Korea-Indonesia Agree on 'Simplified Entry Procedures for Businesspeople'... Effective from the 17th

On the 22nd, businesspeople and expatriate families heading to Vietnam are checking in at Terminal 1 of Incheon International Airport. Photo by Mun Ho-nam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] On the 12th, Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha spoke with Retno Marsudi, Indonesia's Foreign Minister, and agreed on measures to simplify the entry procedures for businesspeople entering Indonesia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on the 13th. This is the third case following China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

An official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained, "Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), South Korea and Indonesia have continuously discussed ways to maintain quarantine capabilities to prevent the spread of COVID-19 while ensuring smooth entry and free economic activities for businesspeople from both countries."

With this agreement, our businesspeople can now enter Indonesia, where entry had been virtually suspended. If they carry a COVID-19 negative certificate issued domestically, they will be exempted from the 14-day quarantine in Indonesia. They must apply for a visa at the Embassy of Indonesia in Korea, and the local inviting company must apply for an invitation letter to relevant agencies such as the Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), after which the visa will be issued following the procedures.

The Indonesian government has prohibited entry and transit of all foreigners except for some exceptions such as holders of long-term stay permits (KITAS/KITAP), holders of diplomatic or official stay permits, and workers participating in national strategic projects since April 2.

This agreement is the first case institutionalizing special entry for businesspeople from countries targeted by the New Southern Policy. The simplified entry measures for businesspeople agreed upon with Indonesia are scheduled to be implemented from the 17th.