Difference in VOA & Visitor Visas Explained

The Directorate General of Immigration clarifies the differences between a visa-on-arrival (VOA) for tourism and a visitor visa, such as the B211A.  

The clarification comes as Indonesia has resumed the visa-on-arrival for the citizens of 23 countries arriving in Bali, effective 07 March 2022. 

As reported by the State News Agency Antara, Tourism authorities underline that the VOA provides for a shorter length of stay than the Visitor’s Visa.

The sub-coordinator for public relations from the Director-General of Immigration, Achmad Nur Saleh, issued a written statement on Monday, 07 March 2022, in which he explained: “Foreign tourists using a VOA are allowed a shorter period of stay than those traveling on a B211A visitor visa.” 

Saleh elaborated that a VOA is valid for 30 days but can be extended one time for an additional 30 days. Meanwhile, a B211A visitor visa can be given for an initial 60 days and extended up to four times to permit a maximum stay of 180 days. 

Another significant difference between a VOA and a visitor’s visa is that VOA can not be altered or upgraded into another visa class. On the other hand, a visitor’s visa can, in principle, be converted into a temporary stay permit (ITAS). 

Continuing, Saleh said: “A VOA is available without the need for a guarantor or sponsor. That is one of the reasons why a VOA cannot be converted into an ITAS. To obtain a VOA for tourism, foreign visitors need to prepare a passport that will remain valid for six months and have a ticket to leave Indonesia at the end of their stay, 

Related Article and Link

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