In a strategic move to bolster its standing as a premier global tourist destination, Indonesia, the
largest economy in Southeast Asia, has unveiled a groundbreaking change in its visa policy.
Effective December 20, the country introduced a five-year visa policy, allowing visitors to stay
for a maximum of 60 days, a significant departure from the conventional 30-day single-entry
tourist visa.
Online Application and Payment Convenience
A notable aspect of this policy is the facilitation of online applications, coupled with the
convenience of credit card payments. This streamlined entry process is poised to make Indonesia
more accessible to foreigners. Immigration Chief Silmy Karim highlighted that the extended
duration and multiple entries are integral components of the government's holistic efforts to
stimulate economic growth.
Competing Effectively in the Global Tourism Arena
Indonesia's decision to extend visa durations aligns with its ambitions to compete more
effectively with neighboring tourist destinations. The previous 30-day tourist visa, extendable by
an additional 30 days, posed limitations for those seeking prolonged stays or multiple entries.
The new policy not only caters to these preferences but also aims to make Indonesia a more
attractive option for international tourists.
Ambitious Targets Amidst Tough Competition
As of December 8, Indonesia had already welcomed nearly 10 million foreign tourists,
surpassing the initial target of 8.5 million for the year. Despite this accomplishment, Indonesia
still trails behind neighboring nations such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam in overall tourist
arrivals. To address this gap, the country has set an ambitious target of attracting 40 million
foreign tourists by 2025.
In the fiercely competitive landscape of global tourism, neighboring countries are actively
revising their visa policies to attract visitors, especially from emerging markets like China and
India. By offering more flexibility and easing entry requirements, these nations aim to position
themselves as prime destinations for international travelers.
Therefore, Indonesia's recent visa policy signifies a bold step toward fostering economic growth
through tourism. By extending visa durations and facilitating online applications, the country
aims to position itself as a more accessible and attractive destination on the global tourism map,
competing head-to-head with its regional counterparts.
source-(https://luminarytimes.com/indonesias-tourism-boost-a-paradigm-shift-in-visa-policy/)(https://luminarytimes.com)