Indonesia to Add Several Countries to Visa-Free Entry Program. Indonesia is gearing up to welcome more international travelers with a significant policy update. The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy has revealed plans to extend its visa-free entry program to citizens from 20 additional countries, aiming to enhance its tourism sector and boost economic growth.
Indonesia to Add Several Countries to Visa-Free Entry Program
Visa-free travel is set to be offered to citizens of 20 countries by Indonesian authorities. Several key tourism markets in Indonesia will be granted visa-free entry by Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy.
Expansion of Visa-Free Entry
Effective from October this year, travelers from 20 new countries will be able to visit Indonesia without the need for a visa. This move is part of a broader strategy to attract more tourists and revitalize the economy, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno announced that the selection process for the new visa-free countries is nearing completion. “The list of 20 destinations has been submitted. We are advocating for visa-free entry for tourists from countries that provide the greatest economic impact,” he stated.
Key Tourism Markets Included
The list, compiled last December, focuses on major tourism markets. Among the countries set to benefit from this policy change are Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, the UK, and the US. These nations are recognized for their significant contribution to Indonesia’s tourism industry.
A Strategic Move to Boost Tourism
The easing of entry requirements is a strategic response to the global trend of reopening borders and encouraging travel post-pandemic. Many countries are relaxing travel restrictions to stimulate tourism and support economic recovery.
Indonesia’s move aligns with this trend and is expected to attract a larger influx of international visitors. Last year, Indonesia welcomed approximately 11.7 million tourists—a figure lower than many other Southeast Asian nations. However, in the first three months of 2024 alone, about three million foreign visitors arrived in the country. The government aims to significantly increase this number, targeting 17 million by the end of the year.
Conclusion
With the upcoming addition of 20 new countries to its visa-free entry program, Indonesia is poised to enhance its appeal as a prime travel destination. This initiative reflects the country’s commitment to boosting tourism and economic growth, leveraging its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes to attract more visitors from around the world.
