Indonesia has expanded its Free Visa to Indonesia framework, entering 2026, formally adding Brazil and Turkey to the Visa Exemption (Bebas Visa Kunjungan / BVK) regime. The policy took effect on 3 July 2025 following the issuance of Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services Regulation No. 9 of 2025, signalling a cautious but strategic recalibration of Indonesia’s border policy.
The decision was confirmed by Yuldi Yusman, Acting Director General of Immigration, who said the move was based on a coordinated, cross-ministerial evaluation process.
“Visa Exemption may be granted to certain countries following continuous evaluation and coordination with relevant government institutions. One of the key considerations for granting BVK to Brazil and Turkey is that both countries already provide reciprocal visa-free access to Indonesian citizens,”
– Yuldi Yusman, Acting Director General of Immigration
Legal Basis and Policy Direction of Free Visa to Indonesia
The regulation is grounded in Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024, which mandates that visa-free facilities must adhere to reciprocity, national security, tourism development, and economic and investment interests. This framework underscores Indonesia’s increasingly selective approach to immigration liberalisation, prioritising strategic value over volume.
From a policy standpoint, the expansion reflects Indonesia’s intention to remain open to global mobility while maintaining tighter controls amid heightened scrutiny on immigration misuse, particularly in key entry points such as Jakarta and Bali.
What the Indonesia Visa Exemption Allows
Under Visa Category A – Visa Exemption (Free of Charge), eligible foreign nationals may enter Indonesia without applying for a visa in advance and without a local guarantor.
Key conditions include:
- Maximum stay: up to 30 days
- Extension: not permitted
- Status conversion: not allowed to any other stay permit
- Permitted activities: tourism, business meetings, and medical treatment
Foreign nationals must exit Indonesia once the stay period ends. Any overstay or misuse of activities may result in administrative sanctions, fines, or future entry restrictions.
Countries Eligible for Free Visa to Indonesia (2026)
As of early 2026, the following jurisdictions qualify for Indonesia’s visa-free entry:
- Brazil
- Brunei Darussalam
- Cambodia
- Colombia
- Hong Kong
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- Peru
- Philippines
- Singapore
- Suriname
- Thailand
- Timor-Leste
- Turkey
- Vietnam
- Foreign nationals holding Singapore Permanent Residency (at selected checkpoints)
Enforcement and Ongoing Review
Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration has reiterated that BVK is implemented on a selective and closely monitored basis. Authorities continue to strengthen foreigner supervision while conducting regular policy reviews to ensure compliance with prevailing immigration laws.
“We support economic development by ensuring that only qualified foreign nationals who contribute positively enter Indonesia,” Yuldi added.
Stay Longer Than 60 Days in Indonesia
If you wish to stay longer than 60 days in Indonesia, the Single Entry Tourist Visa Indonesia is one of the most practical options available. This visa allows foreigners to enter Indonesia for tourism purposes with an initial 60 day validity and can be extended up to 180 days in total, making it ideal for long-term travellers who want to explore the country at a relaxed pace.
As a single entry visa, it is important to note that leaving Indonesia will invalidate the visa status. If you are planning to visit Indonesia for more than 60 days and want a smooth, compliant extension process, Lets Move Indonesia can assist you with the Single Entry Tourist Visa application and extensions, ensuring accurate documentation, timely submissions, and full immigration compliance.
Stay Updated About the Indonesia Visa Exemption with Lets Move Indonesia
From an advisory standpoint, visa exemption is not a shortcut to long-term stay, work, or business operations in Indonesia. Misalignment between visa type and actual activities remains one of the most common compliance risks faced by foreign nationals.
As a subsidiary of LMI Consultancy, Lets Move Indonesia provides advanced guides and assistance to clients in Jakarta and Bali on Indonesian Immigration Strategy, proper visa structuring for short-term and long-term stay, business setup, and tax implications across Indonesia and ASEAN. For travellers whose plans extend beyond short visits, early consultation is critical to avoid regulatory exposure.
