Indonesia has announced a new visa-free entry policy for foreigners holding Singapore permanent residency (PR) to visit Batam, Bintan, and the Karimun Islands.
Under this new rule, Singapore PR holders can stay up to four days in these parts of the country, providing a more streamlined process, VisaGuide.World reports.
As the authorities have explained, this initiative is part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to enhance the economic appeal of its regional zones, including Nongsa Digital Park and Bintan Resort, which are key hubs for tourism and the digital economy.
With around 545,000 permanent residents, Singapore stands to gain significantly from this new visa-free entry policy. Due to its proximity to Indonesia, particularly Batam and Bintan, this initiative will likely attract a broad range of Singapore PR holders looking for quick leisure trips or business opportunities.
Moreover, this new ability to travel without a visa for up to four days facilitates spontaneous weekend getaways, making these Indonesian islands more appealing to Singaporean travelers. At the same time, changes further represent a significant advancement for the travel sector. Batam and Bintan, renowned for their resorts, beaches, and robust tourist infrastructure, are already favourites among Singaporeans.
By implementing this visa-free entry, Indonesia is enhancing the ease with which travelers can plan short-term trips, potentially leading to a significant uptick in tourist traffic. This will benefit local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Additionally, the policy aims to attract leisure travelers, professionals, and investors interested in the region’s expanding digital economy hubs, such as Nongsa Digital Park in Batam.
Indonesia Announces Visa-Free Travel for Citizens of 13 Countries
The Indonesian government recently announced this visa-free travel policy for citizens of 13 countries, as detailed in Presidential Regulation (Perpres) on August 29, 2024. This regulation exempts these countries, termed “Visa-Free Visit Subjects,” from the requirement to obtain a visit visa for entry into Indonesia. The list includes these destinations below:
- Brunei Darussalam
- The Philippines
- Cambodia
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Timor Leste
- Suriname
- Colombia
- Hong Kong
Moreover, last year, Indonesia introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa for visitors and business visitors. This decision allowed holders to stay in Indonesia for up to 60 days at a time. While holding this visa, individuals can explore various regions of the country and visit family and friends residing in Indonesia.