In a move aimed at enhancing tourism and economic ties, the Indonesian government has introduced a visa-free entry policy for Singapore Permanent Residents (PR) visiting select regions in the Riau Islands Province, including Batam, Bintan, and Karimun. This policy allows PR holders from Singapore to stay for up to four days without needing a visa, facilitating easier travel between the two neighboring countries.
The new regulation, outlined in Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024, grants visa-free entry to Singapore PR holders visiting Batam, Bintan, and Karimun. This policy, effective at designated entry points, applies to visitors for stays of up to four days, and no extensions are permitted. The regulation aims to boost tourism and economic activity in the region, particularly from Singapore, a key neighbor of Batam and the Riau Islands.
Anggit Suhandono, Director of Immigration Traffic, explained that Singapore PR holders benefit from this visa-free arrangement due to their status being accredited by the Singapore government. With this recognition, they can enter Indonesia without the need for additional visa checks, simplifying entry processes at ports in Batam, Bintan, and Karimun.
Singapore PR holders can use several ports for entry, including Batam’s Nongsa Terminal Bahari and Batam Centre, Bintan’s Bandar Bentan Telani, and Karimun’s Tanjung Balai. This policy is part of a broader effort to attract more visitors from Singapore to the Riau Islands, with officials expecting a positive impact on tourism and local economies.
Despite the visa-free arrangement, the policy only applies to the Riau Islands. Travelers wishing to explore other regions in Indonesia must return to Singapore first and obtain a visa corresponding to their nationality before continuing their journey.
Indonesian immigration has also implemented a state-of-the-art border system that ensures accurate tracking of visitor entries and exits based on their PR status, rather than passport details. This system helps maintain secure and efficient travel, while simplifying re-entry procedures for PR holders.
Read More: Singaporean PRs Granted Visa-Free Entry Through Eight Ports in Riau Islands
As this initiative is aimed at boosting tourism and economic exchanges, local governments and businesses in the Riau Islands are optimistic about the benefits. With easier access for Singapore PR holders, officials anticipate increased visitor numbers, which will directly support hospitality, retail, and tourism-related services.
The introduction of visa-free entry for Singapore PR holders to Batam, Bintan, and Karimun reflects Indonesia’s commitment to fostering closer ties with its neighboring countries. By easing travel restrictions, the policy is expected to significantly boost regional tourism and the local economy.
Indonesia now allows Singapore PR holders to enter Batam, Bintan, and Karimun without a visa for up to four days. This new policy is expected to enhance tourism and economic growth in the Riau Islands.
Sources: Tribun News, Liputan6 (2024)
Keywords: Singapore PR Visa-Free, Batam Bintan Entry, Karimun Access
