In a move set to enhance tourism and ease travel, Singaporean permanent residents can now enjoy visa-free entry to Indonesia through eight designated ports in the Riau Islands. This initiative follows the issuance of a directive from the Directorate General of Immigration.
On October 8, 2024, the Chief of the Riau Islands Tourism Office, Guntur Sakti, announced the implementation of visa-free entry for Singaporean permanent residents. This policy, outlined in the Directorate General of Immigration’s Circular IMI-940.GR.01.01 of 2024, aligns with Ministerial Decision M.HH-1.GR.01.07 and aims to stimulate the regional economy by attracting tourists and investors from Singapore.
The visa-free privilege is granted as per Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024, allowing holders of a blue National Registration Identity Card from Singapore visa-free entry, provided they enter and exit through one of the eight designated ports in the Riau Islands.
The eligible ports for visa-free entry include Nongsa Terminal Ferry Bahari, Marina Teluk Senimba, Batam Centre, Citra Tri Tunas, Sekupang, Sri Bintan Pura, Bandar Bintan Telani Lagoi, and Tanjung Balai Karimun.
Eligible Singaporean permanent residents can stay for up to four days without the possibility of extending or changing their visitation status within Indonesia.
The Riau Islands Tourism Office anticipates that the visa-free entry will lead to increased tourist visits, promote economic growth, boost investment, and strengthen the region’s position as a key border tourism destination.
Read More: Indonesia Offers Visa-Free Entry to Singaporean Permanent Residents
Efforts are underway to widely disseminate information about this new visa-free policy among stakeholders, including immigration offices and the tourism sector, to ensure its successful implementation.
The introduction of visa-free entry for Singaporean permanent residents through selected ports is expected to significantly benefit the Riau Islands’ tourism and economy. This policy not only simplifies travel for thousands but also cements the Riau Islands’ reputation as an accessible and attractive destination for regional visitors.
The Riau Islands in Indonesia now welcome Singaporean permanent residents without a visa through eight designated ports, aiming to boost tourism and economic interactions between Singapore and Indonesia. This policy underscores a strategic effort to enhance border tourism and foster closer ties with Singapore by facilitating easier travel for its permanent residents.
Source: Liputan6 (2024)
