There are only 12 countries whose citizens are exempt from acquiring visas for purposes of tourism, socio-cultural exchange, exhibition and business. These countries are mostly Southeast Asian neighbors and regions with special diplomatic relations. The following countries given Free Visa for Short Visit are the following:
- Brunei Darussalam
- Chile
- Ecuador
- Hong Kong SAR
- Macao SAR
- Malaysia
- Morocco
- Philippines
- Peru
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Vietnam
Citizens of visa-exempt countries can stay in Indonesia for up to 30 days although they are not allowed to extend their visits beyond the validity period. All other countries not allowed for visa-free travel are required to apply for visas beforehand or upon arrival. A Visa on Arrival (VOA) can be obtained on both air and sea ports of entry.
In favor of visa-required visitors, they can apply for an extension of stay for up to 30 days on top of the initial 30 day validity, and they should express this intention upon landing in Indonesia. Both VOA and extension of stay can be processed at the ports of entry. There are 64 countries and one region that are allowed for VOA. All other countries not allowed for visa-exemption or VOA are required to apply for visa beforehand in Indonesian consulates and embassies.
Upon arrival, visitors are required to have in their persons the following travel documents to be allowed entry.
- A passport with expiration date of at least six months from the date of entry;
- Round-trip airplane tickets or proof of onward travel.
Visa-exempt travelers and VOA holders are not allowed to convert their entry permits to other immigration permits like work or visitation. They would have to apply for these specific visas in their countries of origin or in the nearest Indonesian consul or embassy outside of Indonesia
Visit Visas for purposes of tourism, business and social and cultural exchange (or visits to family) can be acquired beforehand either in person or through registered mail. The validity period of Visit Visa is up to 60 days.
On top of these entry requirements, there are additional permits needed to secure beforehand when entering certain restricted regions in Indonesia. These are Poso, Irian Jaya and West Papua. Travelers who wish to enter these tourist-presence regulated zones need to have special written permission and approval from Indonesian authorities. Getting caught crossing over into these prohibited areas may result to detention, arrest and prosecution according to Indonesian law.
