Indonesia has introduced changes to its visa extension procedures, marking a departure from the fully digital system introduced in 2024 and reinstating in-person requirements amid a surge in immigration violations by foreign nationals.
Effective 29 May 2025, all applications for visa extensions — including the popular visa on arrival (VoA) and electronic VoA (eVoA) used by most tourists and long-stay visitors to Bali — must now begin with online registration through the official immigration website, followed by an in-person visit to a local immigration office for document verification and biometric collection.
The new policy, laid out in Circular Letter Number IMI-417.GR.01.01/2025, signals a partial return to earlier procedures that required multiple visits to immigration offices — a process largely replaced last year by a digitized system that allowed many extensions to be completed online.
Rise in Violations Spurs Policy Shift
The Acting Director General of Immigration, Yuldi Yusman, announced the changes this week, citing a sharp increase in immigration violations as the main trigger.
Between January and April 2025, immigration enforcement cases rose 36,71 percent compared to the same period last year — from 1.610 to 2.201 cases.
“The procedure also applies to foreigners who hold a visa on arrival or VoA,” Yusman said. “We have seen a significant rise in cases of visa abuse, and this new system will allow us to monitor visa holders more effectively.”
Officials said that during the in-person biometric appointment, applicants may be asked about the purpose and duration of their stay, as well as their travel plans and proof of financial means.
How the New Hybrid System Works
The updated process begins with applicants registering online via evisa.imigrasi.go.id, where they must select the “extend my visa” option. The website, available in English, is mobile- and desktop-friendly. Applicants are instructed to have their passports ready at the time of submission.
After submitting the online application, foreigners will be notified to attend a biometric and document verification session at their nearest immigration office within two working days.
Walk-in applications remain possible, though these also require a return visit within two working days.
The changes apply to all extendable visa types and are enforced across all immigration offices in Indonesia.
Priority Services Available
In response to accessibility concerns, Yusman confirmed that priority services are available for certain applicants, including the elderly, disabled, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals facing emergencies.
For those qualifying under the priority category, the entire process — including registration, biometric data, and document checks — may be completed in a single visit with officer assistance.
Striking a Balance Between Access and Oversight
The updated rules mark a recalibration of Indonesia’s immigration policy, which has oscillated between modernization and regulatory control.
While 2024 saw the introduction of a fully digital visa extension system — widely welcomed by foreign visitors for its convenience — immigration authorities say stronger oversight is now required.
Though the government has not mandated additional documentation at this stage, visa applicants are advised to prepare details on their residence in Indonesia, onward travel plans, and financial capacity to support their stay.
Immigration authorities reiterated that the most suitable visas for tourists visiting Bali remain the VoA and eVoA, both of which cost IDR 500.000, are valid for 30 days, and are eligible for one extension under the new hybrid process.
