DUBAI: In a significant development for travellers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Indonesia is set to launch an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) service, offering a quicker and more convenient way to obtain entry visas.
Beginning in the first half of December 2024, the new platform will allow residents of UAE and Saudi Arabia, alongside other eligible nationalities, to apply for their visa entirely online before departure.
This move is aimed at enhancing tourism while providing a seamless travel experience to Indonesia, a favourite destination for many in the UAE.
What is the e-Visa on Arrival (e-VoA)?
The e-VoA system allows UAE residents to complete the entire visa application process online before boarding their flights. Travellers simply visit the VFS Global website, submit their documents, pay the visa fee online, and receive their pre-approved visa via email. Upon arrival in Indonesia, they can use electronic gates or immigration counters, bypassing lengthy queues.
“The Directorate General of Immigration offers the latest digital solutions that enhance the experience for foreign nationals who wish to visit Indonesia. In our collaboration with VFS Global, we aim to effectively contribute to increasing the arrival of foreigners,” Silmy Karim, Director General of Immigration of Indonesia, said in a statement.
How does the e-VoA benefit UAE travellers?
For UAE residents planning a trip to Indonesia, the new e-VoA system eliminates the hassle of long queues and paperwork. With all payments made online, travellers will experience faster entry at Indonesian airports, whether they choose Bali, Jakarta, or any other destination. The dedicated Indonesia counter at VFS Global offices in Dubai adds to the convenience, providing local support for any visa-related queries.
To further assist, the platform offers live support in seven languages, including Arabic, English, and Mandarin, ensuring a smooth application process for diverse travellers.
Why VFS Global and Emirates Airlines are key partners
VFS Global, the world’s leading visa outsourcing and technology service provider, has been chosen to manage this new service, making the process simple and error-free. In addition, a partnership with Emirates Airlines ensures that passengers flying to Indonesia will have a seamless visa application experience. Emirates, a popular choice for UAE travellers to Indonesia, offers daily flights to Bali and Jakarta, further enhancing travel convenience.
Zubin Karkaria, CEO of VFS Global Group, stated, “Indonesia is a very popular destination for travellers across the globe, and we are excited to unveil a service that will make their visa application process quicker, simpler and much more convenient.”
Which nationalities are eligible for the e-VoA?
While the e-VoA is designed for UAE residents, it is open to nationals of 97 countries, making it accessible to a wide range of travellers. The platform’s group booking facility will also be beneficial for large conventions and travel agencies, simplifying bulk applications.
How much will Indonesia visa cost for UAE residents?
The cost of the Indonesian e-VoA for UAE travellers is expected to be around AED 120, with an additional AED 50 service fee charged by VFS Global. Payments are made online, ensuring a fast and secure process.
Why UAE residents love Indonesia
Indonesia remains one of the top travel destinations for UAE residents, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned tourist spots like Bali. Emirates Airlines offers direct daily flights from Dubai to Denpasar in Bali, and Jakarta, the capital city, providing easy access for holidaymakers and business travellers alike.
With the introduction of the e-VoA, travellers from the UAE can look forward to a smoother, faster visa process, making their Indonesian getaways even more enjoyable. As Indonesia continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure, the e-VoA is just one of the many ways the country is making travel more accessible to visitors from the UAE and beyond.