In a move to boost tourism and attract investment, Indonesia has announced visa-free entry for Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs) traveling to Bintan, Batam, and the Karimun Islands. This new policy allows PR holders to stay for up to four days, making short getaways easier and more convenient.
The New Visa-Free Entry Rules
The visa-free travel policy allows Singapore PRs to stay for up to four days. This initiative aims to stimulate tourism and investment in the regional economic zones.
Enhanced Tourism Opportunities
Indonesia’s Director-General of Immigration, Silmy Karim, emphasized that this visa-free initiative, known as the Free Visit Visa, aims to simplify travel for Singapore PRs looking for a weekend escape.
Whether it’s nature, culinary tourism, or shopping, the relaxed entry requirements are designed to attract more visitors to these popular Indonesian destinations.
“Providing visa-free entry to Singapore PRs will make it easier for them to enjoy short holidays in Batam, Bintan, and Karimun,” said Mr. Karim in a recent statement.
Accessible Entry Points for Visa-Free Travel
Singapore PR holders can enter through various ports in the Riau Islands region. Ports offering this visa-free entry include:
• Nongsa Terminal Bahari
• Marina Teluk Senimba
• Batam Centre
• Citra Tri Tunas
• Sekupang
• Sri Bintan Pura
• Bandar Bentan Telani Lagoi
• Tanjung Balai Karimun
This policy covers key areas in the region, including the Nongsa Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Batam and Bintan Resorts, which focus on digital business, the creative economy, and tourism.
Focus on Tourism and Investment
The visa-free policy is expected to attract more Singapore PRs to explore the tourism potential of the Riau Islands. The region boasts several exclusive economic zones, such as the Nongsa SEZ in Batam and Bintan Resorts, offering opportunities for digital business, creative economy, and tourism.
Streamlined Process for Business and Investment
The new policy also provides a more streamlined process for Singapore PRs interested in business or investment in the special economic zones in Batam.
Security and Order
While the visa requirements have been relaxed, Indonesia remains committed to ensuring security and order. The government will continue to carefully select incoming visitors to minimize potential disturbances.
A Boost for Regional Tourism
The visa-free policy is a significant step towards boosting tourism and economic activity in the Riau Islands. It aligns with Indonesia’s broader efforts to attract foreign visitors and investment.
Singapore’s Large PR Population
Singapore boasts a substantial population of permanent residents, numbering around 545,000. This provides a significant pool of potential visitors to the Riau Islands.
Initiative to Attract Global Visitors
Indonesia has been actively promoting tourism and investment by implementing various initiatives, such as the “second home” and golden visas for wealthy individuals and foreign investors.
In 2022, Indonesia launched the travel bubble zone, which included Bintan, Batam, and Singapore. This initiative facilitated travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Expanding Visa-Free Access
Indonesia continues to expand its visa-free program. Earlier this year, President Joko Widodo added 13 countries and regions to the visa-free list, including Hong Kong, Suriname, and Colombia, offering further opportunities for international tourism.
Conclusion
The visa-free policy for Singapore PRs is a positive development for tourism and investment in the Riau Islands. It aligns with Indonesia’s broader efforts to promote its tourism sector and attract foreign investment.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/singapore-prs-get-visa-free-access-to-3-indonesian-islands/
