印尼6月中旬签证调整与进口红灯严查：政策解析与应对策略

Indonesia's Visa Adjustment and Import "Red Light" Crackdown in Mid-June: Policy Analysis and Response Strategies

In June 2025, the Indonesian government simultaneously advanced two major policy reforms—the full implementation of new on-site visa extension regulations and a special "red light" inspection campaign on imports. These policies, led by the Immigration Department and Customs respectively, have a profound impact on Chinese enterprises operating in Indonesia, expatriate employees, and foreign trade practitioners. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the key policy points and offer practical response recommendations.

I. New Visa Extension Regulations: Mandatory Biometric Data Collection

Starting June 1, 2025, Indonesia’s Immigration Department has rolled out new on-site visa extension regulations nationwide, requiring all applicants to appear in person or through an authorized agent to complete biometric data collection. This policy is a core component of Indonesia’s "Digital Immigration System 2.0" plan, aimed at combating visa fraud and overstaying issues.

Key Policy Contents

1. Changes in Application Process: Online processing channels have been canceled. All types of visa extensions (including business visas, work visas, etc.) must now be submitted in person, with payment made on-site, along with blue-background photo (35×45mm) capture and fingerprint scanning.
2. Increased Time Costs: Processing time has extended from the previous fast online processing to 7-10 working days, with on-site procedures typically taking 1-2 hours.
3. Stricter Documentation Requirements: Additional documents such as notarized power of attorney (for proxy applications) and company business license copies (with official seal) are now required, with stricter authenticity checks by immigration authorities.
4. Higher Penalties for Violations: Overstaying a visa by more than 7 days may result in fines of up to IDR 5 million (~USD 350), while severe overstays could lead to visa cancellation, requiring reapplication.

Direct Impact on Businesses and Individuals

• Time Management Pressure: Companies must conduct thorough checks on employees’ visa expiration dates and plan batch processing; individuals must schedule appointments 1-2 weeks in advance.
• Increased Operational Costs: Frequent visits to immigration offices raise labor costs, driving up demand for professional agency services.
• Heightened Compliance Risks: Incomplete documentation may cause delays, leading to overstay risks.

II. Import "Red Light" Crackdown: Strengthened Trade Protection

At the same time, Indonesian Customs launched its strictest-ever "red light" inspection campaign in mid-June, implementing unprecedented checks on imported goods at all ports. This action follows data from the Ministry of Trade revealing significant discrepancies in declared values of imported textiles, garments, electronics, and other goods (USD 360 million vs. USD 116 million).

Key Crackdown Measures

1. Higher Tariff Barriers: Safeguard tariffs of 100%-200% imposed on footwear, ceramics, and other imported products to protect domestic industries.
2. Special Task Force Established: Dedicated to cracking down on gray-market or illegal imports of textiles, electronics, footwear, and cosmetics.
3. Mandatory Standard Certification: 16 industrial products, including prestressed steel wire, valves, and tiles, now require mandatory Indonesian National Standards (SNI) certification.
4. Unprecedented Inspection Intensity: All ports are on "red light" alert, with 100% inspection rates for high-risk goods, potentially extending clearance times to several months.

Challenges for Import-Export Enterprises

• Time Costs: Prolonged customs clearance delays may disrupt delivery schedules.
• Financial Pressure: High tariffs and potential fines significantly increase operational costs.
• Compliance Risks: Discrepancies in documentation or cargo descriptions may result in severe penalties.

III. Comprehensive Response Strategies

Visa Extension Regulation Solutions

For Businesses:

1. Conduct Immediate Visa Audits: Establish a visa management system and prioritize extensions for visas expiring in June or later.
2. Engage Professional Agencies: Opt for full-service agents offering "document pre-check + on-site processing + progress tracking," such as QianDao Enterprise’s 1-hour fast pre-check service.
3. Batch Processing: Schedule monthly bulk visa processing to minimize resource dispersion.

For Individuals:

1. Book Appointments Early: Schedule via the Immigration Department’s official website (https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id) or through agencies to ensure complete documentation.
2. Monitor Policy Updates: Regularly check official immigration websites and authoritative media for the latest information.

Navigating the Import "Red Light" Period

1. Pre-Shipment Research: Confirm whether goods are on the "red light" list with Indonesian buyers and stay updated on customs policies.
2. Optimize Trade Methods: For clients without import licenses or limited qualifications, use Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) models with reliable agents.
3. Negotiate Logistics Terms: Request 14-day free demurrage periods when booking shipments to mitigate clearance delays.
4. Pre-Shipment Inspections: Conduct SGS inspections for sensitive goods like LED lights and machinery before loading.
5. Ensure Document Consistency: Guarantee that cargo details match packing lists, invoices, and bills of lading precisely.
6. Verify FORM E Certificates: Double-check ASEAN Certificate of Origin details to avoid clearance issues due to formatting errors.

IV. Risk Warnings and Special Notes

1. Transition Period Risks: System adjustments in June may cause temporary disruptions; non-urgent visa extensions may be postponed to July.
2. Customs Auction Risks: Indonesian ports mandate tax payments within 30 days; overdue shipments may be auctioned without return options.
3. Dual Compliance Pressure: Companies facing both visa and customs reforms must coordinate cross-border personnel and logistics planning.
4. Reporting Channels: If encountering bribery demands, retain evidence and report to Indonesia’s Ministry of Law and Human Rights or the Chinese Embassy/Consulate.

V. Policy Trend Outlook

Indonesia’s simultaneous tightening of immigration and import policies reflects the Jokowi administration’s push for economic sovereignty and domestic industry protection. According to The Jakarta Post, this may signal the new government’s post-election economic direction. Chinese enterprises in Indonesia are advised to:

1. Accelerate Localization: Partner with local firms or establish direct investments to bypass trade barriers.
2. Strengthen Compliance Systems: Hire legal consultants, conduct regular policy training, and incorporate compliance costs into budgets.
3. Diversify Markets: Mitigate risks by reducing over-reliance on the Indonesian market.

As Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Indonesia offers both market potential and policy risks. Only by accurately grasping policy trends and proactively ensuring compliance can businesses navigate this dynamic market successfully.