Indonesia offers a Visa Exemption, commonly referred to as a Free Visa, to nationals of certain countries for short-term visits. Specifically, this facility allows eligible travelers to enter Indonesia without applying for a visa in advance, for stays up to 30 days, strictly for limited purposes.
In 2025, the Minister of Immigration and Rehabilitation Centers of the Republic of Indonesia issued a Decree Number M.IP-08.GR.01.01 Year 2025 Concerning Visa Classification dated May 2nd, 2025. This decree updates the classification system and refines the types of activities permitted under this scheme. Consequently, the activities are now consolidated into clearer visa indexes. Furthermore, the changes ensure alignment with Presidential Regulation No. 21/2023 and Ministry of Law & Human Rights guidelines.
What is the Visa Exemption / Free Visa?
The Visa Exemption (Free Visa) is granted unilaterally by the Directorate General of Immigration of Indonesia to foreign nationals of specific countries as a form of immigration simplification. It is:
- Valid for 30 days only
- Non-extendable and non-convertible
- Free of charge
- Must be used for tourism, social/family, or government purposes only
Moreover, travelers must exit the country within the allowed period. Overstaying leads to fines of IDR 1,000,000 per day and possible blacklisting.
Visa Index Classification Comparison (2024 vs 2025)
| Index Visa | Presidential Regulation No. 21/2023 (Previous Regulation) | Decree Number M.IP-08.GR.01.01 Year 2025 |
| A1 |
|
|
| A2 |
| – |
| A3 | Undergoing Treatment | – |
| A4 | Government Duties | Government Duties |
| A36 | Captain, pilot, or crew member who is on duty on the Conveyance | Captain, pilot, or crew member who on duty on the Conveyance |
| A37 | Captains, crew members, or foreign experts on board ships or floating devices who come directly with their conveyances to operate in the archipelago waters, territorial sea, continental shelf, and / or Economic Zone Exclusive Economic Zone of Indonesia | Captains, crew members, or foreign experts on board ships or floating devices who come directly with their conveyances to operate in the archipelago waters, territorial sea, continental shelf, and / or Economic Zone Exclusive Economic Zone of Indonesia |
Travelers on a visa exemption cannot engage in the following types of activities: technical work, paid employment, commercial negotiations, and journalism. These type of activities require a work and stay permit, single entry visit visa or multiple entry visit visa.
Countries Eligible for Visa Exemption
Indonesia currently grants free visa access to 15 countries (subject to periodic updates):
| Singapore | Malaysia | Thailand | Vietnam |
| Philippines | Cambodia | Laos | Myanmar |
| Brunei | Timor-Leste | Suriname | Colombia |
| Hong Kong | Türkiye | Brazil |
How PNB Immigration Law Firm can help
Before Your Trip
PNB Immigration Law Firm verifies your eligibility while checking your travel purpose and confirming your itinerary meets A1 visa exemption requirements. The firm helps clients prepare required documents including hotel bookings and return flight information.
After Arrival
Our legal team monitors visa validity while interpreting entry stamps to prevent unintentional overstays. In addition, we provide immediate legal assistance to resolve visa entry or stay violations that occur through incorrect visa selection or extended periods of stay.
If You Need to Upgrade
We assist clients who need visa changes by helping them apply for C2, C3 or Limited Stay Visa (ITAS) based on their new travel purpose. Additionally, once clients have left Indonesia, our team continues to support them by helping obtain an e-Visa, ensuring a smooth transition for their re-entry.