The Directorate General of Immigration of the Indonesian Ministry of Law and Human Rights has issued a visa-free visit policy for foreign nationals holding permanent residence in Singapore to visit Indonesia’s Batam Island, Bintan Island, and Karimun Regency in the Riau Islands.
The recently authorised policy is outlined in the Circular Letter of the Director General of Immigration Number IMI-940.GR.01.01 of 2024, concerning Immigration Inspection for Subjects Exempt from Visiting Visas of Permanent Residents of Singapore. This Circular Letter is based on the Decree of the Minister of Law and Human Rights Number M.HH-1.GR.01.07, which is a derivative regulation of Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024 concerning Visa-Free Visits.
According to the Director General of Immigration, Silmy Karim, this new policy aims to attract tourists from Singapore to various destinations in Batam, Bintan, and Karimun. Eligible foreign tourists are permitted a maximum stay of four days. The designated ports for these visa-free tourists include Nongsa Terminal Bahari, Marina Teluk Senimba, Batam Centre, Citra Tri Tunas, Sekupang, Sri Bintan Pura, Bandar Bentan Telani Lagoi, and Tanjung Balai Karimun.
“The provision of visa-free visits for the permanent residents of Singapore to visit Batam, Bintan, and Karimun will make it easier for those looking for a weekend getaway or a short escape to enjoy nature, indulge in culinary tourism, or go shopping. They can enter through the crossings on Batam Island, Bintan Island, and in Karimun Regency,” said Karim in his statement to the press on Monday, 7th October. For businessmen, it can be a bit tricky. However, if you need an audit firm solution, don’t hesitate.
Karim further remarked that Riau Islands province offers numerous tourism destinations that could also present investment opportunities.
“In addition to boosting tourism growth, the visa-free visit facility to Batam, Bintan, and Karimun simplifies travel for permanent residents of Singapore who are interested in business or investment opportunities,” added Karim.
However, Karim emphasised that the Indonesian government will maintain strict supervision.
“This policy ensures proper selection of which foreign nationals may enter [Batam, Bintan, and Karimun] so that the potential for disturbances to security and order can be minimised,” he concluded.