The introduction of visa-free entry for citizens of 10 ASEAN countries is set to revolutionize tourism in the Kepulauan Riau province, particularly in Batam. This move aims to address two major impediments: high ferry prices and the costly Visa on Arrival (VoA), which have historically hindered the growth of international visitor numbers.
With tourism as a critical component of its economy, Kepulauan Riau is making significant strides to remove barriers that prevent potential tourists, especially from neighboring countries, from visiting. The region is hopeful that easing visa restrictions will lead to an increase in visitors.
Currently, round-trip ferry tickets from Batam to Singapore cost about SGD 87.40, a significant increase from previous rates of around SGD 46.00. Additionally, the Visa on Arrival fee is approximately SGD 57.75, adding to the financial burden on tourists.
The local government, led by the Governor of Kepulauan Riau, Ansar Ahmad, has been actively lobbying for the reduction of VoA charges and the introduction of a 7-day short term visa, aimed at boosting tourism without compromising national security.
The new visa framework will potentially include two types: a reciprocal visa-free entry for ASEAN nationals and a more flexible Visa on Arrival for short-term visits, which may extend up to 14 days, subject to the new regulations.
The easing of visa regulations is expected to have a direct positive impact on local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, by increasing occupancy and patronage due to higher tourist inflow.
Read More: Rise in Tourist Visits to Kepri Spurs Call for Visa Exemption
With neighboring countries like Singapore and Malaysia already enjoying robust tourism thanks to favorable visa policies, Kepri’s new visa regulations are crucial for the region to remain competitive and attractive as a tourist destination.
The anticipated visa-free policy and revised Visa on Arrival for ASEAN nationals are strategic moves to enhance Kepri’s appeal as a tourism hub. These changes are expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy by increasing tourist arrivals from ASEAN countries, benefiting both the tourism sector and the broader regional economy.
Kepri is set to implement visa-free entry for 10 ASEAN countries to bolster tourism. This policy shift, coupled with potential adjustments to the Visa on Arrival fees, is aimed at making Batam and the surrounding islands more accessible and attractive to international visitors, thereby enhancing the region’s competitiveness against its ASEAN neighbors.
Source: Batam Pos (2024)
