through increased foreign arrivals and investment. As tourism continues to recover from the pandemic’s disruptions, policies like this are vital to boosting international interest in Indonesia.
Periodic Reviews of Visa-Free Status:
The new visa policy will be subject to review every six months, allowing the government to assess its effectiveness and consider potential adjustments. This flexibility ensures that the visa policy remains aligned with Indonesia’s economic and tourism goals, while also considering security and immigration control measures.
This policy reflects Indonesia’s commitment to becoming a global tourism hub, making it easier for tourists to experience the country’s rich culture, landscapes, and heritage without the hassle of visa applications. As the program grows, Indonesia hopes to see significant gains in tourism revenues, helping the nation recover and thrive post-pandemic.
For travelers from countries not included in the visa-free program, traditional visa application processes, such as Visa on Arrival (VoA) or online e-visa applications, remain in effect.
Conclusion:
With Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024, Indonesia is stepping into a new era of tourism. The introduction of visa-free entry for certain nations, coupled with plans for further expansion, highlights the country’s strategic efforts to rebuild and strengthen its tourism sector. This move not only simplifies travel but also positions Indonesia as a competitive destination for international visitors looking to explore its diverse attractions.
