Ready to explore Indonesia’s islands, jungles and vibrant cities? This authoritative guide walks you through every visa option—from visa-free entry to long-term digital-nomad permits—so you can pick the path that suits your trip.
Understanding Indonesia’s Entry Options
Indonesia offers several paths depending on your nationality, trip length and purpose.
Visa-Free Entry and Visa on Arrival
If you’re from one of 92 eligible countries, you can enter Indonesia {{anchor1}} for up to 30 days. U.S. citizens, for example, enjoy this 30-day allowance but must show:
– A return or onward ticket
– Passport valid for at least six months ({{anchor2}})
Nationals of over 60 countries can also grab a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at major airports or seaports. The VoA costs USD 35 and allows a 30-day stay, extendable once for another 30 days (verified by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights){{anchor3}}.
B211A Tourist Visa (e-Visa)
If you plan to stay beyond 60 days or wish to apply in advance, the B211A Tourist Visa might suit you. Key points:
1. Available as an e-Visa through Indonesia’s official immigration portal{{anchor4}}.
2. Permits an initial stay of up to 60 days.
3. Can be applied for offshore (before arrival) or onshore (while in Indonesia).
4. Requires a scanned passport bio-page and a recent passport-style photo.
You can extend this visa once for 30 days at any Immigration Office in Jakarta in about 3–5 business days.
e-Visa Categories and Process
Indonesia’s e-Visa system now handles multiple visa types online: tourist, business, conference, family-stay and more. Here’s how it works:
– Create an account on the Directorate General of Immigration e-Visa portal.
– Upload required documents and pay fees via credit card.
– Receive your electronic visa via email within 3–7 days.
– Track application status anytime on the portal.
Most e-Visas are valid for single entry, 60-day stays. You can request a 30-day extension once through an Immigration Office or a licensed agent.
Multiple-Entry & Second-Home Visas
Frequent travelers, remote workers and businesspeople have new, flexible visa choices.
D1 & D2 Multiple-Entry Visas
Launched in 2022, these visas last up to five years with 60-day stays per visit, renewable each entry.
– D1: Tourism-oriented, requires a local sponsor (travel agency or individual).
– D2: Business-oriented, requires corporate sponsorship.
Both require proof of funds and sponsor letters, but they remove the hassle of reapplying every trip.
Second-Home Visa for Digital Nomads
Indonesia is rolling out a “Second-Home Visa” to lure remote workers. It eases financial requirements, grants longer stays and streamlines renewals. This new category fits those who:
– Work remotely for non-Indonesian employers
– Seek stable, long-term residency without local employment
– Value Indonesia’s affordable living and digital-nomad communities (according to Wonderful Indonesia){{anchor5}}
Extending Your Stay & Avoiding Overstay Fines
Extension Process
If your initial visa allows extensions (VoA, B211A or certain e-Visas), head to an Immigration Office—Jakarta’s main branch handles most applications. You’ll need:
1. Completed application form (available at the office or online)
2. Original passport plus copy of bio-page
3. Proof of onward travel
4. Two recent passport-size photos
Processing takes 3–7 business days.
Overstay Penalties
Overstaying even a day can cost you dearly. Fines start at IDR 500,000 (around USD 35) per day, with potential deportation and entry bans ({{anchor6}}).
Applying Safely: Avoiding Scams
Beware of unauthorized agents promising “guaranteed” visas. To stay secure:
– Use only the official immigration portal (https://www.imigrasi.go.id/en/e-visa/)
– Decline offers from third-party sites charging hidden fees
– Confirm agent credentials via the Directorate General of Immigration hotline
“Many travelers fall victim to bogus agents and pay double fees, then face application refusals,” warns an immigration official (as reported by The Jakarta Post){{anchor7}}.
Indonesia’s Tourism Drive: What It Means for You
Indonesia aims to welcome 18 million foreign visitors by 2025, bolstering new routes and infrastructure (Kompas reports){{anchor8}}. You’ll notice:
– More sustainable-travel options in Bali, Borneo and Sumatra
– Green resorts certified under national eco-standards
– Improved airport security and family-friendly facilities
By 2025, expect streamlined processes for retirees, families and nomads—making your next visit smoother than ever.
Time to Pack Your Bags
Whether you’re island-hopping on a VoA, settling in on a Second-Home Visa or extending your stay for eco-trekking adventures, Indonesia’s visa landscape has you covered. Choose the route that fits your travel style, follow official channels and get ready to experience one of the world’s most diverse destinations.
Last modified: August 21, 2025