Are you planning to travel to Sumatra or anywhere in Indonesia in 2025? A new immigration regulation is now in effect that affects how you can extend your Indonesian visa – including the popular Visa on Arrival (VOA). We gathered everything you need to know for your Indonesia visa extension 2025.
🔔 Important Update: In-Person Visit Required for All Visa Extensions
Starting June 1st, 2025, the Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration requires all foreign nationals to personally visit an immigration office in Indonesia in order to extend their visa.
This new rule affects:
- Visa on Arrival (VOA) – both electronic VOA (e-VOA) and VOA obtained at the airport
- Short-term visit visas (ITK)
- Temporary Stay Permits (ITAS/KITAS)
Previously allowed online or remote visa extensions are no longer valid. Biometric data collection (fingerprints, photo, etc.) is now mandatory and can only be done in person at a local immigration office.
🧭 What This Means for Travelers in Sumatra and Beyond
If you’re planning to stay in Indonesia longer than your initial visa allows, you must now go in person to a local Immigration Office to apply for your visa extension.
✅ Key Requirements:
- For eVoA holders: Register your extension online. Afterwards you get an invitation to the immigration office.
- Personal appearance at an immigration office is mandatory (2–3 times)
- Bring your passport and all required documents
- Be prepared for biometric procedures
- No more full extensions via agents – you must be present
- Applies to all regions, including popular destinations like Sumatra, Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Lombok
🕐 Travel Tips: How to Prepare for the New Visa Extension Rules
To avoid last-minute stress during your trip:
- Visit the Immigration Office early in your stay if you plan to extend
- Be prepared to visit the immigration office 2–3 times
- Allow several days for the process in case of long queues
- If you’re traveling in North Sumatra, the immigration offices in Medan or Binjai are the most accessible
💡 Tip: Need help finding your nearest immigration office or preparing your documents? Our team at Discover Sumatra is happy to assist you with the latest travel and visa information.
Why This Update Matters for Sumatra Visitors
Many international travelers, digital nomads, and tourists rely on VOA and e-VOA extensions to explore the beauty of Sumatra, from the jungles of Bukit Lawang to the beaches of Lake Toba or the surf spots in Aceh. With the new biometric regulation, it’s essential to plan ahead and understand the new process to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
📌 Summary of the New Visa Rules for Indonesia (Effective June 1, 2025):
- In-person immigration office visit required for all visa extensions
- Applies to VOA, e-VOA, ITK, KITAS, and ITAS holders
- Online and remote extensions no longer accepted
- Biometric data collection now mandatory
✈️ Discover Sumatra – Your Local Travel Experts
At Discover Sumatra, we specialize in helping travelers enjoy a safe, smooth, and unforgettable experience in Indonesia. Stay up to date with the latest visa regulations, travel tips, and local insights by following our blog or contacting us directly. Read our comprehensive guide on visa for Sumatra.
For personalized travel support and Indonesia visa extension guidance, reach out to us anytime – we’re here to help you discover the magic of Sumatra with peace of mind. Get in touch.
Photo by Kit (formerly ConvertKit) on Unsplash
