TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno along with Law and Human Rights Minister Yasonna Laoly were discussing a policy to grant a long-term visa for foreign tourists that could last for five years.

“They will be allowed to invest here, and the visa is renewed every 5 years,” said Sandiaga in a written statement on Tuesday, February 9.

He explained that the policy was expected to increase the tourism quality in terms of the length of stay and tourists’ spending that could boost the people’s economy. Moreover, he added, there are 1 billion potential tourists aged over 60 years with an income of more than US$1.5 trillion.

The visa policy would be prepared by considering the current trends. Indonesia, the minister went on, was eyeing business people and foreign tourists who visit the country for 3-4 months during the winter season in their home country. The plan was also prepared for foreign nationals who work from Bali and digital nomads.

He reiterated that the long-term visa under the second home concept would require several conditions, such as foreign tourists must deposit Rp2 billion per individual or Rp2.5 billion per family.

The long-term visa policy plan, Sandiaga Uno underlined, was in line with the government's preparation to open the travel bubble and the ASEAN Travel Corridor. Some of the entrance gates prepared are Bali, Batam, and Bintan.

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FRANCISCA CHRISTY ROSANA