DILI, 24 february 2026 (TATOLI) – The National Parliament of Timor-Leste has unanimously approved Draft Resolution No. 50/VI/3 on Timor-Leste’s accession to the ASEAN Visa Exemption Framework, a key step in the country’s regional integration process.
During a plenary session, Vice Minister for ASEAN Affairs, Milena Rangel, together with the technical team, presented the resolution to the National Parliament. The resolution received full support, with 56 votes in favour, none against, and no abstentions.
“This milestone demonstrates the National Parliament’s strong commitment to Timor-Leste’s integration into the ASEAN community,” the Vice Minister said. “It represents an important step toward enhancing mobility, people-to-people connectivity, and regional cooperation,” said in a statement.
The ASEAN Visa Exemption Framework Agreement, signed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on July 25, 2006, establishes a framework to facilitate travel within the region by exempting citizens of Member States from visa requirements for stays of up to 14 days.
This measure aims to promote regional mobility, tourism, people-to-people exchanges, and the strengthening of relations among the region’s peoples.
The Agreement also provides that each Member State may grant visa exemptions for periods longer than 14 days, in accordance with its national legislation and/or bilateral agreements, thereby ensuring flexibility in defining its migration policies.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
