Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno announced the decision on Saturday, expressing the hope that the new policy would help revive Bali's tourism and create new economic opportunities for locals.

"It's official, as instructed by President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo, Bali is launching a quarantine-free travel trial for international travelers who have been fully vaccinated or have received booster shots, starting on March 7," Sandiaga wrote on Instagram. "We're optimistic that [the new policy] will bring more job and business opportunities for residents."

Under the new entry rules, international visitors who wish to travel to Bali without quarantine must book at least a four-night stay at a local hotel and must take at least three PCR tests, one before departure, one upon arrival, and one on the third day of their visit.

Those who test positive for COVID-19 must isolate themselves in their hotel rooms until they test negative for the virus. However, elderly patients and those with comorbidities must be admitted to local hospitals.

The government initially planned to begin the quarantine-free travel scheme next week, but decided to implement it earlier following a request from Bali Governor I Wayan Koster.

Read also: Bali to trial quarantine-free international arrivals this month