In a bid to enhance traveler experience and streamline immigration processes, officials in Bali have rolled out state-of-the-art auto-gates at the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. These automated gates are set to revolutionize the way tourists navigate through immigration, marking a significant step towards returning to pre-pandemic norms.

The Director General of Immigration for Indonesia, Silmy Karim, addressed reporters, highlighting the transformative impact of the new auto-gates. "Immigration checks use autogate integrated facial recognition and border control management technology," Karim stated, underscoring the efficiency and security benefits of the system.

The utilization of facial recognition technology coupled with border control management systems ensures swift processing times, with immigration inspections at the auto-gates taking a mere 15-25 seconds. However, eligibility for utilizing these facilities is restricted to tourists possessing electronic passports and valid visas prior to their arrival in Bali.

Karim emphasized that travelers with an ASEAN passport and those who have secured an eVisa-on-Arrival can also benefit from the auto-gates after registering their passport at evisa.immigration.go.id. This streamlined process aims to expedite immigration procedures while maintaining robust security measures.

To utilize the auto-gates, travelers must adhere to simple guidelines, including ensuring clear visibility of their faces and placing the biodata page of their passport on the scanner. Karim assured reporters that the system seamlessly verifies travelers, cross-referencing data with Interpol to prevent the entry of wanted criminals.

Suhendra, the Head of the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office, lauded the impact of the auto-gates on airport operations, noting a significant improvement in efficiency since their installation. Between February 1st and March 4th, over 112,000 tourists utilized the auto-gates, with Australians, Chinese, South Koreans, Americans, Japanese, British, Malaysians, and Singaporeans among the top users.

The success of the initial deployment has paved the way for plans to install 80 auto-gates across the airport, with further installations scheduled for both arrivals and departures terminals. As Bali Airport aims to enhance traveler convenience and adapt to the digital age, tourists are encouraged to apply for the e-Visa on Arrival in advance to expedite the immigration process.

As Indonesia embraces digitalization in immigration procedures, the introduction of auto-gates represents a significant milestone in facilitating seamless travel experiences for tourists visiting the picturesque island of Bali.