Indonesia to Eliminate Expensive Visa-On-Arrival Fees for 20 Popular Travel Destinations

The contentious visa-on-arrival procedure, which has driven up travel expenses for visitors, particularly in Bali, is being reviewed by Indonesia. The policy, which was designed to raise money for environmentally friendly travel, might soon be abandoned for travelers from important nations.

Rethinking its visa-on-arrival policy, Indonesia is causing a stir among regular visitors, particularly in Bali. This action coincides with ongoing talks to eliminate the exorbitant visa requirements to increase travel.

Background: Visa-Free Travel

Before the COVID-19 outbreak, Australia was one of Indonesia’s biggest overseas markets, and travelers from that country could enter the country without a visa for up to 30 days. Bali, one of the most visited tourist sites in Indonesia, was greatly attracted by the entry requirement of no visa.

Current Visa-On-Arrival Requirements

Travelers from 97 countries, including well-known ones like Australia and China, are currently required to apply for an e-visa or pay for a visa in advance to enter Indonesia. The visa-on-arrival is available for IDR 500,000 (about USD 33) and is valid for 30 days, with the possibility of a 30-day one-time extension.

This policy has generated controversy ever since it was implemented, with many visitors to Bali complaining about the higher prices. The fee has increased the cost of vacations on the island, which is exacerbated by the February 2024 implementation of the IDR 150,000 per person Bali Tourism Tax Levy.

Discussions to Scrap Visa Fees

Sandiaga Uno, Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism and Creative Economies, made hints earlier this year about intentions to do away with the requirement for a visa upon arrival for the top 20 countries in terms of tourist volume. Australia, China, the UK, the USA, India, and South Korea are on this list. Although adjustments were anticipated by October 2024, no formal updates have been given.

The following 20 nations are on the suggested list for free visa entry to Indonesia:

• China (PRC)
• Australia
• South Korea
• India
• UK
• USA
• Germany
• France
• United Arab Emirates
• Qatar
• The Netherlands
• Saudi Arabia
• Russia
• Japan
• New Zealand
• Taiwan
• Spain
• Italy
• Two Unspecified Middle Eastern Countries

Obstacles and Remarks

The original goals of the visa-on-arrival policy were to deter “low-quality” travelers and to raise money for the promotion of sustainable tourism. Minister Uno has made analogies to the elite tourism model used in Bhutan, where visitors must pay more than $200 a day and adhere to stringent visiting quotas.

However, the existing visa-on-arrival charges have put Indonesia in a difficult situation. The levies, according to critics, are not as effective or exclusive as Bhutan’s model, which leads to visitor displeasure without significantly increasing the island’s tourism industry.

Thailand Raising the Standards

By extending its visa-free stay to 60 days, Thailand sets a high standard and demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to draw in more tourists. This action demonstrates Thailand’s dedication to developing visitor-friendly policies to grow its tourist sector.

The Way Ahead: Still Up for Debate

Minister Uno stated that the decision is on the President’s desk and that there is no deadline for putting it into effect. Attracting “qualified and sustainable tourist contributors” is the aim, and ethical travel is being encouraged.

Apply for the e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)

Travelers can apply online for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) in Indonesia with ease and speed thanks to a simplified process. The following is a step-by-step tutorial for e-VOA applications:

• Visit the official e-Visa website and apply no sooner than 14 days before your intended arrival.
• Fill out the form: Sign up, enter your information, and attach the required files.
• Group Applications: Ideal for families or groups, you can apply for up to five individuals at once.
• Pay and Submit: Check your details, pay the IDR 500,000 online charge, and submit.
• Receive and Print: From your email, print your e-VOA after it has been approved.

Use the live chat option or follow Indonesia’s Immigration Department on Instagram to get assistance. A one-time extension for an additional 30 days is permitted throughout the 30-day validity period of the e-VOA.

Final Thoughts

Rethinking its visa-on-arrival policy, Indonesia hopes to increase its attractiveness as a premier travel destination. The nation intends to draw in more discerning tourists and raise its standing in the world tourism rankings by maybe doing away with visa requirements.