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Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, extends from Sabang in Aceh to Merauke in Papua, comprising over 17,000 islands interconnected by seas and straits. This diverse nation offers a rich array of natural wonders, making it a prime destination for global tourists. As of August 2024, the Indonesia Visa-Free Country List grants visa free access to citizens of 169 countries, enhancing its appeal to international travelers.
Tourism Surge in 2024
In 2024, Indonesia experienced a monumental surge in international tourism, welcoming 11.7 million visitors, a staggering 98% increase from 2022. Among these, 610,000 were from India, almost reaching pre-pandemic levels for Indian tourists. The Indonesian government continues to support this growth by offering visa-free entry to citizens of 169 nations.
Economic Impact and Investments
During the 2024 ITIF event, Sandiaga Uno, the Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, announced that Indonesia attracted over US$3 billion in tourism investments in the previous year, exceeding the US$2.6 billion target. However, 80% of these investments were concentrated in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, highlighting the sector’s focus areas.
Indonesia ranks second in Southeast Asia with a remarkable score of 4.46 on a 7-point scale, outperforming major emerging markets like Brazil and India. The nation’s tourism and creative economy sectors faced a severe downturn during the COVID-19 pandemic, but a significant recovery began in early 2023. This revival, driven by reintroducing visa-free access, led to a 12.57% increase in tourist activity, equating to 433.57 million tourist movements. Minister Sandiaga Uno remains optimistic, projecting 14 million foreign tourists in 2024, although this still falls short of the 2019 pre-pandemic levels.
Expert Insights and Future Outlook
According to the 2023-24 Tourism and Creative Economy Outlook report, 76.19% of experts believe that Indonesian tourism is on the path to recovery. Of these, 46.15% attribute this growth to the development of high-quality, innovative tourist destinations.
“Indonesia’s travel industry is emerging strong post-COVID-19, thanks to visa-free access for 169 countries, a focus on top-notch destinations, and the thriving Southeast Asian market,” said Anup Keshan, CEO of TTW. As per our report, some of the countries’ travelers are required to pay and apply for a visa on arrival, including India; however, they are allowed to travel and board the flight to Indonesia. This optimistic perspective highlights dedicated efforts to revitalize the industry, sparking hope for the future.
Visa free Countries:
Albania
Algeria
Andorra
Angola
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Armenia
Australia
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belize
Benin
Bhutan
Bolivia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Canada
Cabo Verde
Chad
Chile
China
Dominica
Comoros
Costa Rica
Ivory Coast
Croatia
Cuba
Cyprus
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
United Kingdom
Fiji
Gabon
Gambia
Georgia
Ghana
Grenada
Guatemala
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
Hong Kong
India
Ireland
Jamaica
Japan
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kiribati
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Lebanon
Lesotho
North Macedonia
Madagascar
Malawi
Malaysia
Maldives
Mali
Marshall Islands
Mauritania
Mauritius
Mexico
Moldova
Monaco
Mongolia
Morocco
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
Nauru
Nepal
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Palau
Palestine
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Puerto Rico
Romania
Russia
Rwanda
Samoa
San Marino
Sao Tome and Principe
Senegal
Serbia
Seychelles
Singapore
Solomon Island
South Africa
South Korea
Sri Lanka
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Suriname
Eswatini
Taiwan
Tajikistan
Tanzania
Thailand
Timor-Leste
Togo
Tonga
Trinidad and Tobago
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
Tuvalu
Uganda
Ukraine
Uruguay
United States
Uzbekistan
Vanuatu
Vatican City
Venezuela
Vietnam
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Schengen:
Austria
Belgium
Czechia
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Italy
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Gulf
Bahrain
Kuwait
Oman
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
As per our report, out of 169 countries, some travelers are required to pay and apply for a visa on arrival. However, according to www.indonesia.travel, all countries enjoy visa-free arrival.
These travelers will be granted permission for short-term stays upon arrival, streamlining the entry process and promoting a more accessible travel experience to the diverse and culturally rich archipelago.
Indonesia’s New Golden Visa Policy
Indonesia has also launched a new Golden Visa policy, a strategic initiative designed to attract foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals. This policy offers long-term residency options, fostering economic growth and innovation within the country. Key features of the Golden Visa policy include:
Eligibility and Investment Requirements:
Investors: Individuals who invest a significant amount in Indonesian businesses or real estate can qualify for the Golden Visa. Specific investment thresholds will be outlined by the government to ensure substantial contributions to the economy.
Entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurs looking to establish businesses in Indonesia, particularly in sectors identified as priorities by the government, can apply for the Golden Visa. This encourages innovation and job creation within the country.
Skilled Professionals: Highly skilled professionals in fields such as technology, healthcare, and education may be eligible for the Golden Visa, addressing the demand for expertise in critical industries.
Benefits:
Extended Residency: The Golden Visa grants extended residency rights, allowing holders to live and work in Indonesia for an extended period, typically ranging from five to ten years, with the possibility of renewal.
Pathway to Citizenship: The Golden Visa can serve as a pathway to Indonesian citizenship for those who meet the necessary criteria, offering a long-term commitment to the country’s development.
Family Inclusion: Applicants can include immediate family members in their Golden Visa application, ensuring that families can stay together while contributing to Indonesia’s growth.
Application Process:
Simplified Procedures: The Indonesian government has streamlined the application process for the Golden Visa, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring a more efficient and transparent system.
Support Services: Dedicated support services are available to assist applicants with their submissions, providing guidance on requirements and facilitating a smooth transition for new residents.
Economic and Cultural Integration:
Investment in Local Communities: Golden Visa holders are encouraged to invest in local communities, contributing to regional development and fostering economic growth across the country.
Cultural Exchange: The policy promotes cultural exchange by attracting diverse talents and perspectives, enriching Indonesia’s social fabric and enhancing its global connections.
By implementing the Golden Visa policy, Indonesia aims to position itself as an attractive destination for global investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. This initiative not only bolsters the economy but also enhances the country’s international appeal, paving the way for sustained growth and development.
Technology’s Role and Southeast Asian Market Potential
Technology is increasingly crucial to Indonesia’s tourism sector, with 43.59% of experts noting its growing importance. Additionally, 38.46% emphasize boosting domestic tourist revenue as a key growth factor.
In the international tourism arena, 71.79% of experts express confidence in the Southeast Asian market’s potential to enhance Indonesia’s tourism. This aligns with Minister Uno’s expectations for a robust Southeast Asian economy in 2023, likely to attract more international tourists to Indonesia.
International Cooperation and Major Projects
Indonesia is a leader in global cooperation, extending efforts beyond G20 countries with 361 projects valued at approximately US$238 billion. These initiatives include establishing an agricultural training center in Fiji and providing disaster management training through the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). India plays a pivotal role in the Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group, focusing on managing disaster risks, creating resilient economies, and addressing the rising frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
Tourist Demographics and Popular Destinations
As of March 2024, Australia remains the leading source of direct foreign tourists to Bali, Indonesia, with Australians making around 323,531 visits. Chinese tourists follow closely, with 121,353 arrivals. Bali continues to be Indonesia’s top tourist destination, attracting nearly 6.3 million direct foreign visitors before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019.
Java, Indonesia’s most populous island, is also the world’s most densely populated island, with over 150 million residents spread across 130,000 km², equating to nearly 1,200 people per km². Jakarta, the capital city, is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural heritage, known for its skyscrapers, busy streets, and historical significance as a political and economic hub.
Top Destinations in Indonesia
Bali: Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and lush landscapes. Notable spots include Uluwatu Temple, Seminyak, Ubud, and Kuta Beach.
Borobudur Temple: Located in Central Java, Borobudur is the world’s largest Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient structure is famous for its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere.
Komodo National Park: Home to the iconic Komodo dragons, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, making it a premier destination for diving and snorkeling.
Raja Ampat: An archipelago in West Papua, Raja Ampat is a paradise for divers and nature lovers. It’s known for its pristine coral reefs, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking island scenery.
Mount Bromo: Located in East Java, Mount Bromo is an active volcano that offers one of Indonesia’s most iconic landscapes. The best views are at sunrise, with the surrounding Tengger Caldera providing a dramatic backdrop.
Yogyakarta and Prambanan Temple: Yogyakarta, often called Jogja, is a cultural hub known for its traditional arts, crafts, and historic sites. Nearby Prambanan Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning Hindu temple complex.
Gili Islands: Comprising Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, these small islands near Lombok are popular for their clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.
Luxury Resorts in Indonesia
Amanjiwo: Situated near the Borobudur Temple in Central Java, Amanjiwo offers a serene and luxurious experience with stunning views, elegant architecture, and world-class service. The resort features suites with private pools, a central pool, and an exquisite restaurant offering local and international cuisine.
The Mulia, Bali: Located on the coast of Nusa Dua, The Mulia is known for its opulent accommodations, stunning beachfront location, and exceptional service. The resort offers a variety of lavish suites and villas, an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and fine dining options.
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve: Nestled along the Ayung River in Ubud, Bali, Mandapa offers an intimate and luxurious retreat surrounded by lush greenery and rice terraces. The resort features beautifully designed villas and suites, each with a private pool, as well as a world-class spa and gourmet dining experiences.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan: Located in the cultural heart of Bali, this resort offers breathtaking views of the Ayung River and surrounding rainforest. Guests can enjoy private villas, a stunning infinity pool, and a range of wellness and dining options, all set within a tranquil and luxurious environment.
Bvlgari Resort Bali: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean in Uluwatu, the Bvlgari Resort Bali combines Italian luxury with traditional Balinese architecture. The resort features lavish villas with private pools, exquisite dining options, a stunning cliff-edge infinity pool, and a luxurious spa.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Garuda Indonesia, the nation’s flagship airline, connects over 90 destinations worldwide, highlighting one of Southeast Asia’s largest economies and a stunning archipelago. Operating more than 600 flights daily, Garuda Indonesia offers the acclaimed “Garuda Indonesia Experience,” showcasing Indonesian hospitality and cultural richness.
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, near Jakarta, serves as the primary international gateway to Indonesia and ranks among Southeast Asia’s busiest airports. Located approximately 29 km from downtown Jakarta, it offers convenient access via the Soekarno-Hatta train station.
Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport, is situated around 13 km south of Denpasar at Bali’s southern tip, commonly referred to by travelers as Denpasar Airport.
Indonesia’s extensive train network connects major cities in Java, including Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Solo, Surabaya, Probolinggo (near Mt. Bromo), and Ketapang (gateway to Bali). These trains provide an affordable, comfortable, and air-conditioned travel option, operating on narrow-gauge tracks with a reputation for punctuality and efficient, computerized booking systems.
India leads Indonesia’s ambitious railway project, marking the start of Jakarta’s Mass Rapid Transit system. The Jakarta MRT Phase 2A extends the existing line from Bundaran HI to Kota, covering approximately 12.5 km and including seven new underground stations.
The post Global Travel Advisors Can Plan Trips to Indonesia with Visa Free Travel to 169 Countries, Including USA, Canada, Gulf, ASEAN and Schengen Nations appeared first on Travel And Tour World.