Government increases fees for visas-on-arrival

IMPACT – LOW

What is the change? Indonesia’s Immigration Office has increased the fees on 30-day and seven-day visas-on-arrival (VOAs).

What does the change mean? This is a small increase, but an opportunity to remind foreign assignees and business travelers that VOAs do not substitute for work permits or business visas.

• Implementation timeframe: Immediate and ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: 30-day and seven-day VOAs.
• Who is affected: All foreign nationals eligible for VOAs.
• Impact on processing times: None.
• Business impact: Minimal—VOAs are primarily used for tourism and visits with friends and family.

Background: The VOA fees have increased from US $25 to $35 for 30-day VOAs and from US $10 to $15 for seven-day VOAs. The hikes are among several increased fees, including higher passport application fees for Indonesians, which have been announced by the Immigration Office.

BAL Analysis: Companies should be aware that VOAs should not be used for work or business in Indonesia. Foreign nationals must have Business Visas for business visits or Temporary Stay Visas (VITAS) when entering for work. Despite statements on Indonesian embassy and consular websites about the use of VOAs for business visits, business travelers who do so risk being stopped at entry and returned to their last port of call at the absolute discretion of Indonesian border authorities.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Indonesia. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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