Visa-Free Entry Regulation – Great news for Permanent Residents of Singapore and 13 other countries! They can now enter Indonesia, specifically the Riau Islands, without the need for a visa. This visa exemption aims to facilitate the arrival of international tourists, potentially boosting both the tourism and creative economy sectors in Indonesia. But what are the specific requirements?

This new policy, outlined in Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024 regarding Visa-Free Visits, was enacted by President Joko Widodo on August 29, 2024. The initiative is expected to increase the flow of foreign tourists eager to explore various destinations in the Riau Islands, including the popular tourist spots of Batam and Bintan.

Visa-Free Entry to the Riau Islands

The Riau Islands serve as Indonesia’s gateway for travelers from Singapore and Malaysia, two neighboring countries just about an hour away by ferry. Implementing a visa-free entry for 13 countries, including Singapore, is designed to enhance the local economy by boosting tourism and supporting small businesses related to it.

Additionally, this policy is part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to attract global investment and tourism, as well as to expand diplomatic relations by making it easier for certain nationalities to visit.

Menteri Pariwisata Widiyanti Putri elaborated on priority work programs slated for the next six months in the Riau Islands. These initiatives include gathering stakeholder input for tourism transformation and advancing the Tourism 5.0 concept, which involves digital marketing through a Calendar of Events and AI travel assistance.

Read also: National Geographic Releases Best of The World 2025, This Indonesian Destination Ranks 4th!

The minister also mentioned developing a grand strategy using the Indonesia Quality Tourism Fund to diversify national attractions and collaborating with world-class organizations to foster knowledge transfer, aiming to establish a premier tourism school.

According to Surya Wijaya, Chairman of Aspabri Kepri, increasing tourist numbers in the Riau Islands is a positive trend. “Foreign tourists visiting Batam or Kepri do not stay for long. Thus, we must capitalize on these fleeting opportunities to boost the local economy through tourism,” he explained.

He compared Batam to Johor, noting that Singaporeans constitute a significant market for both areas. “Johor understands that tourists won’t linger for long, so they make access as easy as possible to encourage spending. Kepri should adopt a similar approach,” Surya asserted.

Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Entry

As part of the policy referenced in Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024 regarding Visa-Free Visits, several countries can now enter Indonesia without a visa. Permanent Residents of Singapore, along with tourists from ten ASEAN nations, Hong Kong, Colombia, and Suriname, can visit the Riau Islands for up to four days visa-free.

“This latest regulation grants access to 13 countries, along with specific permanent residents from Singapore,” stated Anggit Suhandono, Director of Immigration Traffic, during The Final Episode of Weekly Brief with Sandi Uno online on October 14, 2024.

Regarding Singapore’s special permanent residence status, he noted that visa-free entry is granted due to their accreditation by the Singapore government, eliminating the need for further verification.

Read also: Indonesia’s Investment Sector in the Hands of New President Prabowo Subianto

For Permanent Residents of Singapore, travelers must possess a Permanent Residence status or hold a blue National Registration Identity Card (NRIC) and not a Calling Visa.

“They are not allowed to leave the Riau Islands, so entry and exit must occur through the same region. Applications can be made either manually or electronically,” Anggit clarified.

If tourists wish to depart the Riau Islands, their presence is automatically detected by the immigration system. Those who want to visit other Indonesian destinations must return to Singapore first to present a visit visa or Visa on Arrival (VoA), as staying is only permitted in Kepri.

It’s important to note that this visa exemption applies solely within the Riau Islands, is valid for four days upon arrival, and cannot be extended or converted.

Entry Ports for Visa-Free Travel

The announcement also clarified that Permanent Residents of Singapore can benefit from visa-free access to Indonesia. However, this privilege is only valid if entering and exiting through one of the eight designated immigration ports in the Riau Islands: Nongsa Terminal Ferry Bahari, Marina Teluk Senimba, Batam Centre, Citra Tri Tunas, Sekupang, Sri Bintan Pura, Bandar Bintan Telani Lagoi, and Tanjung Balai Karimun.

The visa-free visit policy is anticipated to have a positive impact on the Riau Islands by increasing tourist visits, promoting economic growth, boosting investments, and reinforcing the region’s status as a border tourism destination.

If you’re a foreign national looking to take advantage of this visa-free opportunity or seeking to develop a business in Indonesia, Bizindo is here to assist you. We provide services for managing residence permits such as KITAS, visas, and various other permits to ensure your stay in Indonesia is comfortable and compliant with applicable regulations. Bizindo has extensive experience in supporting expatriates and foreign investors, helping you establish a business that meets your needs. Contact us today!