Enjoying a holiday amid vast white snowfields, skiing, or simply sipping hot chocolate in a snowy city is a dream for many Indonesian travelers. Unfortunately, visa application processes often become the main obstacle to realizing this winter getaway.
The good news is that several snowy countries open their doors wide for Indonesian passport holders without the hassle of visa applications. From stunning natural landscapes to unique winter cultures, these destinations offer holiday experiences comparable to popular European or American countries.
Which snowy countries can Indonesian passport holders visit visa-free?
Turkey
Turkey allows Indonesian travelers to visit visa-free for tourism or transit purposes for up to 30 days since 2021. Located between Europe and Asia, Turkey offers captivating winter charm from December to early March, especially in areas like Cappadocia, Erzurum, and Uludağ.
Cappadocia features hot air balloons floating over snowy landscapes, Uludağ near Bursa is a skiing paradise, and Istanbul offers winter magic with snow-covered historic mosques and romantic streets.
Serbia
Serbia grants visa-free entry for up to 30 days, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to experience snow in Europe without complicated paperwork. From December to March, Serbia transforms into a snowy wonderland, with places like Kopaonik popular for skiing and snowboarding.
Historic cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad remain charming under snow blankets, blending Balkan culture, classic architecture, and a warm atmosphere suitable for solo travelers or families.
South Korea (Jeju Island)
While main South Korean regions like Seoul and Busan require visas for Indonesians, Jeju Island allows visa-free entry for up to 30 days for Indonesian visitors arriving directly at Jeju International Airport.
Visitors must remain within Jeju during their stay and are not permitted to travel to other parts of South Korea.
Jeju Island boasts stunning snowy scenery, especially around Hallasan Mountain—the highest peak in Korea—covered with thick snow from December to March. The island is also known for frozen waterfalls, snow-framed beaches, and a peaceful environment away from city noise.
Kazakhstan
This Central Asian country grants 30-day visa-free entry to Indonesian passport holders. From November to April, Kazakhstan becomes a snowy fairy tale land, especially in mountainous regions like Almaty and Shymbulak.
In Almaty, visitors enjoy a perfect blend of snowy natural beauty and a modern city rich with Central Asian culture. Kazakhstan also offers winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and views of the frozen Kaindy Lake.
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is another recommended destination for Indonesian travelers who want to experience winter without visa hassles. This Central Asian nation offers a unique combination of snow beauty and rich Silk Road cultural heritage.
During winter (December to early February), cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara are covered in snow, creating stunning landscapes framed by majestic Islamic architecture.
Indonesian passport holders can stay visa-free for up to 30 days, making travel to this historic land easier and more affordable. Besides snow, visitors can explore traditional markets, taste local dishes like plov, and visit captivating historical sites.
Belarus
Visa-free travel to Belarus is valid only for Indonesian travelers arriving at Minsk National Airport. This policy does not apply to those traveling to or from Russia.
Located in Eastern Europe, Belarus is known for its breathtaking winter landscapes—from snow-covered pine forests to frozen lakes. Winter in cities like Minsk offers a classic European vibe with Soviet-style buildings, Christmas markets, and warm cuisine.
Visitors can stay up to 30 days visa-free, allowing them to enjoy European winter charm without the complex administrative procedures common in other European countries.
Japan (Visa Waiver Program)
Since 2014, Japan has facilitated Indonesian tourist visits with a visa waiver program, but it is limited to holders of e-passports. Although called a “visa waiver,” registration through the Visa Waiver program is required.
This allows travelers to enjoy Japan’s winter charm for up to 15 days without the need for a traditional visa application, which is typically more complicated.
The best place to enjoy snow from December to February is Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. Here, tourists can experience winter festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival and ski in Niseko.
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