On August 29, 2024, President Joko Widodo officially introduced a new regulation aimed at boosting tourism and diplomatic relations. The newly enacted Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024 offers visa-free visit to 13 selected countries, marking a significant move to invigorate Indonesia’s tourism sector. So, which countries will benefit from this new visa waiver?

Indonesia, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, relies heavily on tourism as a key economic driver. With this visa-free policy, the government aims to attract more visitors from the designated countries, thereby increasing tourism spending and positively impacting the local economy.

The rise in international visitor numbers is expected to benefit not only the tourism sector but also have a ripple effect on related industries such as transportation, hospitality, and gastronomy. The influx of foreign tourists will likely create more job opportunities for locals and boost regional revenue from tourism.

The visa-free policy was implemented with careful consideration of reciprocity, security, and the benefits for tourism, the economy, and investment, as determined by the President.

New Visa-Free Visit Policy Unveiled

President Joko Widodo has issued Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024, which provides visa-free entry to several countries, including Brunei Darussalam and Hong Kong. This regulation was enacted and published on August 29, 2024.

According to Article 2 of the regulation, visa-free access applies to specific foreign nationals, special administrative regions, and certain entities or visa holders from designated countries.

“Those eligible for visa-free entry as outlined in Article 2(1) are exempt from the requirement to obtain a visa to enter Indonesia,” states Article 2(2), as reported on Monday, September 2, 2024.

The visa-free policy considers principles of reciprocity, mutual benefit, security, and other aspects as set forth by the President.

Under the new regulation, visitors are granted a visa-free stay for up to 30 days, with no option for extension or change of visa status.

List of 13 Visa-Free Visit Countries

The new visa-free facility applies to a select group of 13 countries, determined based on strategic considerations. The policy also ensures that reciprocity and mutual benefits are observed, as well as factors related to security, tourism, and investment.

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The list of countries benefiting from visa-free access includes:

• Brunei Darussalam
• Philippines
• Cambodia
• Laos
• Malaysia
• Myanmar
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Timor-Leste
• Suriname
• Colombia
• Hong Kong

Additionally, visa-free access is extended to certain visa holders from Singapore.

Reactions to the New Policy

The Immigration Office Class II Non-TPI Banggai has confirmed its readiness to implement the new policy, aimed at facilitating easier visits for citizens from the designated countries.

According to Kompasiana, Hermansyah Siregar, Head of the Central Sulawesi Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, supports the implementation of this regulation. “We at the Central Sulawesi Regional Office strongly support the visa-free policy as it will positively impact the flow of tourists and foreign businesspeople, ultimately contributing to local and national economic growth,” Siregar said.

He emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation to ensure the successful execution of the policy. “We will coordinate with relevant parties to ensure security and smooth operations at entry points and to maintain service standards,” he added.

The introduction of Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024 is a strategic step by the Indonesian government. This visa-free policy is expected to not only increase international tourist arrivals but also strengthen diplomatic relations with friendly nations. With effective implementation, this policy aims to significantly benefit Indonesia’s tourism and economic development.

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