Legal Advice on the Validity and Application of APEC Business Travel Card (APEC BTC) for Entry into Indonesia
The APEC Business Travel Card (APEC BTC) is a facility provided by APEC member countries to facilitate business travel among member countries. In Indonesia, foreign businesspeople holding the APEC BTC can enter Indonesia without a visa for legitimate business purposes.
Based on Minister of Law and Human Rights Regulation No. 26 of 2016 (Permenkumham 26/2016), the issuance and use of the APEC BTC is strictly regulated. Article 2, paragraph (1), letter a confirms that the card is granted to businesspersons who frequently undertake business trips to APEC member countries, either within or outside Indonesia.
The APEC BTC cannot be used for tourism, employment, permanent residence, or other non-business activities. APEC BTC holders wishing to visit Indonesia for non-business purposes, such as tourism or social visits, must obtain an appropriate visa, e.g., Visa on Arrival (VOA).
Additionally, Indonesian authorities may still require compliance with local regulations, such as reporting obligations or special permits, depending on the nature of the business activity. Therefore, while the APEC BTC simplifies entry, it does not exempt holders from full compliance with Indonesian law.
Conclusion / Takeaway:
The APEC BTC is valid for business entry into Indonesia only. Cardholders must ensure full compliance with the applicable laws to avoid legal complications. Non-business visits require a visa or permit appropriate to the purpose of the visit.

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