The European Union (EU) has made it easier for citizens of Indonesia to acquire multiple-entry visas from their second application. Overall, this development marks a policy shift with the finalization of the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA).
Multi-Entry Visa for Indonesia
The announcement came during Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto’s Brussels trip, where he met with EU Commissioner President Ursula von der Leyen. Both leaders confirmed the visa easing policy as part of broader trade and diplomatic cooperation.
Previously, travelers from Indonesia typically only received single-entry Schengen visas with limited validity. As a result, frequent travelers had to reapply and repeat documentation for each trip.
However, the new policy offers easier travel access for returning visitors, especially businesspeople, tourists, students, and professionals. Moreover, the EU and the Indonesian government expect it to significantly reduce administrative burden and travel costs.
Landmark Indonesia & EU Deal
The visa development comes amid accelerated negotiations over the IEU-CEPA, a trade deal long in the works. In fact, talks began in 2016 and have spanned 16 negotiation rounds.
“We consider Europe very important to us. That is why we would like to see more European presence and more European participation in our economy,” remarked Prabowo.
Notably, the EU is Indonesia’s fifth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at over €30.1 billion in 2024. In particular, Indonesia exports palm oil, footwear, and electrical equipment to Europe while importing machinery, chemicals, and dairy products.
Multi-Entry System for Indonesia
The new system follows a “visa cascade” model, which the EU previously used for countries like India and Saudi Arabia. Correspondingly, citizens of Indonesia who obtain a first Schengen visa and comply with its terms are eligible for a multi-entry visa on future visits.
Specifically, the visa will allow multiple entries valid for up to five years, depending on the traveler’s profile and compliance. Notably, the policy applies to all 29 Schengen member states.
Moreover, the move supports the EU’s strategy to boost people-to-people connections with key Indo-Pacific partners. Authorities also expect the change to drive student exchange programs, tourism, and startup collaborations.
Official Statements
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated, “We’re both vibrant and diverse democracies. As a matter of fact, we found out that Indonesia’s national motto is unity in diversity and one of our core sentences in the EU is united in diversity. So, we share common values and ambitions.”
Meanwhile, officials of Indonesia have welcomed the policy, calling it a “historic breakthrough” in modernizing visa systems.
Moreover, easier access will benefit frequent travelers, particularly those in business and academia.
Additionally, a reduction in reapplication efforts could free up embassy resources and improve processing efficiency. For instance, a multiple-entry visa saves travelers from reapplying for each visit, cutting paperwork and embassy appointments.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the Schengen easing is seen as a stepping stone toward greater mobility and partnership between EU and Indonesia.
If IEU-CEPA goes according to plan, further visa waivers or fast-track services may likely follow.
Photo by Maximalfocus on Unsplash
