The Indonesian immigration service has simplified visa classifications: from 133 indexes to only 110. The new system aims to make visa processing more understandable, quicker, and convenient. This is particularly important given the growing flow of tourists, freelancers, investors, and work-related visitors.
Previously, each purpose of visit corresponded to a specific code, leading to many overlaps and confusion. For example, business visits and medical trips had different indexes, even if a person was staying for just a few days. Now it's simpler. For short-term trips from visa-free countries (up to 30 days), there's one index: A1. It covers tourism, business visits, and medical treatment. For visas on arrival (VoA), index B1 has been introduced. It offers the same opportunities: tourism, business purposes, and outpatient treatment. The visa is valid for 30 days with a one-time extension of another month.
New visas have also been introduced. For instance, index C7C is suitable for participation in cultural and creative events. With this visa, foreigners can showcase their professional skills in Indonesia: perform magic tricks, hold fan meetings, perform comedy acts, or participate in culinary shows. The main requirement is that it shouldn’t be related to concerts, as special rules apply to musical events.
Business visas have also undergone changes. For foreign investors wishing to invest in the construction of the new capital Nusantara, a separate category has been created: visa E28F. Visa E28G is intended for those sent to work in the Indonesian branch from the head office of a foreign company. With this visa, one can officially represent their employer's interests in the country.
The category of work visas has been significantly reworked. Previously, there were over 30 types, now there are six. Work visas for skilled foreign professionals employed by companies were particularly complex: this category included 20 indexes from E23B to E23W. Now all these are combined under one index - E23, which reduces bureaucracy and simplifies the application process.
If a specialist is invited not on behalf of a company but by an organization, foundation, or other nonprofit institution, two new indexes are provided: E23U and E23V. This offers greater flexibility as not all professionals work in business — there are scientists, artists, activists who collaborate with cultural or educational centers.
All changes are outlined in official decree No. M.IP-08.GR.01.01 of 2025. The simplification of the system should help tourists quickly understand which visa to apply for before traveling to Indonesia.
Sources: Direktorat Jenderal Imigrasi, Antara.
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