Jakarta. The Directorate General of Immigration is preparing a fast-track service for foreign athletes competing in international sporting events, aiming to deliver a faster, more seamless arrival experience at the country’s entry points.

Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko said on Sunday that a dedicated task force will be established to simplify administrative procedures for incoming athletes.

“One of immigration’s roles is as a facilitator, including in the sports sector. We want to provide convenience from the moment they arrive,” Hendarsam said.

The service will include fast-track lanes at airports, allowing athletes to bypass long queues, as well as streamlined administrative processes supported by more efficient digital applications.

The policy comes amid a growing number of foreign players participating in Indonesia’s domestic competitions, including the BRI Super League, the Indonesian Basketball League, and the Proliga volleyball competition.

In the latest season, clubs in the BRI Super League are allowed to sign up to 11 foreign players, while the Indonesian Basketball League permits three foreign players to be fielded simultaneously in a single game.

Hendarsam added that the initiative will not be limited to sports but will also be expanded to sectors such as arts, culture, and science, which are seen as having strong potential to boost economic growth and enhance Indonesia’s global image.

“We want to present a welcoming and professional face of Indonesia, while maintaining immigration’s authority as the guardian of the nation’s gateway,” he said.

Despite the added convenience, oversight of foreign athletes will remain in place, particularly for those entering the country for short-term events compared with athletes contracted by Indonesian clubs.

The special task force will also support major international events hosted in Indonesia, including the MotoGP Mandalika and international exhibition matches at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium.

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