INDONESIAN VISA – In a concerted effort to attract more foreign investors and tourists, Indonesia has embarked on initiatives to streamline the visa application process. Among the latest endeavors is the launch of an online-based visa application service catering to both tourism and pre-investment purposes.
The newly introduced service, accessible through the Foreigners’ Traffic Module (Molina) website at molina.imigrasi.go.id, is spearheaded by the Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkumham).
This service aims to address the needs of foreign investors intending to explore potential investment opportunities in Indonesia and high-end tourists seeking to experience the country’s diverse attractions.
Silmy Karim, the Director General of Immigration, highlighted that the Molina website enables foreigners to apply for Tourist and Pre-Investment Visit Visas, as well as extend their Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) online.
By offering this online platform, foreign nationals planning to visit Indonesia for leisure or investment purposes can now obtain a visit visa without the need for a guarantor or sponsor. The introduction of this service on January 26, 2023, is expected to catalyze growth in both the tourism and investment sectors.
This streamlined visa application process eliminates the need for foreign tourists holding e-VOAs to physically visit immigration offices to extend their visas. With the entire application process accessible via mobile phones with internet connectivity, foreign tourists can now enjoy a hassle-free experience during their vacations in Indonesia.
“Immigration endeavors to provide convenience for global businessmen and investors to conduct thorough assessments of potential investments before committing their capital to Indonesia,” emphasized Silmy.
Indonesian Visa Application Process through Molina
The process of applying for tourist visit visas, pre-investment visit visas, and e-VoAs through the Molina website follows a straightforward process:
- Prepare a passport biodata page photo (JPG / JPEG / PNG), passport-sized photo (JPG / JPEG / PNG), and Visa / Mastercard / JCB logo debit / credit card;
- Register an account on the Molina website.
- Log in and complete the visa application form.
- Proceed to the payment page and make the required payment.
- Payment can be made with Visa, Mastercard, or JCB logo credit or debit cards. The card used for payment does not have to be in the applicant’s name, as long as it is valid and has a 3D secure system for international transactions;
- Upon completion of the application and payment, the applicant will receive the electronic visa document via email.
In urgent situations where immediate visits are necessary, such as unforeseen business meetings, foreigners can still opt for manual visa on arrival applications at designated booths in airports and seaports.
Indonesian Visa Fees and Regulations
The fees for Indonesian visas vary depending on the type and duration of the visit. For instance, the pre-investment visit visa, valid for 180 days, incurs a Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) fee of IDR 6 million.
In contrast, tourist visit visas for up to 60 days cost IDR 1,500,000, while visit visas for purposes other than tourism are priced at IDR 2,000,000 for the same duration. Additionally, a new category of visit visa for up to 180 days is available for IDR 6,000,000, while the fee for a visa on arrival is IDR 500,000. Applicants can apply for these visas online through the Molina website without the need for a local guarantor or sponsor.
The introduction of these streamlined visa services reflects the government’s commitment to improving accessibility and enhancing the overall experience for foreign visitors. Silmy emphasized that such initiatives align with the government’s agenda for digitalizing public services and promoting Indonesia as an attractive destination for business and tourism.
Looking ahead, the Directorate General of Immigration aims to further refine its services, leveraging data-driven insights and digital technologies to meet the evolving needs of travelers and investors. Through continuous innovation and collaboration, Indonesia seeks to strengthen its position as a global hub for investment and tourism.
Furthermore, the government is actively exploring additional measures to bolster its tourism and investment sectors. Plans are underway to enhance infrastructure, promote sustainable development, and expand marketing efforts to attract a more diverse range of visitors and investors to Indonesia’s shores.
By fostering an environment conducive to tourism and investment, Indonesia aims to not only stimulate economic growth but also create employment opportunities and improve the livelihoods of its citizens. Through inclusive and sustainable development strategies, the country seeks to harness the full potential of its natural and cultural assets while preserving its unique heritage for future generations.
In conclusion, Indonesia’s efforts to simplify access for foreign investors and tourists reflect its commitment to fostering a vibrant and resilient economy. By embracing digitalization and innovation, the country is poised to capitalize on its rich diversity and attract global interest in its tourism and investment opportunities.