To boost its standing in the global tourism and business sectors, Indonesia announced the expansion of its e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) service to 97 countries. 

Beginning next month, December 2024, this initiative simplifies entry for citizens of key source markets. Among those in the roster are Australia, Germany, Singapore, and the United States. 

The expansion of the e-VOA service is in keeping with Indonesia’s broader goals of attracting investment, revitalizing tourism, and strengthening its position as a global travel hub.

A country bouncing back from the pandemic

Indonesia’s current e-VOA initiative was spurred by the post-pandemic recovery of the country’s tourism sector. 

Last year, Indonesia welcomed 11.7 million international visitors, up by 98.3 percent from the total seen in 2022. 

This surge was driven by top source countries like Malaysia, Australia, Singapore, China, and Timor Leste. 

As of October 2024, Indonesia recorded nearly 9.1 million foreign tourists. Although this figure remains below pre-pandemic levels, experts predict 2024 could become a record-breaking year for tourism.

A much-needed boost

That said, the expansion of the e-VOA expansion is key to further accelerating recovery. 

By making entry more seamless for citizens of 97 nations, Indonesia is likely to attract even more visitors, particularly high-spending leisure tourists and business travelers. 

This influx of tourists is expected to benefit major destinations such as Bali and Jakarta while opening opportunities for lesser-explored regions like Lake Toba and Raja Ampat.