Indonesia Proposes New Regulations for Visa Onshore Application and Visa Exemptions

Overview of the visa application process in Indonesia

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered travel and immigration procedures. Since 2021, Indonesian Immigration has issued additional regulations regarding visas and residence permits. An online visa application scheme was introduced to facilitate the visa application process, though recent developments suggest substantial amendments are forthcoming.

Visa Online Onshore Disablement

Visa Onshore allows applicants already in Indonesia to apply for residence permits. This service emerged during the pandemic as a response to lockdown regulations, reducing international travel. As pandemic restrictions ease, immigration authorities plan to deactivate this online onshore application process.

The proposed change would require foreigners to complete visa applications in their home countries instead. However, the ability to transition from a B21 IA visitor visa to an ITAS (Limited Stay Permit) will remain available, as this option predates the pandemic.

Changes in Visa Health Requirements

As the pandemic situation improves, officials propose eliminating mandatory health documentation. Specifically, vaccination certificates and health insurance will no longer be mandatory for visa applications.

When will the regulations become effective?

The regulations remain in proposal stage and require further implementation steps. Immigration authorities may issue new circulars providing additional guidance on visa procedures and requirements. Applicants should monitor official updates to stay informed about regulatory changes affecting Indonesian visa processes.