Indonesia Introduces Free-Entry Visas for Indian Tourists and 19 Other Nations to Boost Tourism

Following Thailand's lead, Indonesia is set to introduce free-entry visas for tourists from 20 countries, including India. This significant change aims to boost Indonesia's tourism sector and, ultimately, its economy.

Once implemented, Indian tourists, along with those from 19 other nations, can visit Indonesia with a free entry visa. This initiative is part of Indonesia’s broader efforts to enhance its tourism industry and stimulate economic growth. The Indonesian government plans to finalize this policy by October 2024, as announced by Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno.

Minister Uno stated that relaxing the visa-free policy is expected to increase international visitor arrivals, which will have a positive economic impact. The goals of this initiative include encouraging investment, boosting domestic consumption, and supporting the growth of the digital economy.

The 20 countries eligible for free-entry visas are:

- Australia

- China (PRC)

- India

- South Korea

- USA

- UK

- France

- Germany

- Qatar

- United Arab Emirates

- Saudi Arabia

- The Netherlands

- Japan

- Russia

- Taiwan

- New Zealand

- Italy

- Spain

- Two unspecified Middle Eastern countries

In addition, ASEAN member nations that currently qualify for visa-free entry to Indonesia include Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Before this policy change, Indian tourists had to pay around Rs. 1,33,601 per person for a visa to Indonesia post-COVID-19, compared to Rs. 75,151 per person before the pandemic.

Tourist Visa Options in Indonesia

*Type B1:*

- Duration: 30 days

- Extension: Up to 30 days possible

- Fee: Rp500,000 (Rs 2,557)

- Permitted Activities: Tourism, visiting friends or family, attending meetings, conventions, exhibitions, yachting

- Requirements: Valid passport (minimum 6 months of validity), an outbound ticket from Indonesia

*Type D1 (1 year):*

- Duration: 60 days per entry

- Fee: IDR 3,000,000 or Rs 15,344 (for one year)

- Permitted Activities: Meetings, conventions, tourism, visiting friends or family

- Requirements: Valid passport (minimum 6 months of validity), proof of living expenses, a recent color photograph, and supporting documents

*Type D1 (2 years):*

- Duration: 60 days per entry

- Fee: IDR 6,000,000 or Rs 30,689 (for two years)

- Permitted Activities: Same as Type D1 (1 year)

- Requirements: Same as Type D1 (1 year)

*Type D1 (5 years):*

- Duration: 60 days per entry

- Fee: IDR 15,000,000 or Rs 76,723 (for five years)

- Permitted Activities: Same as Type D1 (1 year)

- Requirements: Same as Type D1 (1 year)

With the new visa policy, Indonesia anticipates a surge in tourists starting this October, particularly from India. Given India's longstanding preference for Indonesia as a vacation destination, now is an ideal time to visit if it's on your bucket list.

Learn More :https://visadone.com/news/free-entry-visas-for-indian-by-indonesia-government/