TEMPO.CO, Tangerang - Starting on January 1 until January 14, 2021, foreign nationals are barred from entering Indonesia, including through Soekarno-Hatta Airport.

Air Handling Head of Covid-19 Task Force Col. Pas MA Silaban said the policy is effective for foreign visitors from all countries. “Based on circular SE No.04/2020, there is a temporary closure for foreign nationals from all countries entering Indonesia, either through direct or transit flights,” Silaban said in a written statement on Thursday, December 31, 2020.

The policy excludes diplomatic and official visa holders. Those with the two visas related to the working visit of state officials may enter Indonesia. The foreign citizens with diplomatic and official residence permits, as well as those with limited stay permit (KITAS) and permanent stay permit (KITAP), are also allowed to enter the country.

“Soekarno-Hatta Airport personnel will reassure [to implement] this policy, that the foreign nationals excluded in the issuance can enter Indonesia,” Silaban said.

Soekarno-Hatta Airport offered dispensation for foreign citizens who landed in Indonesia on January 1, 2021, at 00:00-06:00 western Indonesia time. They are permitted to enter Indonesia due to the dynamic flight operational.

The foreign nationals who land in the period of the closure will be asked to fly out of Indonesia. “We’ll make sure of that.”

Read: Indonesia Bans International Visitors Over New Covid-19 Variant

JONIANSYAH HARDJONO