Gov’t to Evaluate Visa Exemption Program

President Jokowi leads a limited meeting at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Tuesday (08/01). (Photo by: PR of Cabinet Secretariat/ Rahmat

The Government will evaluate visa exemption program based on three principles, namely reciprocity, benefits, and security.

The statement was made by Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno in a press statement after a limited meeting at the Presidential Palace compound, Jakarta, Tuesday (08/01).

“We used to provide visa exemption to 159 countries and 10 ASEAN countries. We will evaluate the program based on three principles which will become the guideline, namely reciprocity, benefits, and security,” Sandiaga said.

He went on to say that the evaluation to be made next month is expected to unlock all potential of Indonesian tourism.

“Although we have exceeded the target [of tourist visits], there are still many potentials to develop a good quality and sustainable tourism,” he said adding that the Government has set a target to increase tourists stay in Indonesia to more than seven days with a spending of US$1,000 per person, at minimum.

The Minister also reminded all to be vigilant since great tourism will bring high economic impact to the country. He expressed hope that tourist arrivals will contribute greatly to Indonesia’s economy.

“We want to make sure that it will open businesses. It will stimulate the economy and increase the number of jobs in tourism and creative economy sectors,” he stated.

On that occasion, Sandiaga said that Government Regulation on golden visa policy is currently on finalization phase.

For the record, golden visa is a policy that grants residence permits to foreign nationals by investment or paying a certain fee. (MAY/UN) (RAS/MMB)