In a move to bolster its tourism sector and attract foreign investment, Indonesia has overhauled its multiple-entry visa policies, allowing eligible foreign nationals to stay in the country for up to 180 consecutive days without the need to exit and re-enter.

The Directorate General of Immigration announced the new regulations, which mark a significant shift from the previous rules limiting travelers to 60-day stays per visit.

Under the updated policy, visitors can now extend their stay twice, with each extension granting an additional 60 days, for a total of six months.

The multiple-entry visa itself remains valid for one year from issuance.

The policy change eliminates the need for “visa runs,” a cumbersome process requiring travelers to leave and re-enter Indonesia to reset their visa clock.

This is expected to appeal to long-term tourists, business professionals, retirees, and remote workers, particularly in popular destinations like Bali, Yogyakarta, and Jakarta.

“This reform aligns with Indonesia’s goal of revitalizing tourism and positioning itself as a hub for global professionals,” said an immigration official.

The move comes as the country seeks to recover from pandemic-related disruptions and compete with other Southeast Asian nations for foreign visitors and investment.

While the policy simplifies stays for leisure travelers, with many extensions manageable online or through agents, business and technical visa holders may face additional requirements, such as in-person visits to immigration offices for document verification or biometric data collection.

The extended stay option is poised to enhance Indonesia’s appeal as a cost-effective base for remote workers and entrepreneurs, offering reliable infrastructure and a vibrant cultural landscape.

Immigration authorities noted that while extensions for casual visits like holidays are straightforward, all approvals remain subject to official discretion.