Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Directorate General of Immigration launched the Sport Visa program on Tuesday (14/4/2026) to bolster Indonesia’s national sports ecosystem by providing foreign athletes and officials with simplified administrative procedures and expedited airport clearance.

“This support is part of Immigration’s role as a facilitator for potential growth sectors, including sports,” said Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko while officiating the partnership with national basketball federations as reported by antaranews.com.

A specialized cross-directorate team now manages the Sport Visa (Index C8A) and official visa (Index C8B) to ensure an adaptive, efficient process for the evolving sportainment industry. Between January and March 2026, the department issued 866 visas, building on the 6,388 permits granted last year.

Beyond digital applications via the e-visa portal, international athletes benefit from dedicated fast-track lanes and autogate technology at major airports. These facilities aim to maintain athlete performance by eliminating administrative fatigue as Indonesia prepares to host upcoming FIBA world tournaments.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)