Indonesia Immigration Explains How Israeli Citizens Can Enter Through Third Countries

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has clarified the procedures for Israeli citizens seeking entry, addressing social media discussions fueled by pro-Palestine activists.

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We have a mechanism for what we classify as countries requiring specific visa validation. For them, visa issuance must be based on verification by other ministries and agencies.

Eko Budianto, Director of Visas and Travel Documents, outlined two primary pathways for Israelis. The first involves a stringent visa application process that requires verification and approval from various Indonesian ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the State Intelligence Agency (BIN), and the National Police. "The verification does not come solely from immigration, nor does the approval," Budianto stated.

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The verification does not come solely from immigration, nor does the approval.

The second route allows Israeli citizens to enter Indonesia if they hold passports from other nations where they possess dual citizenship. Budianto noted that while Indonesia adheres to a single citizenship principle, dual nationality is internationally recognized. He explained that immigration verification focuses on nationality, not place of birth.

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What gets verified or checked is our nationality, not our place of birth. After all, one could be born in America but actually hold Indonesian citizenship.

Data from Indonesia's Immigration Management Information System (SIMKIM) revealed that while very few Israelis successfully entered through the standard visa process, a number had arrived using passports from third countries. "When we cross-checked our SIMKIM data... we found individuals using Portuguese passports, followed by German and Greek passports," Budianto said. These individuals entered using passports from countries whose citizens are permitted to enter under existing visa arrangements.

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When we cross-checked our SIMKIM data, specifically by verifying names and alphabetical listings, we found individuals using Portuguese passports, followed by German and Greek passports.