Immigration: APEC Business Travel Card applications can now be submitted online
Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Directorate General of Immigration of the Ministry of Immigration and Human Rights says that the APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) for Indonesian citizens can now be applied for via a website. Acting Director General Yuldi Yusman explained that the ABTC update for Indonesian citizens has been integrated into the digital platform abtc.imigrasi.go.id, replacing the previous system of physical document submission and mail that was deemed inefficient.
“Thus, the ABTC application process is faster and more transparent,” Yuldi said in a formal statement received in Jakarta on Friday.
The ABTC is a strategic facility that facilitates business travel for Indonesian businesspeople to APEC member states. Its main benefit is that applicants no longer need to apply for a visa each time they travel.
“ABTC also supports an improved investment climate and international economic cooperation. With ABTC, cardholders gain visa-free access to 19 APEC member countries as well as access to dedicated lanes at international airports,” he added.
The services available on the website include new ABTC applications, card replacements, and data updates for Indonesian citizens who meet the criteria as businesspeople, government officials, or certain professionals.
Online ABTC processing starts with account registration on abtc.imigrasi.go.id by filling in profile data and uploading identity documents. Activation is performed via a link sent to the registered email address.
After logging in, applicants select the ABTC menu. The system will display the application form that must be completed according to the category of request, including new, replacement, or data update.
Then, upload supporting documents in accordance with the requirements, such as a recommendation letter from the relevant agency or business association, a valid passport, and a recent photo.
Next, make the payment for the non-tax state revenue (PNBP) via the Online PNBP System (Simponi). After payment is validated, the application will proceed to verification by immigration officers.
Following payment, applicants are asked to complete a brief survey as part of the administrative process. If the application is approved, the card will be issued either as a virtual card or information on the readiness of a physical card will be sent by post.
Yuldi noted that digitising ABTC services is part of the Directorate General of Immigration’s effort to remove bureaucratic obstacles so business players can move faster and focus on international expansion without administrative constraints.
“This process also ensures a more transparent, certain, and accountable process for all applicants,” he said.