In a move to modernize immigration services and improve the travel experience, Indonesia’s Minister of Immigration of Correctional Affairs, Agus Andrianto inaugurated 30 new autogate units at Kualanamu International Airport, North Sumatra, on Monday, June 24, 2025. With this launch, Kualanamu becomes the fifth immigration checkpoint in the country to implement autogate technology, following Soekarno-Hatta, Ngurah Rai, Harbour Bay Batam, and Juanda airports.
Faster, Automated Immigration Process in Kualanamu
The newly launched autogates at Kualanamu International Airport are divided into two operational areas: 20 units installed at the international arrivals section, while 10 units are designated for international departures. This distribution is intended to accommodate the higher volume of incoming passengers while still ensuring efficient processing for outbound travelers.
Autogates can scan e-passports or e-visas and verify biometric data in approximately 10-15 seconds per traveler. Significantly cutting down wait times. Despite the rapid processing, the system integrates with watch-list databases. That includes interpol and national travel bans to maintain security standards.
Average daily crossings at Kualanamu reach about 6,700 entries and exits, with an average of 45 flights per day between January and May 2025. The airport serves international routes to Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and seasonal Hajj flights to Saudi Arabia.
“Autogates will greatly assist the immigration inspection process, making it more effective and efficient. It only takes 10–15 seconds per person. Although the process is very fast, inspections using autogates remain secure because they use the latest technology integrated with the watchlist system, even Interpol. And it’s not just Indonesian citizens, autogates can also be used by foreigners who have electronic passports and an Indonesian eVisa,” said Minister Agus to reporters on Wednesday (June 25, 2025).
Kualanamu’s Support for Migrant Workers
Simultaneously, Minister Agus Andrianto opened a new PMI Lounge dedicated to Indonesian migrant workers. The lounge offers enhanced waiting facilities and services tailored to their needs. This act reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of overseas workers.
Boosting Tourism and Security
In his remarks, Minister Agus highlighted several expected benefits of the autogate rollout:
- Enhanced passenger satisfaction through faster processing
- Improved resource allocation, allowing officers to focus on higher-risk cases
- Stronger border security via integrated biometric and watch-list checks
- Support for tourism and investment by presenting a modernized entry experience
Agus also noted Medan’s strategic location near the Malacca Strait as ideal for expanding autogate operations. Given the city’s role as North Sumatra’s economic, governmental, and trade center.
“By combining speed, convenience, and security, this system is expected to improve passenger satisfaction with immigration services while also strengthening oversight of cross-border movements,” said Agus.
Sources: detik.com, posaceh.com, medanposonline.com. Featured Image.
