Indonesia’s Tourism Revival: Visa-on-Arrival for 60 Countries

The Indonesian government added 17 more countries to their Visa-on-Arrival for Tourism (VKSKKW) list. Previously at 43, the VKSKKW’s list had 60 countries with citizens eligible for the VoA. Foreign nationals across 60 countries can now enter Indonesia via nine airports, four border crossings and 11 seaports. Directorate General of Immigration circular IMI-0584.GR.01.01/2022 stipulates these entry points for sustainable tourism.

On 28th April, a new policy occurred, which renders the Directorate General of Immigration circular IMI-0549.GR.01.01/202. The aforementioned circular letter dated 5th April is now revoked and considered invalid. According to Achmad Nur Saleh, the Immigration Directorate General public relations sub coordinator, the amount of Immigration Border Control (TPI) with Visa on Arrival services has increased. There is no new addition to the Visa Exemption for Tourism (BVKKW) list.

Apart from that, the list also has Zainuddin Abdul Majid International Airport in West Nusa Tenggara, Hang Nadim International Airport in Riau, Benoa Port in Bali; Dumai Port in Pekanbaru, and Tanjung Balai Karimun Port in Riau. In order to obtain BVKKW or VKSKKW, foreign nationals must show their valid passport. Besides a valid passport, they can show a return or transfer flight ticket to another country, Visa on Arrival proof of payment. They can also show proof of insurance for their duration of stay.

Government Regulation No. 28/2019 stipulates that the fee for VoA is Rp 500,000. The renewal fee for VoA is also Rp 500,000. One can extend the stay permit (from VoA) for 30 days. The extension can be done at the nearest immigration office from the foreign national’s residence area. Foreign nationals should also keep in mind that stay permits originating from Visa on Arrival or Visa Exemption cannot be exchanged with other stay permits. Also, visa holders cannot apply for an onshore visa as well.

The tourist sector must obey the immigration regulations. Hotel owners and those in charge must comply and provide foreign guests’ information to facilitate their supervision.

If the foreign nationals misuse their stay permits, violate health protocols or disrupt public order, they will be subjected to sanctions accordingly to the applicable laws and regulations. Foreign nationals can use the BVKKW and VKSKKW for tourism. As for VKSKKW, foreign nationals must attach an invitation letter and relevant documents.