Indonesia: Short-Term Visa Policies Updated

The Indonesian government has updated its visa policies under a new immigration decree. First, visa-free entry and visa-on-arrival have now been classified as Index A1 and B1 (previously, Index A2 and B2). These new classifications apply to tourists and allow a wide range of non-employment activities, including yacht-based tourism, participation in meetings, corporate-funded trips, conventions, exhibitions, family visits, transit, other business functions and undergoing medical treatment. However, they are prohibited from conducting hands-on work activities.        

Second, individuals entering Indonesia on a single-entry basis for tourism, family visits, or transit must use the Index C1 visa. Those entering for business activities (such as negotiations or visits to offices, factories, or investment sites) must obtain the Index C2 visa. For technical work, including equipment installation or repairs, a separate C20 visa is required. Additionally, nationals from countries subject to the Calling Visa policy (which is a visa that requires security clearance and approval from the Directorate General of Immigration) must use Indexes C11 and C11A to participate in international exhibitions as exhibitors.        

Third, multiple-entry visas follow a similar structure. Foreign nationals entering Indonesia for tourism, family visits, or meetings, corporate-funded trips, conventions, exhibitions, conventions and exhibitions must use the Index D1 visa. Those coming for business purposes must use the Index D2 visa. For pre-investment activities such as feasibility studies and site surveys, individuals must obtain the newly introduced Index D12 visa.        

Fourth, the Indonesian government also released a separate regulation introducing the Index C18 visa, which is intended for trial foreign workers. This visa allows holders a single, non-renewable stay of up to 90 days and strictly prohibits receiving payment, engaging in any commercial activities, or overstaying beyond the permitted period.        In practice, the revised visa framework provides clearer guidelines: A1, B1, C1 and D1 holders can attend meetings at operational sites but cannot perform hands-on work. C2 or D2 visas are required for business activities like site visits, while technical work like equipment installation or repairs now requires a C20 visa. Notably, companies can no longer use C18 visas to change an applicant’s status after arrival, as the visa is strictly non-renewable and intended for one-time use only.