Indonesia tourism 2025 goals with VFS Global partnership, e-VoA for UK visitors, and Bali travel surge: Know what Tourism 5.0 is all about

Published on September 6, 2025

Indonesia VFS Global tourism tie-up boosts e-VoA for UK, fast-track travel to Bali, Jakarta and beyond—this announcement signals a major step to attract travelers from the United Kingdom with a smoother e-Visa on Arrival process. The updated platform lets UK visitors apply online, upload documents, pay fees, and receive a visa before departure. This means they avoid queues at airports and seaports, including Bali and Jakarta. The change supports the Ministry of Tourism’s Wonderful Indonesia campaign, which highlights both natural beauty and cultural richness.

With international arrivals reaching 13.9 million in 2024—a 19 percent rise compared to 2023—the government has now set higher targets of 14.6 to 16 million visitors for 2025. The UK, already among Indonesia’s top source markets, is seen as a vital partner. This initiative combines digital innovation with global promotion, making travel easier while showcasing Indonesia as more than just a beach holiday.

Indonesia’s e-VoA platform with VFS Global

The e-Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) is now available to citizens of 97 countries, including the United Kingdom. This service was developed with VFS Global, which also provides digital visa solutions for other countries worldwide. The new system allows UK tourists to apply before departure, get approval online, and enter Indonesia smoothly without needing to stand in long immigration lines.

For many travelers, this is a time-saver at major international airports such as Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai and Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta. The platform represents Indonesia’s aim to modernize border services while strengthening its tourism infrastructure.

Tourism growth and ambitious targets

Indonesia’s tourism industry has recovered strongly after pandemic lows. The 13.9 million arrivals in 2024 marked the highest in five years, representing a 19 percent rise over 2023. With the recovery on track, officials now aim to attract between 14.6 and 16 million visitors in 2025.

Neighbouring countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Australia remain the largest contributors, but the UK ranks among Europe’s strongest markets. In fact, 340,000 UK visitors arrived in 2024, showing strong demand for long-haul leisure travel to Indonesia.

UK tourism and seasonal trends

The UK market has been particularly dynamic. In December 2024, arrivals from the UK to Bali jumped by more than a third compared to the previous month. This reflects both peak holiday demand and stronger flight connectivity during the winter season.

Direct routes between London and Bali are still limited, but travelers can easily connect via hubs like Singapore, Doha, and Dubai. With the new e-VoA in place, the journey becomes more straightforward for holidaymakers planning longer stays in Bali, Lombok, Java, or beyond.

How the e-VoA works

The e-VoA is a single-entry visitor visa valid for a 30-day stay, with 90 days’ validity from the date of issue. Travellers can extend it once for another 30 days. Applications can be submitted up to 90 days before arrival, though applying at least 48 hours ahead of departure is recommended.

Basic requirements include:

• A passport valid for at least six months
• At least one blank page for stamping
• Proof of onward or return flight
• Digital payment of the visa fee

Once approved, the visa is delivered by email. Upon arrival, travelers can use e-gates or receive a visa sticker depending on the port of entry.

Linking digital services with Tourism 5.0

The Ministry of Tourism has linked its digital innovation drive to a broader “Tourism 5.0” vision. This focuses on using technology, including artificial intelligence and big data, to improve marketing reach, personalise visitor services, and smooth travel experiences. The e-VoA rollout is a practical step in this direction.

VFS Global, which operates in more than 160 countries, provides not just visa services but also destination marketing support. Through co-branding and international promotion, Indonesia gains visibility in key source markets, particularly Europe.

Beyond Bali: Diversifying tourism

Although Bali remains the most popular destination, Indonesia’s long-term plan emphasises diversification. Tourist development corridors like Lake Toba in Sumatra, Labuan Bajo in Flores, and Mandalika in Lombok are being marketed as alternatives to spread visitor flows. The new e-VoA system helps make these destinations more accessible, encouraging travelers to explore beyond the island of Bali.

Cultural attractions in Yogyakarta, natural wonders like Komodo National Park, and diving hotspots in Raja Ampat are also expected to benefit from the easier entry system.

A smart gateway to adventure

With more convenient entry, rising connectivity, and targeted marketing, the Indonesia–UK travel corridor is set for stronger growth in 2025. For UK tourists, the streamlined e-VoA brings peace of mind and saves time at airports. For Indonesia, it represents a balance between digital progress and the cultural charm that continues to attract global visitors.

The partnership is more than a visa update—it is a strategic step to make Wonderful Indonesia shine brighter on the world stage.