Indonesia has expanded its visa-free entry policy to include six additional nations and territories, aiming to bolster tourism and foreign investment. According to the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, the new policy—formalized under Regulation Number 10 of 2026—took effect on July 9, 2026, granting visa-free access to citizens from Brazil, Turkey, Peru, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and the Macau Special Administrative Region.
Strategic Expansion of Visa-Free Access
The updated regulation replaces the previous framework established in 2025. Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto stated that the policy shift is a calculated move to stimulate economic growth while maintaining strict national security protocols. The decision was not made unilaterally; rather, it followed an extensive evaluation process aligned with Presidential Regulation Number 95 of 2024.
“We consider the principle of reciprocity, national security, and the potential for tourism and investment,” Agus said. He emphasized that Indonesia does not grant visa-free facilities without clear strategic objectives, noting that the government evaluates each partner country based on its potential to contribute to Indonesia’s position in the global economy.
Did you know?
With this latest expansion, Indonesian passport holders now enjoy visa-free access to 88 countries worldwide, reflecting the country’s growing diplomatic reach.
Diplomatic Ties: The Indonesia-Kazakhstan Partnership
The inclusion of Kazakhstan has been highlighted as a significant diplomatic milestone. Fadjroel Rachman, the Indonesian Ambassador to Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, noted that the move is expected to drive bilateral trade and tourism between the two nations. According to Rachman, the policy builds upon a pre-existing agreement where Kazakhstan had already granted visa-free access to Indonesian citizens.
Rachman anticipates that this alignment will catalyze economic activity, projecting that trade between Indonesia and Kazakhstan could reach USD 2 billion within the next three to five years. The ambassador encouraged increased exchanges, inviting citizens from both nations to pursue tourism, trade, and educational opportunities.
Economic and Security Considerations
The government’s shift toward a more selective visa-free policy reflects a balance between open-door tourism and rigorous border control. By moving away from blanket visa exemptions, the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections is utilizing the “principle of reciprocity.” This ensures that Indonesia only extends travel privileges to nations that offer similar benefits to Indonesian citizens.
Travelers planning to utilize visa-free entry should always verify the latest status of their specific passport and entry requirements via official Indonesian embassy channels before departure, as regulations can be subject to further government review.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which countries were added to the visa-free list in 2026?
The list includes Turkey, Brazil, Peru, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and the Macau Special Administrative Region. - When did the new visa regulation take effect?
The regulation became effective on July 9, 2026. - How many countries can Indonesians visit visa-free?
Currently, Indonesian passport holders have visa-free access to 88 countries. - Is the visa-free policy permanent?
The policy is subject to ongoing government evaluation based on reciprocity, security, and economic impact, as defined by Presidential Regulation Number 95 of 2024.
Are you planning a trip to one of the newly added countries or looking to visit Indonesia soon? Share your thoughts on how these diplomatic ties impact your travel plans in the comments section below.
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