The Government of Indonesia, through the Ministry of Tourism, now requires all accommodation businesses — including hotels, villas, guest houses, homestays, and similar lodging providers — to complete official business registration through the Ministry’s system. This requirement applies especially to businesses marketed through Online Travel Agent (OTA) platforms.

This policy forms part of the government’s broader effort to improve governance within the tourism sector and to ensure that all operators comply with risk-based licensing regulations in force.

Why This Registration Matters

This registration is not merely administrative. It is a regulatory verification mechanism designed to ensure that every accommodation business operating and being promoted online:

  • holds valid business licenses
  • operates under the correct KBLI classification
  • is officially recorded in the national system

The registration form uses data based on the Business Identification Number (NIB) and KBLI classification, and the system automatically checks licensing compliance before further verification by OTAs and the Ministry of Tourism.

Proof of Compliance: “Registered and Licensed” Label

Businesses that successfully complete registration and verification will receive an official label:

“Registered and Licensed”

This label serves as formal proof of legality and helps increase consumer trust in accommodation providers listed on OTA platforms.

From a business perspective, this also helps:

  • strengthen credibility
  • enhance brand reputation
  • facilitate partnerships with distributors and investors

Important Deadline

The Ministry of Tourism has set the final deadline for compliance:

31 March 2026

Businesses that are not verified by this date may no longer be displayed on OTA platforms, which can directly impact visibility, bookings, and revenue.

Government Initiative to Standardize the Tourism Industry

This registration policy is part of a broader governmental initiative to establish stronger standards across Indonesia’s tourism industry. Through centralized verification, the government aims to ensure:

  • fair competition among operators
  • better consumer protection
  • stronger legal certainty for investors

In essence, this regulation is not merely a compliance requirement — it represents a structural step toward a more professional, transparent, and globally trusted tourism ecosystem.

Assistance for Businesses

For businesses experiencing difficulties during the registration process, the Ministry provides support through:

  • official coaching clinics
  • designated helpdesk assistance

These support measures are intended to help businesses complete compliance properly and on time.

Conclusion

Accommodation business registration is now a critical legal obligation for tourism operators. Beyond regulatory compliance, it is also a strategic step to maintain digital distribution access and strengthen market trust.

The sooner your business is registered, the more secure your position will be in Indonesia’s digital tourism ecosystem.

Denpasar, 17 February 2026

 

by Dipo Farizi (Legal Partner)