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Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Indonesia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Indonesia due to  terrorism and natural disasters.  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not travel to:

• The provinces of Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) due to civil unrest.

Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in Indonesia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting police stations, places of worship, hotels, bars, nightclubs, markets/shopping malls, and restaurants.

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis or volcanic eruptions may result in disruptions to transportation, infrastructure, sanitation, and the availability of health services.

Demonstrations occur frequently and have the potential to become violent.  Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 

Indonesia’s revised criminal code, which takes effect January 2026, includes penalties for defamation, blasphemy, cohabitation, and sex outside of marriage. It is unclear how Indonesian authorities will implement the revised criminal code.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Indonesia.  

If you decide to travel to Indonesia:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. 
• Visit the websites for  Badan Geologi  (Indonesian Geological Agency, Indonesian language only) for the latest information from the Government of Indonesia on current natural disasters.
• Review the  CDC’s suggestions on how to prepare for natural disasters.
• Be aware of your personal safety and security at all times. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• Follow the Department of State Facebook  and Twitter .  Follow the U.S. Embassy Jakarta on Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report  for Indonesia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Central Papua and Highland Papua– Level 4: Do Not Travel

In Central Papua and Highland Papua, violent demonstrations and conflict could result in injury or death to U.S. citizens. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Armed separatists may kidnap foreign nationals.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Central Papua and Highland Papua as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization before traveling to those areas.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months beyond arrival date. Indonesia does not accept the 12-page U.S. emergency passport for entry into Indonesia.

Two blank visa pages required for entry stamp

Yes, Visa or Visa on Arrival

100,000,000 Indonesian rupia (approx. $7,000 USD)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy jakarta.

Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan No. 3 - 5 Jakarta 10110, Indonesia Telephone: +(62)(21) 5083-1000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(62)(21) 5083-1000 ext. 0 (operator) Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Surabaya Jl. Citra Raya Niaga No. 2 Surabaya 60217 Indonesia Telephone: +(62)(31) 297-5300 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(62)(811) 334-183 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Bali Jalan Hayam Wuruk 310, Denpasar, Bali Telephone: +(62)(361) 233-605 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Consulate in Surabaya:+(62)(811) 334-183 Email:  [email protected]

American Consulate Medan, Sumatra Uni Plaza Building 4th Floor (West Tower) Jl. Let. Jend. MT Haryono A-1 Medan 20231, Indonesia Telephone: +(62)(61) 451-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(62)(61) 451-9000 Email:  [email protected]

The U.S. Consulate in Medan provides only emergency assistance to U.S. citizens and does not offer routine consular services.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Indonesia for information on U.S.- Indonesia relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Entry Requirements:  To enter Indonesia, your passport must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your arrival in Indonesia. If your passport does not meet these requirements, you will be denied entry into Indonesia. The Government of Indonesia will not admit travelers holding the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas.

Visa-on-Arrival:  If you meet the requirements, you can apply for a visa on arrival at some international airports, seaports, or land crossings. To apply for the visa on arrival, you must have an ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter and the date you plan to leave Indonesia and a return or onward flight booking to another country. There is a 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah fee (about $35). The visa on arrival is valid for up to 30 days. You may extend a Visa-on-Arrival once at the immigration office one week before it expires for an additional 30 days for a maximum of 30 additional days, for another 500,000 Rupiah.

• Official visit or government duties;
• Business meeting;
• Procurement of goods;
• Official meeting; or

Electronic Visa-On-Arrival:  You may also apply for an electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) in advance if you are entering Indonesia at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta or Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali. Check the e-VOA requirements from Indonesian Immigration before applying. To apply for an e-VOA see  https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/ .

Visa:  Travel for more than 30 days and travel for non-VOA purposes, including employment and journalism, requires that the appropriate visa be obtained from an Indonesian embassy or consulate before arrival. If you are traveling on an emergency passport, you must obtain a visa before arrival in Indonesia.

If you overstay your visa, you are subject to a fine of 1 million Indonesian rupiah (about $70 USD at current exchange rates; fees may change at any time) per day and may be detained and deported. U.S. citizens have been jailed for visa overstays or entering the country on the wrong visa class for their purpose of travel . Travelers coming to Indonesia for non-tourism purposes are strongly encouraged to consult Indonesian Immigration’s website. Travelers should generally carry a copy of their passport with them whenever possible to establish their identity and proof of Indonesian visa.

You must exit Indonesia using the same passport that you used to enter.  If this passport is replaced for any reason before you depart Indonesia, you must apply with Immigration to obtain a “special pass” (exit permit) in your new passport prior to departing.

Dual-Nationality:  Indonesia has laws that prohibit Indonesian citizens from holding additional nationalities. If you are an Indonesian with dual nationality, you could be compelled to renounce your Indonesian nationality through a formal act of renunciation. Please research Indonesian nationality laws and consult with a local attorney regarding any specific circumstance.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Indonesia. The Government of Indonesia screens incoming passengers in response to reported outbreaks of pandemic illnesses.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Extremists in Indonesia aspire to carry out violent attacks against Indonesian and foreign targets, and police have arrested more than 1,200 individuals on terrorism-related charges since 2018. Extremists may target both official and private establishments, including government offices, hotels, bars, nightclubs, shopping areas, restaurants, and places of worship. Be aware of your personal safety and security at all times.

Recent incidents of extremist violence include a December 2022 suicide bombing at a police station in Bandung, West Java that killed one police officer, a March 2021 bomb attack against a church in Makassar, South Sulawesi which injured 20 civilians, and May 2018 bomb attacks against three churches in Surabaya, East Java which killed 15 civilians and injured 50.

Demonstrations are very common in Jakarta, Surabaya, and other large cities, but less common in Bali. You should avoid demonstrations and other mass gatherings, since even those intended to be peaceful can become violent. U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in protests.  Demonstrations may become more frequent ahead of the Indonesian general elections scheduled for February 2024.

Currently, travel by U.S. government personnel to the provinces of Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) is restricted to mission-essential travel that is approved in advance by the Embassy. Papuan separatists have kidnapped foreigners in the past and a New Zealand national was kidnapped by a separatist group in Nduga Regency in February 2023.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime:   In the last year several American citizens were victims of violent and serious crimes in Indonesia, particularly in Bali. As with any major tourist destination, U.S. citizens traveling in Indonesia are especially encouraged to always remain vigilant of their surroundings and read the following advisories carefully. Take sensible measures to protect yourself and your belongings.  Closely monitor bags and luggage and carry only essential items. Take particular care of your passport and bank cards and avoid traveling alone.

Police presence and responsiveness is less than it is in the United States, making it more difficult to report crimes quickly and receive police attention. U.S. citizens often cite language barriers as a major hindrance when reporting crimes.

Pickpocketing, sexual assault, vehicle theft, armed car-jacking, snatch and grab robberies of cell phones and purses, and residential break-ins are common. Avoid traveling to isolated areas late at night. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly vehicles or individuals that might be following you.

Use a reputable taxi company or hire a taxi either at a major hotel or shopping center and ensure the driver’s identity card is visible. If you are booking a car via a mobile app, always ensure that the driver is the same as the person on the app, share your journey with a friend via the in-app option, and know the contact information for the app’s security center. Be aware of drivers falsely claiming to be registered with online ride hailing apps.

Credit card fraud is a common problem in Indonesia. Criminals have “skimmed” credit/debit cards to access and drain bank accounts. Use an ATM in a secure location, such as a major bank branch, and check the machine for evidence of tampering. Monitor your account statements regularly.

Tourists and Indonesians have suffered from serious illness and have even died from "drink-spiking” and drink poisoning incidents, particularly in clubs and nightspots in urban and tourist areas. There have been reports of sexual assaults and drink spiking in Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands.  Make sure drinks are prepared in your sight and be careful about accepting drinks from strangers at clubs and parties or leaving drinks unattended. Tourists have also been robbed after taking visitors to their hotel rooms, and in some cases have found that their drinks were spiked. There have also been deaths and serious illnesses caused by drinking alcoholic drinks contaminated with methanol. These cases have occurred in bars, shops, and hotels in popular tourist areas like Bali, Lombok, the Gili Islands, and Sumatra.

Sexual Assault:  Women travelling alone may be subject to harassment and verbal abuse. Sexual assault, harassment, and rape occur. To minimize the risk, avoid travelling alone, especially at night; remain particularly vigilant in less populous areas; and be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Local authorities may not respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to local authorities and to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate General.  

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Participating in demonstrations on a tourist visa can lead to deportation.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams occur in Indonesia. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/Relative targeting
• Free Trip/Luggage
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime:

Sexual assault:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should seek prompt medical assistance, contact the Embassy or nearest Consulate, and call the local police at 112. For a criminal investigation to be initiated by the police, the victim must make a full statement to the local police, in person.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault may choose to be accompanied by a translator.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution. Follow this link for more information
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism and recreational activity industries are unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  Water sports, especially diving, can be hazardous in Indonesia with operators lightly regulated and hyperbaric chambers available only in Bali and Ambon.  Traffic is hazardous in Indonesia and U.S. citizens are frequently injured while riding rented motorbikes. Wearing a helmet is required by law. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities, and only basic stabilization may be available. Serious injuries require medical evacuation to another country. First responders are generally unable to provide urgent medical treatment or to access areas outside of major cities. Boat and ferry incidents are frequent; vessels rarely carry appropriate sizes and numbers of safety vests; passengers are encouraged to bring their own. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage ( http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/health/insurance-providers.html ).

Please note:   The U.S. Embassy and Consulates do not pay the medical expenses of private U.S. citizens in Indonesia. It is the traveler’s responsibility to ensure adequate medical insurance coverage or funds for medical expenses.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to Indonesian laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Criminal cases can take months or even years to resolve, and suspects can be held without charges for up to 60 days, and in many cases longer. Indonesia‘s revised criminal code, which takes effect January 2026, includes penalties for defamation, blasphemy, cohabitation, and sex outside of marriage. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay up-to-date.

If you are convicted of possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs in Indonesia, you may be subject to heavy fines, long jail sentences, and even the death penalty. Some prescription medications that are available in the United States are illegal in Indonesia. Some drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are illegal in Indonesia. Marijuana, Cannabis, hash, “edibles,” and products containing CBD or THC remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation, or the death penalty. Illegal drug convictions often result in lengthy prison sentences, even at the simple possession level. Indonesian prison conditions are harsh and do not meet U.S. standards. Many prisons are overcrowded and provide minimal services. The costs of basic services, including healthcare, often must be borne by the prisoner.

Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• nternational Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  LGBTQI+ status or conduct is not illegal, but local authorities sometimes take legal action against, or tolerate harassment of people engaging in LGBTQI+ relationships or openly expressing LGBTQI+ identity. Some local governments have passed laws criminalizing LGBTQI+ relationships. Same-sex marriages or civil unions recognized as valid in other countries are not legally recognized in Indonesia. The Indonesian Parliament revised the criminal code to include penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions, however, will not come into force until January 2026, and how they will be implemented is unclear.

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details .

Sharia Law:   Sharia law is enforced in Aceh province and may exist unofficially or through local legislation in other areas. The law is intended for Muslims and should not apply to non-Muslims or foreign visitors. You should be respectful of local traditions, mindful of social norms, and seek guidance from local police if confronted by Sharia authorities. 

Earthquakes and Tsunamis:  There are approximately 4,000 earthquakes per year in Indonesia, or more than 10 per day on average. While most earthquakes are mild, some cause significant destruction and can trigger tsunamis. Tsunami warning systems may not be operable, or reports of tremors and tsunamis may be delayed. Local construction standards are lower than in the United States, and many structures including hotels and malls are prone to damage or collapse in an earthquake. Access to disaster-affected areas is often difficult and assistance from the U.S. Embassy may be limited.

If a major earthquake or landslide occurs close to shore, you should follow the instructions of local authorities, bearing in mind that a tsunami could arrive within minutes. The Indonesia Tsunami Early Warning Centre issues tsunami warnings when a potential tsunami with significant impact is imminent or expected.

Volcanoes:  There are 127 active volcanoes in Indonesia. Eruptions frequently cause travel delays, displace local populations, and disrupt economic activities. 

Environmental Quality:  Air quality in Indonesia’s major cities can range from "unhealthy for sensitive groups" to "unhealthy." Current air quality data for Jakarta can be found on the Embassy’s  Air Quality  page. Tap water is not potable throughout Indonesia and should not be consumed. 

Mountain Hiking:  When hiking in mountainous areas, obtain current information on local conditions, travel with a reputable guide, have overseas medical insurance, and carry a local mobile phone. Never go hiking or climbing alone. Particularly dangerous trails may not be clearly labeled as such. Hikers on Puncak Jaya in Papua should have realistic primary and backup plans for climbing down the mountain. Tour operators have abandoned climbers. Taking shortcuts through private property is considered trespassing and is not a safe or legal alternative to a proper plan. If possible, ensure your hiking plans are registered and known to local authorities and/or tourism operators, as this helps identify your presence in these areas in the event of an emergency. 

Dual Nationality:  Indonesian law does not recognize dual nationality for adults over 18 years of age. U.S. citizens who are also Indonesian nationals may be required to renounce their Indonesian citizenship and may also be deported.  Please visit our Dual Nationality page .

Travelers with Disabilities:  Persons with disabilities will face severe difficulties in Indonesia as most public places and transportation facilities do not accommodate disabled people. The law in Indonesia prohibits discrimination against persons with mental and physical disabilities, but the law is seldom enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be extremely limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:   Women traveling alone may be subject to harassment and verbal abuse. Sexual assault, harassment, and rape occur. To minimize the risk, avoid travelling alone, especially at night; remain particularly vigilant in less populous areas; and be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. While domestic violence is illegal in Indonesia, these laws are rarely enforced. Local authorities may not respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to local authorities and to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate General and seek medical attention. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

The Government of Indonesia requires all non-Indonesian citizens entering the country to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 

Medical Care:  For emergency services in Indonesia dial 112.

Sanitation and health care conditions in Indonesia are far below U.S. standards. Routine medical care is available in all major cities, although most expatriates leave the country for all but the most basic medical procedures. Physicians and hospitals often expect payment or sizable deposits before providing medical care, even in emergency and/or life-threatening situations. See our  Embassy's  website for a list of English-speaking doctors and hospitals, but keep in mind that even in large cities the quality of English-speaking medical personnel will vary and there are often communication difficulties. In remote areas there may be no English-speaking medical personnel. Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.

Ambulance services are not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Ambulances are not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:   Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation, which can exceed over $100,000 per person.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Be aware that Indonesian authorities may consider some prescription drugs as illegal narcotics. The Indonesian government does not publish a list of which pharmaceuticals are considered contraband, and these decisions may be arbitrary.

U.S. citizens are advised against mailing or shipping by courier any medications to Indonesia. Indonesian authorities pay close attention to packages containing pharmaceuticals and may detain or arrest recipients of both prescription and over the counter medications. Even if a medication is legal or has been prescribed in the United States, it may be considered an illegal narcotic in Indonesia. U.S. citizens are advised to only hand carry prescription medications into the country, in the original packaging with a copy of any prescription. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates cannot assist you with the importation and/or release of medications.  

Marijuana, Cannabis, hash, “edibles,” and products containing CBD or THC remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes.  A medical prescription does not make it legal.

Local pharmacies carry a range of products of variable quality, availability, and cost. Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a significant risk; patronize only reputable pharmacies. Malaria, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, and  Zika virus  are mosquito borne diseases in Indonesia.  Prevention of mosquito bites  is strongly encouraged; malaria preventive medication is needed in some areas. Pregnant women should be aware that Indonesia is a  CDC Zika risk area  and that Zika can be spread by mosquitos as well as  sexual contact . Diarrheal diseases are very common throughout Indonesia and  food and water precautions  are recommended. Rabies is prevalent in animals and animal contact should be avoided.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. See the OPTIONAL stock language below for additional suggestions.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Indonesia.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Indonesia.

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Water Quality

• Tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

General Health Language

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Tuberculosis
• Chikungunya
• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Indonesia.

Air Quality

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Indonesia. Consider the impact smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:
• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Traffic in Indonesia is hazardous, congested, and undisciplined. Traffic signals are frequently ignored and often in disrepair. Motor vehicles share the roads with other forms of transportation such as pedicabs and pushcarts. Buses and trucks are often dangerously overloaded and travel at high speeds. Accidents between a car and a motorcycle are viewed as the fault of the driver of the car. Consider these risks before driving your own vehicle, especially if you are unaccustomed to Indonesian road conditions.  When an accident results in personal injury, Indonesian law requires both drivers to await the arrival of a police officer to report the accident.

Public Transportation:   Air, ferry, and road accidents that result in fatalities, injuries, and significant damage are common. While all forms of transportation are regulated in Indonesia, oversight is spotty, maintenance may not be properly performed, and rescue and emergency capacity are limited. Indonesia has experienced several fatal plane crashes and non-fatal runway overruns in recent years. Also in recent years, several ferry accidents and a train collision resulted in dozens of fatalities and even more injuries because of over-crowding and unsafe conditions.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Also, visit  Indonesia's national tourist office  online for road safety information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Indonesia’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Indonesia’s air carrier operations.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Since 2014, several private pilots have inadvertently crossed into Indonesian airspace and have been detained and paid heavy fines. If you intend to fly on private aircraft through Indonesian airspace, get clearances from Indonesian aviation authorities before you depart. 

Maritime Safety and Security:   Inter-island travel by boat or ferry can be dangerous: storms can appear quickly, vessels may be over-crowded and lack basic safety equipment, and safety standards vary. Ferries have sunk, resulting in loss of life. The Indonesian Search and Rescue Agency records boat and ferry accidents resulting in injuries and deaths yearly. Boats and ferries used in tourism or general transportation frequently break down, stranding passengers or capsizing; not all boats are equipped with adequate life vests. Make sure you are satisfied with safety equipment and life jackets before travelling. 

Piracy:  Maritime piracy and other related crimes in and around Indonesian waters continue. Recent reports include thefts of valuables or cargo from boats that are in port and out at sea. Before traveling by sea, especially in the Strait of Malacca between Riau Province and Singapore, and in the waters north of Sulawesi and Kalimantan, review the current security situation with local authorities. Be vigilant, reduce opportunities for theft, establish secure areas on board, and report all incidents to the coastal and flag state authorities.

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Indonesia should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the  Maritime Administration website . Information may also be posted to the websites of the  U.S. Coast Guard  and the  National Geospace Intelligence Agency  (select “broadcast warnings”).

In recent years, private vessels have inadvertently anchored in Indonesian waters, especially near Singapore, and have been detained and paid heavy fines.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Indonesia . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Do I need a visa to go to Indonesia?

Apr 9, 2022 • 6 min read

Reaching Indonesia's beaches, volcanoes and reefs is easy, with visa-free travel for many nationalities © Mazur Travel / Shutterstock

Even without the complications of the pandemic, the rules for getting a visa for Indonesia have always been ever-changing and confusing. But it's a welcome sign that things are returning to normal fact that we’re asking the same old questions again: Do I need a visa for Indonesia? Is it free? Can I get a visa on arrival, and if so where? How long does it last? Can I get an extension?­­

For many tourists, travel to Indonesia means one thing ­– a holiday in Bali , the Island of the Gods and one of Southeast Asia’s best-loved tropical islands. Around 6.2 million tourists visited Bali in 2019, but this dropped to just 45 in 2021. Now, after some tough years for somewhere that relies so intrinsically on tourism, Bali is back open for business, and with it the rest of the archipelago.

There is, however, a bit more red tape to navigate than usual. Here's what you need to know about getting a visa for Indonesia.

Getting a visa on arrival in Bali

If you want to travel to Indonesia right now, Bali is by far the easiest place to visit. Not only can you get a 30-day Visa on Arrival (VOA), but quarantine regulations have been eased so you can pretty much get straight on with relaxing from the get-go. This is currently the only place in Indonesia where you can get a visa when you arrive.

The Visa on Arrival scheme is currently limited to 23 countries , including the UK, most Western European nations, many Middle Eastern countries, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and most Southeast Asia nations. However, there are plans to expand it to other nationalities, and to offer visas on arrival at other points of entry into Indonesia.

Visas for Bali are issued on arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar , for a fee of IDR500,000 (US$35), which you'll need to pay before you start queuing at the immigration counter. The entry permit can later be extended for 30 days, giving a total stay of 60 days.

You'll need to show proof of a return ticket (or an onward ticket from Bali to another destination), and you need six months of validity remaining in your passport – it's worth double-checking the expiry date in your passport, given how long travel has been off the cards.

Covid-19 rules for travel to Bali

There are also a few Covid regulations to follow if you're traveling to Bali. You need to be fully vaccinated to avoid quarantine; if you're only partially vaccinated, you’ll need to quarantine for six days. You also need proof of a negative PCR test from the country you’ve flown in from, along with travel insurance that covers Covid-related expenses.

On arrival, you must take a PCR test at the airport, before you’re whisked off to a pre-booked government-certified hotel. You’ll need to hang out in your room until you get your result (which hopefully will be the same day or the next day), but as soon as you’ve tested negative you’re free to hit the beach or trek up that volcano!

But before you get too excited, a second PCR test is required on the third day of your stay. You’ll be free to come and go as you please by day during that period, but you are required to stay at the same approved hotel for the first three nights. So long as you get a second negative result, you can check out and stay wherever you want to on Bali or across Indonesia.

This may sound a little convoluted, but it's part of a pilot program launched in March 2022. If all goes smoothly, the plan is for quarantine to be scrapped altogether.

Traveling to other parts of Indonesia

What about the rest of Indonesia? Java , Sumatra , Lombok …and all the other great places to visit in this beautiful country? Technically, Indonesia has been open for international travel since January 2022, but to visit, you'll need to obtain a B211A Tourism Visa. This is currently the only option beyond the visas being offered on arrival in Bali.

The B211A Tourism Visa must be arranged before you travel through an authorized Indonesian travel agent, who will act as a sponsor for your application. The fee is quite expensive – expect to pay US$150 to US$250 depending on the agency – but visas are valid for 60 days, and you can extend your stay for as long as six months through the same agency that arranged the visa. Even if you are eligible for a visa on arrival in Bali, if you’re planning on traveling long-term in Indonesia, you’ll need a B211A Tourism Visa.

For the application process, you need to supply a scanned copy of your passport ID pages and proof of at least one vaccination dose and travel insurance with coverage for Covid-related emergencies. Your passport should be valid for a year beyond the date of arrival if you're hoping to stay for the full six months.

Applications are filed using the immigration department's online e-visa portal – once you have your e-visa, you'll have to follow the same schedule of PCR tests and stays at government-certified hotels as for tourists arriving in Bali, before you can travel freely around the country.

Visas for travel beyond Bali are likely to be reintroduced soon

If all that sounds like a lot of hard work, just sit tight, as further changes to entry rules are in the pipeline. The Visa on Arrival scheme is expected to be rolled out for more points of arrival beyond Bali in the coming weeks, with more nationalities expected to be added to the approved list, and quarantine requirements are likely to be simplified. For the latest info, check the Media Room link on the website of Indonesia's immigration department . 

In the meantime, if you're planning to travel around Indonesia, weigh up the price difference between flying direct to your favored destination and obtaining a B211A Tourism Visa versus flying into Bali to obtain a visa on arrival then taking a domestic flight or boat to reach other parts of the country.

If you’re lucky enough to be traveling to Indonesia for work, you'll need a business visa (actually a sub-class of the B211A visa), which must be arranged through an authorized agency or through your company. See the official immigration department website for the latest information.

You may also like: Indonesia on a budget: The best ways to make the most of your money across the island nation How to get around Indonesia (with less hassle) The 11 best things to do in Indonesia, including orangutans, otherworldly architecture and oh-my-word views

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Information :  Visa processing will be temporarily closed from the 8th (Monday) to the 15th (Monday) of April 2024 due to the public holiday and collective leave of Hari Raya Idul Fitri 1445 Hijriah. However, visa exemption and visa on arrival services are still accessible.  We will resume regular operation on 16th April 2024.

Notes : Visa applications received on 6th (Saturday) and 7th (Sunday) of April 2024 , will start to be processed on 16th April, 2024 (Tuesday) .

• Type of Visa A1
• Type of Visa A2
• Type of Visa A3
• Type of Visa A4
• Type of Visa B1
• Type of Visa B2
• Type of Visa B4
• Type of Visa B3
• MULTIPLE ENTRY
• SINGLE ENTRY
• LIMITED STAY

Visa Application

Visa Type Information

Personal information.

Passport Term and Condition

Make sure the photo are sharp, in focus, and not ghosted.

Make sure the photo is not covered, cropped or folded and not blurry.

Make sure the passport photo is in landscape form.

Photo Term and Condition

• File format using *.JPEG/ .JPG/ .PNG in color.
• Min. 400x600px.
• Max. size 2Mb
• Proper composition.

The top of the head, including the hair, to the bottom of the chin must be between 50% and 60% of the image's total height. The eye height (measured from the bottom of the image to the level of the eyes) should be between 50% and 60% of the image's height.

The layout and position of the photo must be proper (Too close and too far are not recommended).

• Blurry photo.
• Others than face photo.
• Expression face photo.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Indonesia Visa for Tourists in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: January 16, 2024

Indonesia has a fairly complicated visa policy due to the number of different visas available to tourists. Furthermore, the rules changed after the pandemic began which complicates finding reliable information online. 

Between the outdated information, the government’s confusing rules, and the recent introduction of a glitchy online visa portal, making sense of Indonesia visa requirements is troublesome. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place! 

In this article, you will find everything you need to know about:

• Indonesia’s visa policy and requirements
• Eligibility for visa on arrival
• The difference between the various tourist visas and which one is right for you
• How to apply online, on arrival, or at an embassy
• Which visas are extendable and how
• The prices of different visas

Table of Contents

Visa policy.

Only 10 countries are visa-exempt for Indonesia – all ASEAN states plus Timor Leste.

These 10 plus 87 additional countries are eligible to apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVOA). These two types of visas (also branded B213) are equivalent and almost identical in their use and specifications. Use of VOA or eVOA is only possible at certain points of entry. They are valid for 30 days, extendable once.

All ordinary passport holders except for a select few countries, are eligible for the standard single-entry visitor visa (also called B211A) under certain conditions outlined in detail below. It is valid for 60 days and is extendable twice. This is sometimes referred to as the Indonesia digital nomad visa .

The visas so far mentioned are all single entry. Multiple-entry visas exist but are not intended for use by tourists.

Visa Requirements

Each visa has its own set of requirements outlined in its respective section. Nonetheless, there are a few common requirements for all types of visas and as well as visa exemption:

• Have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport
• Have an onward or return ticket
• Enter through a designated port. These may vary from visa to visa

Your return ticket may or may not be inspected. It’s good to be prepared even if your plans are flexible. Book an onward ticket before you travel for peace of mind.

All COVID restrictions were dropped in June 2023. A vaccination certificate is no longer necessary to enter Indonesia.

Indonesia has dozens of visa types. However, for tourism purposes, there are three main ones: visa or arrival (including one obtained online), and single-entry visitor visa. Some nationalities can enter visa-free.

Check out the table below for the main characteristics of these visas:

Visa Exemption

Indonesia changed its immigration law in 2015 to give many countries a visa exemption. This was reverted at the beginning of the pandemic. The only countries to regain visa-free access to Indonesia in 2022 were its ASEAN partners and Timor-Leste.

The visa exemption is not extendable and not transformable into any other type of visa. This is the reason why some may still obtain an extendable visa for a longer trip.

Eligibility 

Nationals of these 10 countries are visa-exempt for up to 30 days:

• Philippines
• Timor Leste

Designated ports of entry

There are 16 airports, 95 seaports, and 11 overland borders that allow visa-free entry. Check the updated list on the official Indonesian Immigration website.

Visa on Arrival (VOA/B213)

Nowadays, most travelers to Indonesia obtain a visa on arrival. It is the easiest and the cheapest option for most short-term tourists.

The visa on arrival is valid for 30 days. The day when you land is considered day 1 and you must leave on or before day 30 (this date is usually stamped or manually written on your passport).

The visa costs 500.000 IDR which is around 35$. It’s payable on arrival in Indonesian Rupiah or most other popular foreign currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, etc), albeit at an unfavorable rate.

Extension 

The visa is extendable once for an additional 30 days. 

This must be done in person at the nearest Kantor Imigrasi (immigration office). If done by yourself, it takes 3 visits to the immigration office.

Various agents online and offline offer to facilitate the extension for a fee. If you decide to go this route, you will only need to visit an immigration office once.

Eligibility

Passport holders from 97 countries can obtain a visa on arrival (VOA). These are:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Timor-Leste
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

Designated Ports of Entry and Additional Requirements

There are 15 airports, 91 seaports, and 12 overland borders that allow visa-free entry. Check the official list here .

Strictly speaking, there’s a requirement to be “financially sufficient” during your stay, but in practice, nobody ever asks for such proof.

Procedure at the Border

When you arrive at the border, look for the designated Visa on Arrival desks. On busier airports like Bali’s Denpasar (DPS) or Jakarta’s Soekarno Hatta (CGK), there are often queues from 5 minutes up to an hour.

When it’s your turn, give your passport and pay. If you pay in foreign currency, they will do the exchange for you on the spot. The rate is not good.

Then proceed to an immigration desk. Piece of cake, apart from the possible waiting.

Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVOA/B213)

The electronic visa on arrival is a bit of a misnomer. You apply for it online before your trip, then on arrival present the authorization document and receive a stamp in your passport.

It is a relatively new option, first introduced in November 2022. It’s almost identical to the regular VOA – it is the same cost, the same duration, and the same countries are eligible.

The two main ways in which it’s different are the way you get it and the way you extend it.

Obtaining an eVOA online

The only website where you should apply for the e-visa is the Molina Imigrasi webpage of the Indonesian government. Do not use any other websites – they will charge you extra at best and turn out to be scams at worst.

Although you can apply for the eVOA as a guest, I strongly advise you to create an account first. This will save you a big headache if you later decide to extend it.

Applying is straightforward and similar to other countries’ online visa portals. A few things to look out for:

• Make sure your passport picture is clean, has no glare and the file is under 250 kb, otherwise it will get rejected.
• Pick the 30-day visa on arrival option, code B213.
• The address you put doesn’t really matter, just use the first hotel you will stay at. Only write the postcode and the rest should populate automatically.
• Pay within 2 hours of submitting your application, otherwise, it becomes void.
• Save the PDF file on your phone to show to immigration on arrival.

I recommend following this detailed Indonesia eVOA article as a guide to apply for your eVOA.

Extending eVOA online

The reason why you should choose the eVOA over the VOA is that it’s extendable online in less than 5 minutes ! No more trips to the immigration office or paying an agent extra to do it for you! 

To do that, log back to the Molina website . That’s why it was important to create an account! If you didn’t, scan the QR code at the bottom of the PDF file and proceed from there. 

Once on the welcome screen, click EXTEND, follow the prompts, pay, and you’re done!

Double-check the date of expiry of the extension. You must leave on or before that date.

At the border, just show the PDF of the extension confirmation – the officer will check it in the system and stamp you out.

Single-Entry Visitor Visa (B211A)

The single-entry visitor visa, or B211A is the most popular among long-term tourists and digital nomads. It’s initially valid for 60 days and extendable twice for a maximum stay of 180 days.

It is also the only short-term tourist visa option for countries that are not eligible for the visa on arrival. The B211A is open to all nationalities, EXCEPT FOR:

• Afghanistan
• North Korea

These countries need a special Calling Visa.

It is possible to convert the B211A to an ITAS (Limited Stay Permit) within Indonesia. This is viable for long-term residents only.

Obtaining the B211A online

Since July 2023, the Single Entry visa is no longer obtainable onshore. 

This means that you must get this visa while outside of the country (offshore).

The best way to obtain a single-entry visitor visa is through the Molina Imigrasi website . There, the visa is coded as “211A” with the “B” missing. This is because it used to be non-extendable. This changed in September 2023. Now 211A and B211A are identical and both extendable.

Another government website is Online Visa Approval . However, it’s intended for use by sponsors and companies bringing foreigners to Indonesia, not individuals. It is best (and cheaper!) to use the Molina website.

The application process is similar to the one for the eVOA. Just pick “Tourism single-entry visitor visa 60 days” from the dropdown menu when prompted.

The required documents you must submit are:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• A recent color photograph
• Proof of having at least US$ 2,000 or equivalent. This can be a bank account statement.

The visa costs 1.500.000 IDR (~105$) payable immediately after submission.

Obtaining the B211A from an agent

Any agent in Indonesia, especially in Bali can apply for a B211A visa on your behalf. If you apply via an agent, the documentation needed is minimal. That’s because the agent uses their financial proofs instead of yours.

Agents charge about 2,500,000-3,000,000 IDR for applying B211A visa on your behalf. They usually need a picture of your passport ID page and a digital passport-size photo.

In 2022, I used Indonesian Gate to obtain my B211A visa. It’s owned and managed by a local and a westerner. They were recommended by many on the Bali expat Facebook groups.

Obtaining the B211A at an embassy

While the visa is the same, obtaining it at an Indonesian embassy abroad may be subject to different requirements than the one online. It is best to check with the embassy in your country for precise and up-to-date information. Requirements may also be different at different embassies!

The most common additional requirement is a sponsor letter from a registered tourist agency or hotel.

Extending the B211A visa

The B211A is extendable twice for 60 days each. An extension costs the same as the visa itself – 1.500.000 IDR (~105$).

The single-entry B211A visa is NOT extendable online!

This may change in the future as more options are added to the Molina website. This is however a personal speculation, so don’t rely on it.

Unfortunately, extensions are not an easy task. They are not quick either. Start the process at least 10 days before the expiry date of the initial visa. 

As long as you’ve initiated the extension process, you will not be fined if your original visa expires.

Extend using an agency

Many go to Indonesia and don’t want to bother with administration, documents, and mundane trips to immigration. Understandable. If that’s the case, just pay someone to do it for you!

I recommend Indonesian Gate but you can also look online or ask the community in Bali and you will quickly find many options. 

You will still need to make 1 trip to immigration to have your biometrics taken.

Usually, the procedure goes like this:

• You contact the agency and give them your passport. They bring it to immigration to start the process;
• A few days later they call you to go to the immigration office for biometrics;
• Another few days later they collect your passport and bring it back to you.

Extend it yourself

If you want to save some money, do the extension yourself.

In total, you will have to make 3 trips to immigration:

• Bring your passport and fill in an extension application form;
• Wait for a call and go back to do biometrics;
• A few days later go back to collect your passport with the visa extension.

The whole process takes 7-10 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a vaccination certificate to visit indonesia.

No! Since 9 June 2023, no vaccination requirements are in place.

What happens if I overstay my visa?

There is a fine of 1.000.000 IDR (~65$) per day of overstay. It is payable at the border in cash. Unless you’ve overstayed a huge amount of days (30+), a fine is probably all you’ll get – no black stamps, no bans. Don’t risk it – leave on time.

Can I travel inside Indonesia without my passport?

While waiting for an extension, your passport will be at immigration. Don’t let this stop you from exploring Indonesia!

You can travel to other provinces and take domestic flights without your passport. Just take a clear picture of your passport and the visa stamp. If using an agency for the extension, they will also provide a confirmation letter.

Can I travel outside Indonesia and come back on the same visa if I didn’t use the maximum number of days?

No. All tourist visas are single-entry. Leaving Indonesia voids the visa regardless of the visit duration.

Can I enter Indonesia a second time on a new visa?

Yes, you can. That’s called “doing a visa run”.

A visa run means leaving the country and reentering on a new visa to reset the allowed stay. Many visitors to Bali and Indonesia in general do it all the time. The most popular destinations for a visa run are Malaysia and Singapore.

Can I do a same-day visa run?

There are no official rules stating the minimum necessary time outside of Indonesia before you can reenter. 

Nevertheless, immigration (both Indonesian and foreign) generally frown upon same-day return. I strongly advise that you spend at least 1 day, preferably 3, outside of the country to avoid suspicion.

What is the best Indonesian visa for me?

Let’s assume you’re eligible for all the visas listed in this article. This is the quick answer:

• If you’re going for fewer than 30 days – get the VOA at the airport
• If you’re going for 30-60 days – get the eVOA and extend it online
• If you’re going for more than 60 days – get the single-entry B211 visa and extend onshore

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Indonesia Visa Requirements for Short-Term Stay

To enter Indonesia, you must complete an Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD) . If you’re entering the region of Bali, you’ll also need to pay the Bali Tourist Tax .

To get a visa to enter Indonesia , you must meet the visa requirements and conditions .

There are different requirements depending on the type of visa. This page will help you understand which Indonesian visa you need , and the application requirements .

Which Nationalities Need a Visa for Indonesia?

Citizens of the ASEAN countries (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam), and Timor-Leste can visit Indonesia for up to 30 days without a visa.

Visa-free entry is permitted when traveling for tourism, business meetings, transit, purchase of goods, and government visits only.

All other nationalities need to apply for an Indonesian visa for short stays.

The type of visa required depends on your nationality . Some passport holders are eligible to apply for an online e-VOA or Visitor visa, while others are only eligible for the online Visitor Visa.

Who can get an electronic visa for Indonesia?

Travelers from most countries can apply for at least one type of online visa for Indonesia, while some nationalities are eligible for both. More information below.

Indonesia e-VOA and Visitor Visa-eligible countries

If your passport was issued by one of these countries, you’re eligible for the e-VOA and the Tourist Visitor Visa :

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Brunei Darussalam
• Czech Republic
• Holy See (Vatican City State)
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• People's Democratic Republic of Laos
• Philippines
• Republic of Korea
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• Timor-Leste
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

Show more >>

Simply fill out your travel information — length and purpose of stay — and you’ll be assigned the corresponding visa type .

Indonesia Visitor Visa eligible countries

If your passport was issued by one of the following countries, you’re eligible for the Indonesia Visitor Visa , but not the e-VOA:

• American Samoa
• Antigua and Barbuda
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• Burkina Faso
• Christmas Island
• Cocos Islands
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Falkland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• French Guiana
• Guinea-Bissau
• Ivory Coast
• New Caledonia
• The Pitcairn 
• Polynesia French
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and Grenadines
• Tome and Principe
• Turkmenistan
• Virgin Islands (United States of America)
• Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)

You’ll be automatically assigned the Visitor Visa when you complete your application form.

Are there separate application forms for the e-VOA and Visitor Visa?

We’ve simplified the visa application process. You do not need to worry about filling out the correct form or selecting the right visa type: we’ll assign you the correct visa type based on your nationality, length of stay and travel purpose.

Applicants from all eligible countries can request their visa for Indonesia using this form: Indonesia visa application .

Is a visa required to transit through Indonesia?

Visa-free transit is allowed for passengers who have to pass through Soekarno-Hatta International Airport for less than 24 hours , or other airports for less than 8 hours .

You need a visa to change terminals in Soekarno-Hatta and transiting through Ngurah Rai International Airport, even if you’re in transit for under 24 hours. This does not apply if the passenger is from a visa-exempt jurisdiction .

Documents Needed for the Indonesian Online Visa

The document requirements vary depending on the type of visa. To apply, you need:

Email address

Debit or credit card

To get a Visitor Visa B211A, you also need to provide a return ticket and proof of funds .

The electronic visa process is 100% online . You will not need to present any additional documents in person at a government office.

Passport requirements for the Indonesia e-VOA and Visitor Visa

• Your passport must be issued by an eligible country .
• The travel document must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to enter Indonesia.
• You must use the same passport to apply for the e-VOA or Visitor Visa as you will use to travel. The digital visa information must match your passport details when you arrive at immigration.

Indonesia online visa photo requirements

The photo you submit with your Indonesia visa application must meet the following requirements:

• Color: No black and white photos
• Resolution: At least 400x600 pixels
• Background: White or off-white
• Expression: Neutral with mouth closed
• Head coverings: Only for religious purposes

When applying through this site, you can upload your photo easily in any format . We’ll make sure it meets the government requirements.

What Are the Entry Requirements for Indonesia?

All international arrivals must present the following documents to border officials:

• Valid passport
• Approved visa (unless exempt)
• Electronic Custom Declaration form (e-CD)

You may also be asked to show your return or onward ticket at immigration.

If you’re going to the island of Bali as a tourist, you must also pay a one-time tax . This is part of a scheme to promote sustainable tourism. The money raised will be used to protect the environment and culture on Bali, as well as improve infrastructure. You must pay this “tourist levy” online before you travel .

What are the passport validity requirements to travel to Indonesia?

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your arrival in Indonesia. This means that if you are arriving in Indonesia on January 1, 2024, your passport must be valid until at least July 1, 2024.

You must also have at least 2 blank pages in your passport for the immigration stamps.

Do I need travel insurance to enter Indonesia?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended . You should choose an insurance policy that covers you against:

• Unexpected medical expenses
• Emergency transportation home
• Baggage loss or damage
• Trip cancellation or disruption

Take a copy of your travel insurance document with you when you travel to Indonesia.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Indonesia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Indonesia’s embassy in the UK .

Death from COVID-19 in Indonesia

If COVID-19 is given as cause of death and you would like to arrange a local cremation and repatriation of ashes, you will need to make contact with a local undertaker within 4 hours of the death registration to give your instructions. If you do not do this, it is likely that a local burial will take place.

You will also require a letter of no objection from the Embassy. This will be issued on the next working day.

Passport validity requirements

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Indonesia.

Check with your travel provider or the nearest Indonesian Embassy or Consulate to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet the requirements.

Dual nationality

Indonesian law does not allow dual nationality for those aged 18 and older. If you are a British national who has retained Indonesian nationality, you could have difficulties with immigration in Indonesia. You might have to renounce your nationality or hand in your Indonesian passport.

Visa requirements

You can apply for an e-visa before arrival on the Indonesian immigration website .

Visas on arrival

British nationals who visit Indonesia for the following reasons can also apply for a visa on arrival at a cost of 500,000 Indonesian rupiah:

• official visit or government duties
• business or official meeting
• procurement of goods

The visa is valid for 30 days. It can be extended once (for a maximum of 30 days) by making an application to an immigration office within Indonesia. Make sure you extend your visa within the initial 30 days to avoid an overstay fine of 1 million rupiah a day.

KITAS extension (stay or work permit)

KITAS holders with expiring stay permit but currently outside Indonesia can apply for an extension through a sponsor. The sponsor must submit the application to the immigration office attaching a copy of the passport and proof of leaving Indonesia. The application is submitted without biometric sampling. The sponsor must report the foreigner’s arrival within 30 days.

Beware of visa scams by fake visa agents who, having taken your money, may fail to provide a visa or supply the wrong visa. This could result in your overstaying and a fine of 1 million Indonesia rupiah per day, detention, deportation and possible re-entry ban. Use the Indonesian Immigration self-service portal.

Visa scams are increasing in Indonesia. Some travellers have lost significant amounts of money. Others have been deported despite paying large fees to an agent to get the correct visa or extension.

If you choose to use to use an agent check they are reputable.

Overstaying your visa

Visitors who overstay without the proper permissions can be held in detention or refused permission to leave the country until a fine of 1 million Indonesian rupiah per day is paid.

If you have overstayed your visa for less than 60 days, you must pay your fine at the airport. After 60 days, you will be detained until the fine is paid.

If your visa will expire during a period of hospitalization or detention, contact Indonesian Immigration before your visa expires to avoid any overstay fines. The British Embassy Jakarta can assist with this.

Proof of onward travel

Immigration officials in Indonesia may ask you for proof of onward travel (such as a return or onward air ticket). Make all reservations before leaving for Indonesia. Some airlines have refused to board passengers without evidence of onward travel.

Airport tax

Airport tax is included in the cost of all domestic flights within Indonesia. For some international flights departing Indonesia, airport tax might not be included in the price of the ticket. Check with your airline or travel agent before you travel.

Tourist levy

On 14 February 2024, the Bali Provincial Government will introduce a tourist levy of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah per person (approximately £8) to all foreign tourists arriving in Bali. Payment can be made online or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali’s airport and seaport. Further information can be found on the Bali Provincial Government’s official website .

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro .

Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

• yellow fever

Accommodation

Registering.

If you stay in private accommodation in Indonesia (not a hotel) you must register your presence with the local police at the nearest police station. You could be fined 5 million Indonesia rupiah if you do not register. If you stay in a hotel you will be registered automatically.

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Indonesia Solved

Types of Visas in Indonesia: Explained

Navigating Indonesia’s myriad visa types can be akin to conquering a labyrinth, particularly for expats! Indonesiasolved.com is your trusty guide, helping unravel the complexities surrounding the diverse visa options available in this tropical paradise.

Let’s dive into the essentials, exploring visas from social to retirement, and demystifying the requirements and processes entailed.

Best Time To Go To Indonesia

Indonesia is a big country, and different places have different seasons, particularly when it comes to diving and surfing. 

That said, most places are hot , dryish, and crowded July-August, hot, wet, and empty in January-February, and somewhere in between for the rest of the year. 

It can be hard to find alcohol or restaurants open during the day in more conservative Muslim areas during Ramadan.

Top Regions And Cities In Indonesia

Known as the Island of the Gods , Bali offers Hindu temples, hikes through rice fields, yoga retreats, and party-hearty beach clubs, plus diving, art classes, and world-class hotels, spas, and restaurants – all packed into an island about the size of Trinidad.

It’s Indonesia’s signature tourist destination , so over-tourism is an issue.

But much of north, east, and central Bali still offers the rice terrace landscapes, volcano views, and the resilient culture that first drew travelers to the island.

About the size of Greece but home to roughly the population of Japan, Java’s rich volcanic soils teem with life (and people!). This is Indonesia’s economic motor and dominant culture , the center of empires for centuries. 

It’s home to gridlocked, water-logged Jakarta, the nation’s administrative capital (for now), and Yogyakarta, a regal university city that does battle with neighboring Surakarta (also known as Solo) for the status of Java’s cultural capital. 

From smoldering Mount Bromo to the Unesco-listed temples of Borobudur and Prambanan and the historic tea plantations around Bandung, it’s easy to spend weeks, if not months, exploring – some of it by train.

Flores And Komodo

Famous for Komodo dragons, Earth’s most giant lizard, Unesco-listed Komodo National Park offers glorious diving and snorkeling and stunning island views: liveaboards are the way to go. 

To protect the fragile reef and many tiny islands, authorities hiked the entrance fee to a hefty IDR 3,073,380 per day in August 2022, only to repeal it sharply after tourism workers protested; check the current position before you visit. 

The Komodo archipelago’s parent island, Flores, offers tribal cultures, mountain valleys, and highlights such as Wae Rebo, a postcard-perfect highland village, and Kelimutu, a volcano with multi-colored crater lakes.

Lombok’s Gili Islands, a triptych of low-lying sand islets a short hop across the water from Bali, are a law unto themselves, as there’s no permanent police presence. 

Party-seeking youngsters flock to Gili Trawangan and older reprobates to Gili Air; Gili Meno is quieter, although sound does carry. 

Yet there’s more to Lombok than these and other gilis (Gili means island): the Rinjani volcano offers a challenging but rewarding multi-day hike, and the south coast unfurls rugged promontories and sweeping golden beaches.

In addition, the cultural attractions run from an ancient palm-thatch mosque to a fusion of Hindu-Muslim temples.

About the size of Spain but with much less infrastructure, Sumatra is known for its rainforest . Despite surging deforestation – during a bad season, the peat fire haze can cause diplomatic incidents – it still has tonnes to offer. 

Gunung Leuser National Park is probably the world’s best place to see orangutans in the wild. Advanced surfers are drawn to the remote Mentawai Islands for exceptional reef breaks. 

The cool highlands around Lake Toba, the world’s largest crater lake, house fascinating cultural relics. And the Minangkabau region gave Indonesia its signature – spicy, aromatic – Padang cuisine .

Best Things To Do In Indonesia

Try Scuba Diving

Most of central and east Indonesia falls within the Coral Triangle, a global hotspot for marine biodiversity. While the currents that feed reef ecosystems and draw sharks and rays can be challenging, Indonesia offers brilliant diving in warm and generally clear waters. 

Komodo, Raja Ampat, and Alor draw experienced divers, generally on liveaboard boats; Bali and the Gilis are popular places to learn, while Sulawesi’s Lembeh Strait is known for weird and wonderful critters.

Warm waters and epic waves make Indonesia a lure for surfers. Far-flung islands like Rote, in the far south, and the Mentawais, to the west, boast long, steady, big waves that draw experienced surfers. 

Bali offers year-round surfing – on the west coast in the dry season (roughly April-October) and the east coast during the wet season (roughly November-March) – at levels from child-friendly to competition grade.

Experience A Religious Ceremony

With six official religions, most of them available in a range of distinctively Indonesian flavors, the country’s rituals are fascinating. 

Buddhists come from around the globe to celebrate Waisak at Borobudur; in Yogyakarta, the Prophet’s birthday celebrations see epic parades; at Balinese New Year (Nyepi), marching monsters give way to a strictly enforced day of silence.

Dates generally follow non-Gregorian calendars.

Visiting Indonesia

If you’re considering visiting Indonesia, chances are you do not need an Indonesia Visa. That’s because the Indonesian visa policy is very lenient . For stays of up to 30 days , only nationals from a few countries have to apply for a visa. 

Additionally, several others can apply for an Indonesian Visa on Arrival. Indonesia is part of the ASEAN agreement, meaning there is visa-free travel between Indonesia and 9 other member countries.

Do You Need A Visa To Transit In Indonesia?

You do not need an Indonesian airport transit visa if you are generally exempt from holding an Indonesian Tourist Visa.

You do have to apply for an Indonesia visa unless:

• You will transit in Jakarta (CGK) and
• You have a confirmed onward flight ticket for a flight to a third country within 24  hours , and
• You do not leave the international transit area of the airport and
• You have the necessary documents (visa, passport, etc.) for the next destination
• You will transit in an airport other than Jakarta (CGK) and
• You have an onward flight ticket within 8 hours and

Types Of Indonesian Visas

Indonesian visas are divided into the following types based on the purpose and duration of your trip:

• Tourist Visa (Embassy and On Arrival)
• Multiple-entry Visa
• Business Visa
• Limited Stay Visa

Indonesia Tourist Visa

The Indonesia Tourist Visa is a single-entry visa issued for a maximum of 30 days . Upon Arrival, certain nationals can receive the Indonesia tourist visa (see above). 

You can extend this visa once you are in Indonesia and stay for a maximum of 60 days. You can get this type of visa if you intend to enter Indonesia for tourism, recreational, or visiting purposes. 

You cannot work or conduct business with a tourist visa.

You have to apply for an Indonesia tourist visa only if you are from one of the visa-required countries or you want to stay for more than 30 days. Otherwise, only some people need to apply for an Indonesian visa for tourism.

Indonesia Multiple-Entry Visa

The Indonesian Indonesia Multiple-Entry Visa is issued to people who will enter Indonesia for official government activities, business or commercial activities , or family visits. 

This visa is valid for six months , one year , or two years.  

To receive this type of visa, you have to get Authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Indonesia.

Indonesia Business Visa

The Business Visa for Indonesia is a type of multiple-entry visa that can be issued for up to one year . With it, a business traveler can enter Indonesia multiple times and stay up to 60 days in any entry.

With a Business visa, you can attend meetings or training , do negotiations , and other business-related activities . Still, you cannot take up actual employment in Indonesia (i.e., you cannot be paid a salary by an Indonesian company).

Indonesia Limited Stay Visa

Despite the name, the Limited Stay Visa for Indonesia is a “long-stay” visa. You need This visa type if you want to work , study , join a family member, or retire in Indonesia. For example:

• Indonesia Work Visa
• Indonesia Student Visa
• Indonesia Family Visa
• Indonesia Retirement Visa
• Indonesia Digital Nomad Visa

In order for you to apply for one of these visas, your sponsor or guarantor in Indonesia (i.e., your employer, school, or family member) has to apply for a Letter of Visa Authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Jakarta, Indonesia. 

Once the Directorate General of Immigration authorizes your visa, they will notify the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate, who will give you the visa.

How To Apply For An Indonesia Visa?

You can apply for an Indonesia visa in one of the following ways:

• At an Indonesian Mission abroad (Embassy or Consulate) before you travel
• On Arrival at the airport in Indonesia

Applying For An Indonesia Visa At An Embassy Or Consulate

The process for an Indonesian visa application is:

• Find the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate responsible for your jurisdiction. You can find the Diplomatic Missions of Indonesia here.
• Contact them or visit their website to learn about the visa application requirements.
• Make an appointment if necessary.
• Collect the required documents for the Indonesia visa application. You have to submit your passport along with the documents.
• Pay the Indonesia visa fee . The method of payment changes depending on the specific Embassy or Consulate. Some require you to pay through a bank, while others accept cash. The visa fees are non-refundable. 

Submit the documents to the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate. In some cases, you may be allowed to submit the documents by mail.

• Wait for the Embassy/Consulate to process your visa application.
• Once they decide, you should return to pick up your passport and documents . If you applied by mail, the Embassy/Consulate will mail them to you. If the decision is favorable, you will receive your Indonesian visa.

Although the process detailed above is a general overview, the exact process varies from country to country. This is why first you should contact the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate responsible for your jurisdiction.

How Long Does It Take To Process An Indonesian Visa?

It takes 3 – 5 working days for the Indonesian Embassy/Consulate to process your visa application. Still, the processing time depends on the specific diplomatic mission where you are applying as well as the application method. 

If you apply by mail, it will take longer for you to receive the visa due to the mailing time.

Indonesia Visa Fees

The Indonesia Visa fees are as follows:

• Single-entry Tourist Visa: IDR 768,580
• Multiple-entry Tourist/Visit/Business Visa: IDR 1,537,160
• Limited Stay Visa: 
• Six months: IDR 768,580
• One year: IDR 1,383,660
• Two years: IDR 2,459,840
• Visa on Arrival: IDR 538,090

How To Pay The Indonesia Visa Fee?

There are only so many acceptable ways to pay the Indonesian visa fee. This will depend on what Embassy or Consulate you are applying for and whether you’re applying by mail or in person. 

Luckily, the Indonesian Embassies/Consulates have instructions about the payment method on their websites. Sometimes, you have to purchase a Money Order ; other times, you can pay via your Credit or Debit Card.

Note: The visa fees are subject to change based on new immigration rules and the country you apply to.

What Is The Duration Of An Indonesian Visa?

The validity of a Tourist Visa for Indonesia is 30 days and for a single entry. This type of visa can be extended for another 30 days before expiration.

Visas on Arrival are also valid for 30 days and extendable .

A multiple-entry Indonesia visa is valid for one year . You can stay up to 60 days on each entry.

Limited stay visas are issued for six months, one year, or two years .

Indonesia Visa Extension

You can apply for an Indonesia visa extension before your current visa expires at the Immigration Office in Indonesia. 

You have to pay a fee , which will be the same as your original visa fee.

You can apply for an extension up to 4 times, each time for 30 days.

You cannot apply for an extension of your stay if you have entered under a Visa Waiver (without a visa).

If you stay longer than you are allowed, you will have to pay a fee for every day you have overstayed. The overstay fee is approximately IDR 1,076,250 per day.

What To Do If An Indonesia Visa Is Rejected Or Denied

If an Indonesian online visa is rejected, there are often steps that can be taken to rectify the situation. This depends on your circumstances and the reason(s) why your initial application was not successful.

Rejected Due To A Mistake Or Missing Information

This can be rectified if your Indonesia visa application is rejected or denied due to missing or incorrect information. In most of these cases, it’s necessary to resubmit the form and correct any mistakes that were included.

Rejected Due To A Criminal Conviction

You may not be eligible to re-apply if your application has been rejected for another reason, such as criminal convictions. 

It is essential to have the correct information and documentation prepared before completing an online Indonesia visa application. 

Following the correct guidelines and getting everything ready in advance can make getting a visa for Indonesia swift and seamless.

Is Traveling To Indonesia Worth It?

Indonesia is a beautiful and adventurous travel destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. With over 170,000 islands and 240 million people , Indonesia provides an incredible travel experience .

If you need more clarification about visiting Indonesia for a vacation, there is plenty to do, including animal viewing, island hopping, shopping, and surfing. There are also numerous other enjoyable activities.

Indonesia is home to some of nature’s most beautiful natures , including beaches, deep seas, tropical forests, and mountains. Be wowed by gorgeous beaches like those in Bali, Lombok, Nusa Dua, and the tranquil Gili Islands. 

Hiking is also very popular here, as you may climb numerous active volcanoes, including Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater in East Java, Mount Rinjani in Lombok, and Mount Batur in Bali.

It has nearly 17,000 islands , so you could easily live island-hopping here.

Indonesia is home to 20% of the world’s coral reefs and some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling. Numerous alternatives exist for novice and experienced divers, including gear rental businesses, liveaboard trips, and more. 

Nothing says more about a country than its people. Indonesians are often recognized for being pleasant , cheerful , and always willing to lend a helping hand. What better way to discover and experience a nation than through its people?

They are also highly proud of their history , culture , wildlife, food, and other aspects and are eager to share it with others.

Indonesia has about 300 styles of traditional dances , each with a unique philosophy. Each dance is distinct and worth seeing!

For example, visiting Bali, you can see the Kecak Dance, which evolved from ancient Balinese ceremonies known as Sanghyang. The performance can be seen at Tanah Lot, GWK Cultural Park, or Pura Dalem Ubud.

Indonesian food is well-known around the world. In Indonesia, you can practically eat for days and try something new. 

Try their most popular food, such as satay (lamb or chicken skewers), nasi goreng (fried rice plate with additional meals such as fried eggs, veggies, and chicken), and Gudeg (a dish made from boiled young jackfruit, usually served with rice, sambal, and chicken).

Furthermore, Indonesia is well-known for its spicy cuisine. So, if you like spicy foods, you’ve come to the right place!

In Indonesia, you may satisfy your stomach with everything from street food to fine dining.

Embarking on an Indonesian adventure should be about relishing vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes, not wrestling with visa complexities . Whether you’re here to soak up the sun or for entrepreneurial pursuits, understanding the visa tapestries is crucial.

Have we solved your Indonesian visa conundrums? Feel free to explore more expat-centric advice and insights here at Indonesiasolved.com!

But wait! There’s more! You might also be interested in the following:

Work Employment Visa in Indonesia: Explained

• Job Seeker Visa for Indonesia: Simple Guide

Permanent Residence in Indonesia: All You Need to Know

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Indonesia Visa: Entry requirements and pre-travel information for Indonesia

Welcome to indonesia.

• Indonesia B211A Visa
• Indonesia Electronic Customs Declaration
• Indonesia Tourist Visa
• Indonesia eVOA

Traveling to Indonesia? You may need a visa – find out if you do, which type, and how to apply so you can get the paperwork out of the way and focus on your trip.

What’s an Indonesia eVOA and who’s it for?

Who’s the Indonesian eVOA (Electronic Visa on Arrival) for? The eVOA is accessible to citizens of numerous countries, reflecting Indonesia's wide appeal as a global tourist destination. With this online application you won’t have to stand in the queue on arrival, as you’ll get your pre-approval and make the payment online.

Who’s not eligible for an Indonesian eVOA?

• Travelers from ASEAN member countries do not need a visa for Indonesia, including Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Cambodia, Brunei, Malaysia, Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam.

What’s the purpose of an Indonesian eVOA? The Indonesia eVoa allows you to do many different activities with this visa:

Government visits.

Attend business meetings.

Purchase goods.

Transit in Indonesia.

However, you are not allowed to work in Indonesia on this visa or attend events as a paid speaker.

How long can you stay with an Indonesian eVOA? The Indonesia eVOA is initially valid for 30 days. It can be extended for another 30 days before its expiry date.

Learn more about the Indonesia eVOA

Apply now for your Indonesia eVOA

What’s an Indonesia B211A Visa (Tourist Visa) and who’s it for?

Who’s the Indonesian B211A Visa for? Anyone who isn’t eligible to get a Visa on Arrival or eVOA, must apply for this visa to visit Indonesia.

What’s the purpose of an Indonesian B211A Visa? Tourism or business.

How long can you stay with an Indonesian B211A Visa?

Once approved, you have 90 days to enter Indonesia from the visa issuance date, and you can stay in the country for up to 60 days Per Entry .

Learn more about the Indonesia B211A Visa

Apply for your Indonesia B211A Visa

What’s an Indonesia Business Visa D2 and who’s it for?

Who’s the Indonesian Business Visa D2 for?

Foreign nationals who intend to engage in business activities in Indonesia.

What’s the purpose of an Indonesia Business Visa D2? Participating in meetings and negotiations, signing business contracts, buying items - which may involve inspecting them at an office, factory, or where they are made - tourist activities, and visiting family and friends.

How long can you stay with an Indonesia Business Visa D2? It’s valid for 1 year after arrival . It’s a Multiple Entry visa, and you can stay up to 60 days Per Entry .

Learn more about the Indonesia Business Visa D2

Apply for your Indonesia Business Visa D2

What’s an Indonesia Electronic Customs Declaration and who’s it for?

Who’s the Indonesian Electronic Customs Declaration for?

All passengers must complete a customs declaration before arrival in Indonesia. (only one declaration per family is required).

How long can you stay with an Indonesian Electronic Customs Declaration?

You can only use this document once when you enter the country.

Learn more about the Indonesia Electronic Customs Declaration

Apply for your Indonesia Electronic Customs Declaration

What are the Indonesian long-term visa options?

Indonesia offers several long-term visa options for various purposes, such as employment, study, business, and residence. Here are some of the common long-term visas:

Multiple-entry visas: Suitable for individuals who need to enter Indonesia several times for official government, business, or commercial activities, as well as family visits.

Business visas: A Multiple Entry visa for business-related activities (excluding employment), valid for up to 1 year after arrival with stays of up to 60 days Per Entry .

Limited-stay visas (KITAS): Designed for those intending to reside in Indonesia for longer periods for reasons such as work, study, family reunification, or retirement.

Diplomatic and service visas: For diplomats and officials involved in governmental activities.

At iVisa, we currently don’t offer these visas, but you can find out more from the nearest Indonesian Embassy or Consulate.

Staying healthy in Indonesia: Here’s what you need to know

Healthcare facilities and standards in Indonesia can vary significantly depending on the location and the type of facility. Here's what travelers should know.

Make sure to stay updated on routine vaccines

Consider vaccines for diseases like chickenpox, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, flu, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), polio, and shingles.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers aged 9 months and over arriving within 6 days of departure from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

Keep updated with Indonesia's COVID-19 requirements, such as quarantine, testing, or vaccine certificates, through your airline or the Indonesian government website.

Medical facilities

In urban areas, private hospitals and specialized centers usually offer high-quality healthcare services. These are also the ones mostly used for medical tourism.

In major cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya, you'll find private hospitals offering a higher standard of care, often on par with Western facilities. These hospitals cater well to international travelers, with English-speaking staff.

In Rural areas or smaller islands, medical facilities can be basic. In these regions, clinics may lack advanced equipment or specialized care.

Health insurance

We’d always recommend taking out health insurance before you travel anywhere from any destination.

All the major cities in Indonesia will have private medical care, but it’s expensive. You should choose travel insurance with high medical limits.

Contact your insurance provider before traveling to make sure you have the right level of coverage.

Other things to consider:

Trip cancellation, delay, and interruption benefits.

Medical expenses and medical evacuation benefits.

Baggage coverage.

Things to be aware of when visiting Indonesia

Keep an extra eye on the following to keep healthy and safe during your trip to Indonesia:

1. Food and water contamination: Drink only bottled water and avoid tap water.

2. Mosquito-borne diseases: Dengue fever and malaria are prevalent in Indonesia. Protecting yourself with repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and staying in accommodations with mosquito nets are advisable.

3. Water activities: Indonesia's stunning beaches and marine life are irresistible, but beware of strong currents and riptides when swimming or diving.

Medication for personal use

Follow these tips to bring into Indonesia some over-the-counter medicines:

Declare all medications: Report all medication for personal use to customs authorities.

Original packaging: Always keep medicines in their original containers and in transparent bags in your hand luggage.

Prescription or doctor's letter: Present the medical prescription issued by your doctor or other competent authority, in English.

Check for restrictions: Call Indonesia's embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.

Quantity aligned with itinerary: Bring only a reasonable quantity that aligns with your stay duration to avoid complications.

Need embassy support?

For other consular needs for Indonesia, your first point of contact is the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

Need assistance while traveling in Indonesia? Your home country's embassy or consulate is your go-to place for support. Check our useful Embassies Finder to locate the nearest one.

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• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia overall due to security risks.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Indonesia (PDF 699.19 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire services, ambulance and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 110 or 112.

Tourist Police, Bali

Call (+0361) 759 687.

Tourist Police, Jakarta

Call (+201) 526 4073.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia overall.

Reconsider your need to travel to the provinces of Papua (Papua), Papua Highlands (Papua Pegunungan), Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and South Papua (Papua Selatan).

Reconsider your need to travel  to the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan due to the risk of serious security incidents or demonstrations that may turn violent.

• There's an ongoing risk of terrorist attack in Indonesia. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities. Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks.
• Public protests and events that draw large groups of people occur regularly and can turn violent with little notice. Expect traffic delays and restricted access to locations if there are protests. Avoid protests and demonstrations and monitor local media for the latest updates.
• Many of Indonesia's volcanoes are active and can erupt without warning. Adhere to exclusion zones around volcanoes, which can change at short notice, and follow the advice of local authorities. Domestic and international flights can be disrupted. Monitor Indonesia's  Volcano Observatory Notice  for the latest volcanic activity (Bahasa Indonesia and English),  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  and the  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre  for updates. 
• There's been tension, including demonstrations and violence, in certain towns in the provinces of Papua,   Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan in recent years. Armed groups have stated that they're targeting foreigners, including Australians. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited. Armed groups have shot at aircraft, including commercial planes, in remote airports in Papua Pegunungan and Papua Tengah provinces.
• Petty and violent crime occurs in Indonesia. Opportunistic crime, such as pickpocketing occurs. Drinks may be spiked or mixed with toxic substances. Crimes involving taxis and taxi drivers occur. Solo women are at higher risk. Be alert in taxis, public transport, crowds, bars and nightclubs.
• Legal disputes over real estate are common, including in Bali. Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details, do your research and get legal advice.
• Natural disasters such as severe weather, floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis occur regularly. Weather conditions can change quickly during the wet season (October – April). Regularly check weather reports, monitor media and speak to your travel provider before continuing with planned activities. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• When undertaking adventure activities, ensure that functioning safety equipment is available, that you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for these activities.

Full travel advice: Safety

• The standard of medical facilities in Indonesia is generally lower than in Australia. Many regional hospitals only provide basic facilities.
• Some medications, including prescription medications, drugs for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), all cannabis-based products including medicinal cannabis, cannabis-based oils and creams, hemp-based products, CBD, THC, hash and edibles, are illegal in Indonesia. Harsh penalties, such as arrest and jail time, can apply even if you have a prescription. Make sure your  medication is legal in Indonesia .
• Purchasing prescription medication online or over the counter in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller before your purchase.

Full travel advice: Health

• Indonesia has revised its criminal code, which includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions will not come into force until January 2026.
• Penalties for drug offences include heavy fines, long prison sentences and the death penalty. Police target tourist destinations. 
• Some medications are illegal in Indonesia. Harsh penalties can apply even if you have a prescription. It is also illegal to purchase prescription medications online or over the counter without an Indonesian prescription. Ensure you have a valid Indonesian prescription. See ' Health '.

The death penalty exists for some crimes in Indonesia.

• Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Indonesia. Learn about local customs. Take care not to offend.
• Aceh province upholds aspects of sharia law. Sharia law applies to everyone, including travellers. Inform yourself about the laws, and be careful not to offend or break local laws. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• The   Idul Fitri holiday period will take place from 10 April. Many people will travel across Indonesia until 22 April, with many expected to move in and out of the greater Jakarta area. This may impact traffic and public transport, including airports, seaports, highways, toll roads, train and bus stations across Indonesia. Airports are expected to be busy. Plan your travel carefully and prepare for significant delays. Contact your travel provider for up-to-date details.
• The Bali Provincial Government has introduced a new tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person to foreign tourists entering Bali. The tourist levy is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival or the Visa on Arrival. Cashless payments can be made online prior to travel or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali's airport and seaport. See the  Bali Provincial Government's  official website and  FAQs  for further information.
• If you're travelling to Indonesia for tourism, official government duties or business meetings, you can  apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)  online at least 48 hours before your travel to Indonesia. This also applies if you're transiting through Indonesia at international airports, seaports and land crossings. You can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at some international airports, seaports or land crossings.
• To apply for the e-VOA or VOA, you must have an ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter (we also recommend having at least 6 months of passport validity from the date you plan to leave Indonesia, to avoid any issues for your departure or onward travel) and a return or onward flight booking to another country.
• You may need to apply for a visa in advance to enter Indonesia for purposes not covered by the e-VOA or VOA. Check the latest entry requirements with your travel provider or an  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  before travel. Entry, exit and transit conditions can change at short notice. Monitor media for the latest updates. 
• You'll be required to complete an  e-customs declaration  for arrival. You can complete this within 3 days of departure to Indonesia.
• Travel requirements may change at short notice, including travel to Bali and Jakarta by air, land or sea. Contact your travel provider and monitor media for up-to-date details.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy, Jakarta , the Australian Consulate-General, Bali , the Australian Consulate-General, Makassar or the Australian Consulate-General, Surabaya .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

The terrorist threat in Indonesia is ongoing. Attacks could happen anywhere and anytime. This includes places that foreigners visit.

Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities. Remain respectful of religious and local customs.

Indonesian authorities continue to investigate and disrupt terrorist groups in Indonesia, including Bali.

Terrorist attacks are motivated by extreme beliefs. Both local grievances as well as events in other parts of the world could motivate extremists in Indonesia towards violence.

Recent terrorist attacks

In December 2022, an explosion occurred at a police station in Bandung, Jawa Barat, killing 2 and injuring 11.

In March 2021, 2 suicide bombers attacked a church in Makassar, injuring dozens.

In the past, police have said that terrorist suspects remain at large and may seek Western targets.

Indonesian security agencies continue to conduct operations against terrorist groups.

Terrorists in Indonesia may carry out small-scale violent attacks with little or no warning.

Be alert in places of worship, especially during periods of religious significance.

Terrorists have targeted places of worship in:

As well as places of worship, other possible targets by terrorists include:

• Indonesian government facilities, premises and symbols associated with the Indonesian Government
• police stations and checkpoints
• bars, nightclubs, cafes and restaurants
• cinemas and theatres
• shopping centres, public transport and transport hubs
• airports and airlines
• clubs, including sporting clubs
• tourist areas and attractions, tour buses and tour groups
• outdoor recreation events

Supporters have committed additional acts of violence in response to high-profile extremists being detained or killed.

To protect yourself during a terrorist attack:

• leave the area as soon as it's safe
• follow the advice of local authorities
• don't gather in a group after an attack
• don't gather in a group if you're evacuated from a building

Security remains at a high level at:

• the Australian Embassy in Jakarta
• the Consulates-General in Bali, Makassar and Surabaya

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Most events are announced before they happen; however, protests may occur with little or no notice.

Protests and events are often held near major government buildings and embassies in Jakarta, including the Australian Embassy.

Protests may also occur at any of Australia's Consulates-General in Surabaya, Bali and Makassar, at government buildings, or the offices of international organisations in Indonesia.

You can expect traffic delays and restricted access to locations if there are protests.

Phone or email ahead for an appointment before going to the Embassy or the Consulates-General (see  Local contacts ).

Demonstrations and acts of violence can happen when courts try and sentence extremists.

Conflict between different communities can sometimes occur, including in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited.

Local violence can also be directed at minority groups in other parts of Indonesia, including in Java.

If you're found to endanger security or public order, you may be prosecuted under Indonesia's Immigration laws, which may result in imprisonment or deportation.

To protect yourself from possible violence:

• avoid protests and demonstrations
• monitor local media for the latest security updates
• plan your activities to avoid potential unrest on significant dates
• be prepared to change your travel plans
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Armed conflict

The provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan experience regular violent clashes involving armed groups, civilians, Indonesian police, and the military. Armed groups have stated that they are targeting foreigners, including Australians. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited.

Many people have been killed and injured in clashes. This includes members of security forces, armed groups and civilians. Violent attacks have occurred in several areas of these provinces, including in and around Jayapura. There's a risk of more attacks.

On 23 February 2023, a riot broke out in Wamena, Papua Pegunungan, when a crowd attacked Indonesian security personnel following the arrest of two people accused of child kidnapping. 12 civilians and rioters were killed.

Violent attacks have occurred around the Freeport Mine in Papua Tengah.

Armed groups have:

• taken a New Zealand pilot hostage in Paro, Papua Pegunungan
• shot at aircraft, including commercial planes, at Beoga airport in Pupua Tengah province and Nop Goliat Dekai airport in Papua Pegunungan province. 
• killed people in attacks, including one Australian
• attacked vehicles using the road between Grasberg and Timika
• killed people in violent attacks in Puncak Jaya District, Papua Tengah
• more attacks are possible and could target infrastructure and national institutions.

A range of crimes, including violent crime, occur in Indonesia. Crimes can happen in popular tourist locations in Bali.

To protect yourself from crime:

• be aware of your surroundings
• be alert in crowds
• understand the potential crime risks

Theft, robbery  and bag and phone snatching have occurred. These crimes can sometimes involve violence. Opportunistic crime such as pickpocketing occurs.

Be careful of thieves:

• on motorcycles targeting pedestrians
• in upmarket shopping malls
• in crowded public transport
• at traffic lights targeting people in stopped cars
• at bars and nightclubs
• when entering accommodation, including villas in Bali

Keep bags and valuables out of sight in vehicles.

If you're travelling on foot, walk:

• on footpaths
• away from the curb
• with your bag held away from traffic

Sexual assault

If you're a victim of sexual assault :

• get immediate medical assistance. If you have any doubts about seeking medical assistance after a sexual assault, contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate in Indonesia (see  Local contacts ) as quickly as possible.
• make a full statement to local police, in person, so they can conduct a criminal investigation. You may wish to seek consular help before you visit the police station. Contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate (see  Local contacts ).

Local police can only investigate a crime after you've left Indonesia if you've reported it.

Your sworn statement, or statements by witnesses, can be used as evidence in criminal court proceedings.

You don't always need to be in Indonesia for trial. Neither do witnesses who live outside of Indonesia.

Counselling support

Should you wish to speak to a counsellor, you can call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate (see  Local contacts ). They can connect you to counselling hotlines and services.

• Reducing the risk of sexual assault

Bars and nightclubs

Be alert in bars and nightclubs. Drink-spiking and snatching of valuables may occur if you're not alert.

Drinks may be contaminated with drugs or toxic substances. See  Health .

Don't leave your food or drinks unattended.

Never accept drinks, food, gum, cigarettes, vapes or e-cigarettes from people you've just met.

• Partying safely

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card, online banking and ATM fraud occurs in Indonesia.

Check your bank statements.

Make sure your bank doesn't block your cards. Tell your bank you'll be visiting Indonesia.

Never let your card out of your sight. This includes when you pay in restaurants.

Shield your PIN from sight.

Some vendors install hidden cameras and use card skimmers.

Don’t click on unknown links in WhatsApp or mobile phone text messages, particularly if your phone is linked to mobile banking.

Use ATMs at controlled and secure places, such as:

• shopping centres

Scams and confidence tricks

Beware of scams and confidence tricks.

Only exchange money at authorised money changers. Authorised money changers can also be found on the  Bali Foreign Exchange website . Unauthorised money changers have been known to scam foreign tourists in Bali and elsewhere.

All types of gambling are illegal in Indonesia.

Australians have lost large sums of money in card game scams run by organised gambling gangs, particularly in Bali. See Local laws

Some tourists have been robbed or planted with drugs after taking new acquaintances back to their hotel rooms. In some cases, their drinks were spiked.

Legal disputes over the purchase of real estate are common, including in Bali, involving:

• holiday clubs and resorts
• timeshare schemes

Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details:

• thoroughly research the proposal
• get legal advice and know your rights, especially before you sign any documents

Using taxis

Only use licensed official metered taxis. Crimes involving unregistered taxis include:

• taxis departing before the passenger can take their baggage from the vehicle
• taxi drivers robbing or temporarily holding passengers, including in urban areas
• taxi drivers forcing passengers to withdraw money at ATMs before releasing them

Lone female travellers are at higher risk of crime.

If you're in an incident involving a taxi, leave the taxi and the immediate area if it's safe to do so.

To protect yourself from overcharging and scams:

• only travel in licensed taxis with signage, a "taxi" roof sign and meters working
• ensure the driver's identification card is visible
• book via your phone, on an official taxi company mobile app, from inside an airport, or at stands at major hotels

See Travel .

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

On 7 February 2023, a New Zealand pilot was taken hostage by an armed group in Paro, Papua Pegunungan.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Adventure activities

Many businesses don't follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes transport and tour operators, water sports providers, hotels, restaurants and shops.

It may affect adventure activities, such as:

• bungee jumping
• scuba diving and snorkelling 
• chairlift or gondola rides

In the past, Australians have been seriously injured or died while participating in adventure activities. If you require intensive care medical treatment, emergency surgery or medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about safety, search and rescue procedures
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts
• check with your travel provider on vessel capacity limits before embarking on sea, land or air travel
• check weather and ocean conditions, and whether the vessel has had any mechanical issues, on the day and before continuing with water activities or sea travel
• check where the nearest medical facilities are

If proper safety equipment isn't available or you're unsure of the provider's safety or maintenance procedures, use another provider.

Trekking and climbing

Some mountain treks suit only experienced climbers. Travel with a guide and check the level of difficulty beforehand.

Many trekking options may be on or around an active volcano. Many of Indonesia's volcanoes are active and can erupt without warning. Volcanic and seismic activity may continue for some time. Adhere to exclusion zones around volcanoes, which can change at short notice, and follow the advice of local authorities. If you're planning to travel to an area near an active volcano, check with local authorities before climbing and check:

• Bureau of Meteorology  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre  
• MAGMA Indonesia  (Bahasa Indonesia) for daily updates on status and alert levels
• National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB)  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Swimming safety

People have drowned in coastal areas, including in Bali, due to rough seas, strong currents, or from swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving in areas where there is frequent passage of boats, resulting in collisions.

Local beach rescue services may not be of the same standard as in Australia.

Saltwater crocodiles are in rivers throughout Indonesia. Avoid swimming around river estuaries and seek local advice in other locations. 

If you plan to spend time in or on the water:

• regularly check weather reports as sea conditions can change rapidly
• take warnings seriously
• check media and local sources for information about potential dangers
• speak to your travel provider about safety equipment and weather conditions before continuing with planned activities
• take a friend or family member with you when you undertake swimming or water activities
• be careful when swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving near motor-powered boats or where there is frequent passage of boats
• ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities

Ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities.

Climate and natural disasters

Indonesia experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• landslides and mudslides
• volcanic eruptions
• earthquakes
• storms resulting in turbulent sea conditions
• tsunamis and high wave events

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in contact with family and friends
• check the media and local sources for information
• don't undertake sea, land or air travel if it's not safe to do so
• Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG)  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app  (English and Bahasa Indonesia) 

Floods and mudslides

Floods , landslides and mudslides occur regularly during the wet season from October to April, with some severe events resulting in injury, displacement, death or damaged infrastructure.

Heavy rains can cause significant flooding in urban areas, including the greater Jakarta region, causing disruption to transportation. Monitor the local media for updates.

Walking and driving in flooded areas can be dangerous. Flood waters may hide uncovered drainage ditches.

Volcanic activity may escalate with little or no notice, leading to flight disruptions and airport closures, including in surrounding provinces. Contact your airline for the latest flight information. 

There are 147 volcanoes in Indonesia. 76 of them are active volcanoes and could erupt at any time.

Volcanic alert levels and exclusion zones may rise quickly. You may be ordered to evacuate at short notice. Volcanic activity can disrupt domestic and international flights. There are 4 volcano alert levels in Indonesia; 1 - normal, 2 - advisory, 3 - watch, 4 - warning.

Before you travel to areas that are prone to volcanic activity, monitor media and ensure you read the Indonesian Government's latest advice on current volcanic activity, including:

• Volcanic Activity Report  by Indonesia's Multiplatform Application for Geohazard Mitigation and Assessment (MAGMA) (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Volcano Activity and Observatory Notices  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• MAGMA Indonesia Map of Latest Volcano Levels and Climate Information  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Bureau of Meteorology's  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre

If there's volcanic activity:

• avoid the area
• take official warnings seriously and adhere to exclusion zones
• follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
• follow evacuation orders
• read our advice on Volcanic eruptions while travelling

Volcanic ash can cause breathing difficulties. The risk is higher for people with chronic respiratory illnesses, including:

Recent and frequent volcanic activity has included:

• Mount Ile Lewetolok in East Nusa Tenggara (Nusa Tenggara Timur)
• Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in East Flores Regency, Nusa Tenggara Timur
• Mount Marapi in West Sumatra
• Mount Anak Krakatau, to the south of Sumatra
• Mount Merapi, near Yogyakarta
• Mt Dukono in North Sulawesi
• Mount Semeru, near Malang, East Java
• Mount Agung in Bali
• Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra

Some trekking routes are on or near active volcanoes, including Mount Agung and Mount Batur in Bali, Mount Marapi in West Sumatra, Mount Merapi near Yogyakarta, Mount Rinjani in Lombok, Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen in East Java. See 'Trekking and climbing'.

If you're planning to travel to an area near an active volcano, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance and check if any restrictions apply.

If a volcanic eruption occurs:

• make a backup plan in case you're affected
• contact your airline or travel insurer to confirm flight schedules and get help
• keep in touch with family and friends
• Learn more about  volcanic eruptions  (Geoscience Australia)
• See practical advice and information about  volcanic eruptions  (US CDC)
• See worldwide  volcanic activity reports  in real-time (GDACS)

Earthquakes

Indonesia is in an active earthquake region. It has a high level of earthquake activity, that sometimes triggers tsunamis.

There are approximately 4,000 earthquakes across Indonesia every year. Around 70 to 100 of these are over 5.5 magnitude.

Earthquakes can cause death, injury and significant damage to infrastructure.

Strong earthquakes can occur anywhere in Indonesia. They are less common in Kalimantan and south-west Sulawesi.

To stay safe during an earthquake:

• know the emergency plans at your accommodation
• take precautions to avoid exposure to debris and hazardous materials, including asbestos
• MAGMA Indonesia  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency  (Bahasa Indonesia) or BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app (English and Indonesia)
• Indonesia's Centre for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• US Federal Emergency Management Agency advice on what to do before, during and after an earthquake  (English)

Forest fires and smoke haze

During the dry season in April to November, widespread forest fires can cause smoke haze resulting in poor air quality across parts of Indonesia, particularly the Riau Islands, central Sumatra and Kalimantan.

Smoke haze could affect your health and travel plans.

Keep up to date with local information and seek medical advice on appropriate precautions.

• ASEAN Regional Haze Situation
• Smartraveller advice on Bushfires

Tsunamis and high wave events

The Indian and Pacific Oceans experience more frequent, large and destructive tsunamis than other parts of the world.

There are many large earthquakes along major tectonic plate boundaries and ocean trenches.

High wave events can happen throughout coastal regions and between islands. They're caused by strong weather conditions and storms.

If you plan to surf, undertake water activities or travel by sea, check local conditions regularly.

If there’s a tsunami or high wave event: 

• don't travel by sea if it's not safe to do so
• Indonesia Tsunami Early Warning Centre  issues warnings when a potential tsunami with significant impact is expected
• Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency  with the latest list of earthquakes with a magnitude greater than 5.0 on the Richter scale (Bahasa Indonesia) or  BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• US Federal Emergency Management Agency page  on what to do before, during and after an earthquake

Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Indonesia.

The  International Maritime Bureau (IMB)  issues weekly piracy reports.

If you decide to travel by boat in these regions:

• check  IMB piracy  reports
• get local advice
• arrange security measures
• Travelling by boat
• Going on a cruise
• International Maritime Bureau

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including emergency treatment and medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Before you travel, confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away, including on all forms of transport you plan to take
• whether it covers medical evacuation in the event of hospitalisation or injury
• any exclusions to your policy

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are illegal in Indonesia.

If you plan to bring over-the-counter or prescription medication, check if it's legal in Indonesia by contacting the  Indonesian Embassy in Canberra  well in advance of your planned travel. Take enough legal medicine for your trip and carry it in its original packaging. Purchasing prescription medication online in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller prior to your purchase.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for medical treatment or use

If you're caught with illegal medicine, you could face detention, fines or harsher penalties. You could face charges even if an Australian doctor prescribed the medication.

Ask the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra for advice before you travel.

Medicinal cannabis and cannabis-based products

Cannabis-based products such as cannabis oil and creams, hemp, CBD, THC, hash and edibles remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation or the death penalty.

• Medications

Health Risks

Critical care for Australians who become seriously ill, including in Bali, is significantly below the standard available in Australia. Medical evacuation may not be possible.

The Australian Government cannot guarantee your access to hospitals and other health services in Indonesia. 

Medical evacuation to Australia for medical conditions, is possible but is very expensive and may not be covered by travel insurance. Check your policy before you travel.

Ban on sale of liquid/syrup medication

The Indonesian Ministry of Health (MoH) has advised local health workers and pharmacists to stop selling liquid/syrup medication, including commonly used medications containing paracetamol and cough syrups. MoH and the Indonesian Paediatrician Association (IDAI) received reports of a sharp increase in cases of Atypical Progressive Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in children , especially under the age of 5 years.

Insect-borne illnesses

Insect-borne illnesses are common throughout the year.

To protect yourself from disease:

• research your destination
• ask locals for advice
• make sure your accommodation is mosquito-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Dengue  occurs throughout Indonesia, including Bali, Jakarta and other major cities.

Dengue is common during the rainy season.

Australian health authorities have reported an increase in dengue infections in people returning from Bali in recent years.

There are now two dengue vaccines, but they are not currently available in Australia. For further information, contact your doctor.

Zika virus  can occur in Indonesia.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

The  Australian Department of Health and Aged Care  advises pregnant women to:

• discuss any travel plans with their doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Malaria , including chloroquine-resistant strains, is widespread in rural areas, particularly in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah, Papua Selatan, Papua Barat Daya, Papua Barat, Maluku and Nusa Tenggara Timur. There is no malaria transmission in Jakarta.

• Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Japanese encephalitis and filariasis

Japanese encephalitis  and  filariasis  occur in Indonesia, especially in rural agricultural areas.

Japanese encephalitis has been present in Australian travellers returning from Indonesia, including Bali.

Vaccination is recommended for certain groups of travellers. 

• Infectious diseases

Drink poisoning

People have been poisoned by alcoholic drinks contaminated with harmful substances, including methanol and arak (a traditional rice-based spirit). Locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died or become seriously ill from poisoned drinks.

Cases of drink poisoning have been reported in Bali and Lombok.

Contaminated drinks have included:

• local spirits
• spirit-based drinks, such as cocktails
• brand name alcohol

To protect yourself from drink poisoning:

• consider the risks when drinking alcoholic beverages
• be careful drinking cocktails and drinks made with spirits
• drink only at reputable licensed premises
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks

Labels on bottles aren't always accurate.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning can be similar to drinking too much. However, they are usually stronger.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning include:

• vision problems

Vision problems may include:

• blindness, blurred or snowfield vision
• changes in colour perception
• difficulty looking at bright lights
• dilated pupils
• flashes of light
• tunnel vision

If you suspect that you or someone you're travelling with may have been poisoned, act quickly. Urgent medical attention could save your life or save you from permanent disability.

Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the Indonesian police.

Magic mushrooms

Don't consume magic mushrooms. They're illegal.

Australians have become sick or injured after taking magic mushrooms.

Australians have been in trouble with local police after taking magic mushrooms, particularly in Bali.

Magic mushrooms can cause major health problems, including:

• erratic behaviour
• severe hallucinations

Rabies is a risk throughout Indonesia, especially in:

• Nusa Tenggara Timur, including Labuan Bajo
• South Sulawesi
• West Kalimantan
• Nias, off the west coast of Sumatra

To protect yourself from rabies:

• avoid direct contact with dogs
• don't feed or pat animals
• avoid contact with other animals, including bats and monkeys.

Talk to your doctor about getting a pre-exposure rabies vaccination. 

If bitten or scratched by an animal:

• immediately use soap and water to wash the wound thoroughly for 15 minutes
• seek urgent medical attention.

Rabies treatment in Indonesia may be limited, including the rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin availability. If you're bitten, you may need to return to Australia or travel to another country for immediate treatment.

You're at risk of contracting rabies if you visit a market where live animals and fresh food are sold because:

• live rabies-positive dogs may be present
• rabies-positive dog meat may be sold as food

Selling dog meat for human consumption is a breach of government disease control regulations.

Avoid contact with monkeys, even in places where you're encouraged to interact with them. This includes:

• popular markets
• tourist destinations
• sanctuaries

Legionnaires' disease

Cases of Legionnaires' disease have been reported in people who have travelled to Bali. Travellers who are unwell with flu-like symptoms within 10 days of returning from Bali are advised to consult their GPs.

• Legionnaires' disease warning for Bali travellers  (Western Australian Government Department of Health) 
• Legionnaires’ disease  (Better Health Channel, Victorian Government Department of Health)
• Legionnaires' disease  (World Health Organization)

Cases of poliovirus (type 1) have been reported in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan. Poliovirus (type 2) cases have been reported in the provinces of Aceh, East, West and Central Java. There may be unreported cases in other provinces in Indonesia.

Ensure that you're vaccinated against polio.

• Factsheet on poliovirus types  (World Health Organization)
• Health emergencies information for Indonesia  (World Health Organization)

Periodic outbreaks of measles continue to be reported in Indonesia, including Bali.

You need 2 doses of vaccine 4 weeks apart to be fully vaccinated against measles.

If you have symptoms of measles, seek medical attention.

Measles is highly infectious. Call before attending a healthcare facility.

Nipah Virus and Yellow Fever

There are no cases of  Nipah virus  or  Yellow Fever  in Indonesia. You may be temperature checked on arrival at international and domestic airports. If you have fever symptoms, you may be referred to the airport clinic for further tests and asked to seek medical treatment. See your doctor or travel clinic before you travel to plan any vaccinations you need.

HIV/AIDS is a risk for travellers. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are widespread. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• boil drinking water or drink bottled water
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw food, such as salads

To minimise the risk of food poisoning, only eat meat from reputable suppliers.

Seek urgent medical attention if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Seafood toxins

You can become sick from naturally occurring seafood toxins, including:

• ciguatera fish poisoning
• scombroid (histamine fish poisoning)
• toxins in shellfish

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos. The dye often causes serious skin reactions.

Before you get any tattoo, check the hygiene and safety of your tattoo provider.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities in Indonesia is generally lower than Australia. Many regional hospitals only provide basic facilities.

Hospitals expect families to provide support to patients, including all financial support.

Psychiatric and psychological services are limited in Indonesia. Hospital staff may use physical restraints on patients.

When diving in Indonesia, there is a risk that you may experience decompression illness. An illness may occur when a diver ascends to the water surface too quickly and may have severe consequences. Understand the risks before you dive. 

Decompression chambers are available in various areas, including the following locations:

• Bali's Sanglah General Hospital
• Siloam Hospital in Labuan Bajo
• Hospitals in Jakarta, Balikpapan, Bintan, Medan, Makassar, Raja Ampat (Waisai), Maluku, Tual and Manado near popular dive sites 

Before admitting patients, hospitals usually need:

• guarantee of payment from the patient or their next of kin (family or friend)
• confirmation of medical insurance
• deposit payment 

There's no reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and Indonesia. 

The Australian Government cannot provide guarantee of payment, confirmation of medical insurance or a deposit payment for services.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Check your insurance policy before you travel. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs. It's best to check with your travel provider on the location and functionality of decompression chambers and other medical facilities available in the area before undertaking remote travel.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Indonesian Parliament has passed revisions to its criminal code, which includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions will not come into force until January 2026.

Indonesia has signed into law revisions to the Electronic and Information Transactions Law (ITE Law). Tough penalties apply for defamation, hate speech, spreading hoaxes and uploading immoral content to the Internet. The law applies both within and outside Indonesia.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

• Arrested or jailed

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.

You may face heavy fines or jail for consuming or possessing even small amounts of drugs, including marijuana. Cannabis-based products such as cannabis oil and cream, hemp, CBD, THC, hash and edibles remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation or the death penalty.

Some prescription medications that are available in Australia are illegal in Indonesia. Purchasing prescription medication online or over the counter in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller before your purchase.

Magic mushrooms are illegal. Indonesian police work to prevent their distribution.

Police target illegal drug use and possession across Indonesia. Police often target popular places and venues in Bali, Lombok and Jakarta.

• Carrying or using drugs

Local labour laws can change at short notice. This can affect expatriate workers.

Under Indonesian law, you must always carry identification. For example, your:

• Australian passport; and
• Resident's Stay Permit (if applicable)

Gambling is illegal.

Property laws are strict, seek legal advice before acquiring property in Indonesia.

It's sometimes illegal to take photographs in Indonesia. Obey signs banning photography. If in doubt, get advice from local officials. See Safety .

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Indonesia. Take care not to offend.

Find out what customs apply at your destination.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

LGBTI information

Same-sex relationships are legal in Indonesia, except in the province of Aceh. Same-sex relationships in Aceh may attract corporal punishment. Visible displays of same sex relationships could draw unwanted attention.

Some laws and regulations can be applied in a way that discriminates against the LGBTI community, including for pornography and prostitution.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan  is observed in Indonesia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during this time. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence and follow the advice of local authorities.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Aceh is governed as a special territory, not a province, and has a degree of special autonomy.

Some aspects of sharia law are upheld. This includes regulations and punishments that don't apply in other parts of Indonesia.

Local sharia police enforce sharia law.

Sharia law applies to anyone in Aceh, including:

• foreigners (expats and travellers)
• non-Muslims

Sharia law doesn't allow:

• drinking alcohol
• prostitution
• same-sex relationships
• extra-marital sex
• co-habitation before marriage

It also requires a conservative standard of dress.

Learn about the laws in Aceh. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Dual citizenship

Indonesia doesn't allow dual nationality for adults, and you may be prosecuted by Immigration authorities should you be found to hold valid passports of two nationalities. If you entered Indonesia on your non-Australian citizenship passport, Indonesian Immigration will require you to exit Indonesia on that nationality's passport.

A child of Indonesian and Australian parents can maintain citizenship of both countries until the age of 18 years. Before a dual Australian-Indonesian citizen minor travels from Indonesia, additional identity documentation may be required from Indonesian Immigration. Check with Indonesian Immigration or the  Indonesian Embassy in Canberra  well in advance of your planned travel.

• Embassy and Consulate of Indonesia
• Information on limited dual citizenship
• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Bali Tourism Levy

The Bali Provincial Government has introduced a new tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person to foreign tourists entering Bali. The tourist levy is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival or the Visa on Arrival. Cashless payments can be made online prior to travel or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali's airport and seaport. Exemption from payment of the levy applies to transit passengers and certain visa holders. See the Bali Provincial Government's  official website and FAQs for further information.

e-Visa on Arrival and Visa on Arrival

You can  apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)  no later than 48 hours prior to travelling to Indonesia if you are travelling for tourism, business meetings, purchasing goods or transiting only. Check the e-VOA requirements from Indonesian Immigration before applying.

You can still apply for a regular Visa on Arrival (VOA) at certain international airports, seaports and land crossings, including Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, Makassar, Lombok, Batam, Medan, Manado, Aceh, Padang, Tanjung Pinang and Yogyakarta, if you do not apply for an e-VOA at least 48 hours in advance of your travel to Indonesia.

The e-VOA or VOA can be used for tourism, official government duties, business meetings, or to transit through Indonesia. You cannot transit in Indonesia without an e-VOA or VOA.

Additional requirements apply if you are travelling on government duties.

For the latest list of entry points for the e-VOA or VOA, refer to the  Directorate General of Immigration's list of land border crossings, international airports, and international seaports .

The e-VOA and VOA cost IDR 500,000 (approximately $A 50), with the e-VOA charging a small online processing fee.

For the VOA, some airports, including Jakarta's international airport, are only accepting cash payment. Card payment facilities are available at Bali's international airport. ATM facilities may be in high demand. Be prepared to pay in cash if required. 

The visa is valid for a 30 day stay and can be extended once (for a maximum of 30 days) by applying at an immigration office within Indonesia. Ensure you extend your visa within the initial 30 days to avoid an overstay fine and deportation.

To apply for a regular VOA, you must show:

• your ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter (we also recommend having at least 6 months passport validity from the date you plan to leave Indonesia, to avoid any issues for your departure or onward travel) 
• a return flight booking to Australia or onward flight booking to another country

Contact your travel agent, airline, or your nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  for details.

Other visas

If you're entering Indonesia from a port or airport that does not issue a visa on arrival, or you're visiting Indonesia for a purpose not allowed under the e-VOA or VOA conditions, you must apply for a visa in advance of travel. Check the  Indonesian Immigration  website for further information, or contact your nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia .

Overstaying your permit may result in fines, detention and/or deportation.

• check your visa and permit, and contact the Directorate General of Immigration (DGI) for advice specific to your needs
• if you use an agent to extend your visa or stay permit, use only reputable companies
• if you have specific enquiries on visas or stay permits, contact DGI's Customer Service team via WhatsApp on +62 821 1295 3298

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and entry rules.

You can't work or conduct research in Indonesia unless you have the appropriate visa. Fines of IDR1,000,000 (approx. $A 100) per day apply for the maximum 60 day overstay period.

If you breach Indonesian immigration regulations, you may face:

• deportation
• re-entry bans

You may not be allowed to enter Indonesia if you have a criminal record. This is regardless of how long ago the offence took place. If you're concerned, contact an Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia before you travel.

Indonesian Immigration and visa decisions are final. The Australian Government can't help you.

• Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia

Border measures

You'll be required to complete an  e-customs declaration for arrival . You can complete this within 3 days of departure to Indonesia.

Check entry requirements with your travel provider or the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  before you travel.

You may be temperature checked on arrival at international and domestic airports. If you have fever symptoms, you may be referred to the airport clinic for further tests and asked to seek medical treatment. See your doctor or travel clinic before you travel to plan any vaccinations you need.

Departure from Indonesia

Indonesia, including Bali, currently has an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease affecting animals. In preparing to travel to Australia, read Smartraveller's advice on  biosecurity and border controls . Measures include cleaning dirty shoes, clothing or equipment before boarding your flight to Australia and not packing meat or dairy products. On your Incoming Passenger Declaration, you must declare any meat, dairy or animal products and any of your travel in rural areas or near animals (e.g., farms, zoos, markets).

Other formalities

If you're staying in a private residence, not a hotel, register when you arrive with both:

• the local Rukun Tetangga Office
• local police

If you plan to be in Indonesia for more than 30 days:

• register with the local immigration office
• make sure you have the right visa
• Embassy of Indonesia in Canberra

Indonesia won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave Indonesia. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over. You can end up stranded or returned back to your previous port overseas at your own cost, if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months from the date you enter and the date you plan to leave Indonesia.

Indonesia does not accept entry with an emergency passport, even if it is valid for more than 6 months. Ensure you enter Indonesia on a valid ordinary, official, or diplomatic passport.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply these rules inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission.

Damaged Passports

Indonesian authorities have strict standards for damaged passports, and travellers have been refused entry into Indonesia with a damaged passport. Normal wear and tear, including water damage, minor tears or rips to the pages, can be considered damaged. 

It's important that:

• there are no tears or cuts in the passport pages, especially the photo page
• everything on the photo page is legible and clear
• there are no marks across your photo or in the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) on the photo page
• no pages have been removed
• there is no alteration or tampering

If you're not sure about the condition of your passport, call the Australian Passport Office on 131 232 or contact your nearest  Australian embassy or consulate overseas . We may need to see your passport to assess it.

• Passport Services  
• Damaged and faulty passports  
• Using and protecting your passport  

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).

Declare cash in excess of IDR100,000,000 or equivalent when you arrive and leave. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

IDR100,000,000 is worth about $A10,000.

Local travel

Idul fitri 2024.

The Idul Fitri holiday period will take place from 10 April. Many people will travel across Indonesia until 22 April, with many expected to move in and out of the greater Jakarta area. This may impact traffic and public transport, including airports, seaports, highways, toll roads, train and bus stations across Indonesia. Airports are expected to be busy. Plan your travel carefully and prepare for significant delays. Contact your travel provider for up-to-date details.

Travel Permits

You may need a travel permit or Surat Keterangan Jalan to travel to some areas of the Papua provinces.

Check if you need a permit with the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  or with your travel provider.

Mobile Phone Reception and Wi-Fi

Mobile phone reception and Wi-Fi are not always available, including in remote areas and some resort islands. 

If you plan to stay in Indonesia for more than 90 days and would like to use your mobile phone purchased overseas, you'll need to register your mobile phone IMEI number with  Indonesian Customs  within the first 60 days of your stay. 

If you plan to stay in Indonesia for less than 90 days, you can visit the local cellular operator/provider booth at the airport to get an access period to use the Indonesian cellular network, which is only valid for 90 days and includes data roaming.

A customs payment may be required, or a tourist SIM card can be purchased for short-term stays. You can use Wi-Fi networks without registration.

To stay in communication and avoid mobile service interruptions: 

• check mobile coverage with your service provider
• register your mobile device with  Indonesian Customs  on arrival if you plan to connect to the mobile network 

Driving permit

To drive in Indonesia, you need either:

• an Indonesian licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Check that your licence or permit is appropriate for the type of vehicle you're driving.

Your Australian licence isn't enough.

Your travel insurer will deny any claims you make if:

• you're unlicensed
• you don't hold the correct class of licence

Road travel

Traffic can be extremely congested.

Road users are often unpredictable or undisciplined.

You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Indonesia than in Australia. Drive defensively. Some traffic incidents can escalate into violent disputes quickly.

Consider hiring a taxi or a driver who is familiar with local roads and traffic conditions.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Motorcycle accidents have killed and injured foreigners, including Australians. This includes in tourist areas, particularly Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands.

If you're riding a motorbike and there's an accident, you'll often be assumed to be at fault. You may be expected to compensate all parties.

If you hire a motorbike:

• make sure your insurance policy covers you
• check if any policy restrictions apply, for example if you're not licensed to ride a motorcycle in Australia

Always wear a helmet.

Public transport

Buses, trains and the metro rail can be crowded, particularly:

• around public holidays
• during peak commute times

Safety standards may not be observed.

• Transport and getting around safely

Only use licensed official metered taxis. 

• only travel in licensed taxis with signage, a "taxi" roof sign and meters
• book via phone or an official taxi company mobile app

You can book licensed official metered taxis

• on the taxi company's official mobile app
• from inside airports
• at stands at major hotels

Unofficial operators can have taxis that look similar to those run by reputable companies. Make sure the taxi meter is working before you get into the taxi. 

See  Safety .

Rail travel

Inter-city rail networks operate on the islands of Java, Sumatra and Sulawesi.

Commuter trains operate in Java, including Jakarta.

Trains can be crowded, particularly:

• during peak commuter times

Travel between islands

Travel by ferry or boat can be dangerous.

Passenger and luggage limits aren't always observed.

Equipment may not be properly maintained, and they may not have GPS or emergency communications equipment.

There may not be enough life jackets. It's unlikely that the crew will have life jackets for children.

In March 2024, a ferry sank in the Thousand Islands off the coast of Jakarta, resulting in one death, and a liveaboard boat caught fire and sank in Raja Ampat, Papua Barat Daya, requiring several passengers to be rescued.

In August 2023, two crew died after a boat carrying passengers sank in the Banyak Islands, Aceh, and three people went missing after a ship sank in the Thousand Islands off the coast of Jakarta.

In July 2023, 15 people died after a ferry sank off Sulawesi Island.

In January 2023, 23 passengers and 6 crew were rescued after an inter-island ferry sank while returning from Nusa Penida to Sanur Beach, Bali.

In May 2022, 19 people died after a ferry sank in the Makassar Strait.

In June 2018, a ferry sank on Lake Toba in Sumatra and 100s of people died.

If you plan to travel by sea between islands:

• make sure any ferry or boat you board has appropriate safety equipment, GPS and communication equipment, and life jackets
• wear a life jacket at all times
• take enough life jackets for all children travelling with you
• ask your tour operator or crew about safety standards before you travel
• check sea, weather conditions and forecasts before embarking on boat or ferry travel, and delay travel if conditions are not safe

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Avoid travelling by water after dark unless the vessel is properly equipped. Avoid travel during wet weather or storms.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Indonesia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that have operating bans or restrictions within the EU. See the  EU list of banned airlines .

Australian travellers should make their own decisions on which airlines to travel with.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Search and rescue services

Medical emergencies and ambulance.

SMS 1717 for Jakarta Police

Police Stations in Bali

Refer to the Bali Tourism Board’s list of  police stations in Bali

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Jakarta 

Jalan Patra Kuningan Raya Kav. 1-4 Jakarta Selatan 12950

Phone: (+62 21) 2550 5555 Email: [email protected] Website: indonesia.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy Jakarta, Indonesia X: @DubesAustralia Instagram: @KeDubesAustralia

Make an appointment online or call (+62 21) 2550 5500 or (+62 21) 2550 5555.

Australian Consulate-General, Bali

Jalan Tantular 32 Renon Denpasar Bali 80234

Phone: (+62 361) 2000 100 Email: [email protected] Website: bali.indonesia.embassy.gov.au X: @KonJenBali Instagram:  @konjenbali

Australian Consulate-General, Makassar

Wisma Kalla Lt. 7 Jalan Dr Sam Ratulangi No. 8 Makassar South Sulawesi 90125

Phone: (+62 411) 366 4100 Email: [email protected] Website: makassar.consulate.gov.au Facebook: Australian Consulate-General, Makassar, Sulawesi X: @KonJenMakassar Instagram:  @konjenmakassar

Australian Consulate-General, Surabaya

Level 3 ESA Sampoerna Center Jl. Dokter.Ir. H. Soekarno No. 198 Klampis Ngasem, Sukolilo, Surabaya

Phone: (+62 31) 9920 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: surabaya.consulate.gov.au Instagram: @KonJenSurabaya

Check the websites for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Indonesia travel advice

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Last updated: April 12, 2024 09:05 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, indonesia - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia due to political and social tensions and the threat of terrorism throughout the country.

Indonesian Papua - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to all the provinces of Indonesia Papua due to the regular occurrence of violent incidents, threats made against foreigners by militant groups and risk of kidnapping.

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• Indonesian Papua

Political tension and regular violent incidents continue to occur in Indonesian Papua.

In February 2023, militant groups threatened to attack and take hostages, specifically referencing foreigners. You may also face increased threats of violence or kidnapping if you travel to Indonesian Papua.

Labour disputes at the Freeport-McMoRan mine near Timika have led to demonstrations, public transportation disruptions and violence.

Fatal attacks have occurred on roads near the mine. Foreigners have been targeted by local militants.

There is a heightened police and military presence in this area.

There is a threat of terrorism in Indonesia.

While effective counterterrorism measures by Indonesian authorities are in place, terrorist cells are active and have the capacity to carry out attacks throughout the country.

Attacks have targeted:

• military and government facilities
• tourist attractions and popular public places
• nightclubs and entertainment venues
• public transportation

Further attacks are likely, and terrorists may also target:

• crowded places
• places with high pedestrian traffic and where foreigners may gather
• commercial establishments
• local government offices
• public transit stations
• busy streets
• long lineups at tourist attractions
• places of worship

Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, including metal detectors, guards and security cameras. Keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk.

Be particularly vigilant during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

• Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places and identify ways to leave the area in case of emergency
• Monitor local media
• Follow the instructions of the local authorities

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as armed robberies, occurs regularly. Be particularly cautious on the road from Banda Aceh to Medan, where armed robberies have occurred.

Foreigners travelling alone and those travelling at night are at particular risk.

Standards of police services differ considerably from those in Canada.

• Avoid showing signs of affluence
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• If you’re travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs throughout Indonesia, specifically in tourist areas, such as Bali and Lombok. Criminals sometimes force people to withdraw cash from ATMs.

Merchants don’t always honour pricing agreements. Use good judgment in engaging services of tourist guides, especially in places that tourists rarely visit.

There is a threat of kidnapping, particularly in the provinces of Indonesian Papua and Aceh province. Foreign travellers have been kidnapped and killed. Terrorist groups have also kidnapped tourists in East and West Kalimantan.

• Be extra vigilant if travelling in these areas
• Avoid travelling alone and after dusk
• Use varied routes and schedules when moving from one place to another

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may face some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Political and social tension

There are long-standing sectarian and social tensions throughout Indonesia, particularly in the provinces of:

• Central Sulawesi, in Palu, Poso and Tentena
• Maluku, especially in Ambon

Sectarian violence targeting civilians has occurred. The potential for violence remains, despite ongoing security operations efforts from local authorities. Be aware of your surroundings.

There is a very high rate of credit and debit card fraud in Indonesia, including online fraud.

 When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Romance scams

If you’re travelling to Indonesia to meet someone you’ve only met online, keep it mind that you may be the victim of a scam. Be wary of unsolicited emails or requests for a wire transfer.

Don’t send money to someone you have never met in person.

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Even if the wrapping or container appears intact, snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

People have died after drinking methanol-adulterated alcohol. Counterfeits of well-known alcohol brands often contain dangerous amounts of methanol. Poisoning incidents have happened at hotels, bars, and shops in tourist areas like Bali, Lombok, the Gili Islands and Sumatra.

• Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
• Be wary of lesser-known or illegal brands
• Avoid buying alcohol from individuals
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety vary greatly throughout the country. Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy season.

Road travel in Indonesia can be very challenging due to:

• reckless driving
• perilous road conditions
• inadequate lighting
• poor signage
• high traffic congestion

If you plan to rent a car, consider hiring a driver.

Avoid driving after dark outside of major cities or major roads as some drivers do not use lights.

You may face mob anger if you are involved in an accident that causes serious injury. In such cases, remain in your vehicle and wait for a police officer to arrive.

Motorcycles and scooters

Motorcycle and scooter accidents are the main cause of death and serious injury among foreigners visiting many parts of Indonesia, including Bali.

Rental motorcycles are also often targeted and stolen. In such cases, you may have to pay the replacement cost for a new motorcycle.

Public transport

Public transport can be crowded and safety standards are poor. Many remote parts of Indonesia have poor transportation networks.

Crashes involving overcrowded buses are common. Large buses are generally available only on Java. Minibuses are available elsewhere.

If you choose to travel by bus,

• keep in mind that minibus drivers may try to overcharge foreigners
• keep your belongings secure due to pickpocketing

The condition of taxis varies. Foreign travellers using taxis have been victims of armed robbery, either by the driver or other passengers.

• Pre-arrange transportation with a safe and reliable taxi company
• Only use a taxi company whose vehicles are equipped with a meter
• Never enter a cab if it already has one or more passengers
• Don’t hail taxis off the street and avoid using unmarked taxi services

Reliable taxis are available from Bluebird, Thunderbird and Express. Be careful of “lookalike” taxis from competitors.

Ferry accidents are common and are often caused by poor safety practices or extreme weather conditions.

If you choose to travel by ferry:

• make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
• don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
• verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Indonesian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry into Indonesia and must contain at least one blank page for the placement of the Indonesian visa or entry stamp.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Social-cultural visit visa: required

Indonesia strictly enforces its immigration and visa requirements. Foreign travellers have been detained in immigration detention centres for visa violations or overstays. Those in violation may be subject to substantial fines and deportation.

A round-trip or onward airline ticket is required to obtain all types of visas.

Tourist visa

If you are travelling for tourism with a regular Canadian passport, you may obtain a visa in advance or on arrival at select points of entry.

Business and social-cultural visas

If you are travelling to Indonesia for business or social-cultural purposes (e.g. volunteer work), you must obtain a visa prior to your arrival. You must provide a letter from both the sponsoring organization in Indonesia and the sending organization in Canada to obtain your visa.

A business or social-cultural single-entry visa is extendable from within Indonesia.

Aid workers

Aid workers must have a sponsor in Indonesia to obtain a visa. Those going to Aceh also require prior authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Aceh or Jakarta.

Journalists

Journalists visiting Indonesia for reporting and filming purposes must obtain authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Jakarta before applying for a visa.

Directorate General of Immigration  – Ministry of Law and Human Rights of Indonesia

Restricted areas

You must obtain a permit to travel to Indonesian Papua.

Entry regulations and permission to remain in Indonesian  Papua may change at any time.

Other entry requirements

Starting February 14, 2024, tourists entering Bali will be subject to a new tax, the Love Bali Tourist Levy. This fee will be in addition to the visa fees paid to enter Indonesia.

If your are travelling to Bali, you must pay directly though the Provincial Government of Bali website.

Levy for Foreign Tourists – Provincial Government of Bali

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Polio: Advice for travellers - 4 January, 2024
• Mpox (monkeypox): Advice for travellers - 20 February, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre

* It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Lymphatic filariasis , also known as elephantiasis, is caused by filariae (tiny worms) spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause a range of illnesses. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine available for lymphatic filariasis although drug treatments exist.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Heath care is inadequate.

Most medical staff don’t speak English or French. You may have to pay in advance, in cash, to obtain medical services.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Overview of the criminal law system in Indonesia  

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences. They can also be detained for long periods, without the possibility of release on bail, while police conduct investigations prior to prosecution.

Police have arrested tourists after random drug testing throughout the country.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in Canada, such as those containing morphine and codeine, are classified as controlled substances in Indonesia. It’s illegal to bring them into the country, even in small quantities, without prior permission from the Indonesian Ministry of Health and the required documentation.

If you attempt to bring banned pharmaceuticals into Indonesia without prior authorization and proper documentation, Indonesian authorities may confiscate them. You may also be subject to fines and imprisonment.

In some areas, Islamic practices and beliefs closely adhere to local customs, laws and regulations.

Religious police enforce sharia law in Aceh. Specific applications of sharia may differ by region and apply to non-Muslims as well.

Be aware of the relevant provisions specifically related to the region, regardless of your religion.

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Indonesian national law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex. However, they are prohibited and punishable under local laws in some provinces.

In Aceh, Sharia law is enforced and sexual acts between Muslim individuals of the same sex is punished by caning. They could also face arrest under charges related to immoral behaviour, prostitution or social ills.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

2SLGBTQI+ individuals should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Indonesia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship 

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Indonesia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Indonesia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Indonesia allows minors to carry dual citizenship until the age of 18. After this time, they must choose between their Indonesian citizenship and foreign citizenship.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Indonesia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Indonesia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Indonesia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Imports and exports

Local customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary import or export of items such as audiovisual material.

Gambling is illegal in Indonesia.

Identification

You must carry adequate identification, such as your passport and your stay permit, at all times.

You may be detained and fined if you don’t have the original on you.

Traffic drives on the left.

You must carry an International Driving Permit along with your Canadian driver’s licence.

If you got your International Driving Permit outside of Indonesia, local authorities may ask to approve it.

If you’re involved in an accident, you must stop and exchange information with and provide assistance to other drivers.

• International Driving Permit registration  – Traffic Police, Government of Indonesia (in Indonesian)
• More about the International Driving Permit

The currency is the rupiah (IDR).

Credit cards are not widely accepted outside of large urban centres and tourist areas.

Carry cash when visiting remote areas.

Earthquake in the Java Sea

On March 22, 2024, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake occurred near Bawean Island in the Java Sea, resulting in damage to infrastructure and some casualties.

Transportation and access to essential services could also be disrupted in. Aftershocks may occur.

If you’re in or around the affected areas:

• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Indonesia is located in a very active seismic zone. It's prone to a multitude of natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, volcanic eruptions and drought.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Each year, Indonesia experiences thousands of earthquakes. Some trigger tsunamis and cause significant damage. Deaths and injuries occasionally occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you're staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region's evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

• Earthquakes  - What to Do?
• Tsunami alerts - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Indonesia has 129 active volcanoes and periodically experiences major volcanic events that can be dangerous, even life-threatening. Ash clouds can disrupt air travel, including on the island of Bali, and cause or worsen respiratory problems.

Active volcanoes are monitored to provide residents with an early warning should unusual activity occur. Local authorities can raise alert levels and order evacuations on short notice.

If you are near active volcanoes:

• take official warnings seriously and respect exclusion zones
• monitor local media to stay up-to-date on latest developments
• follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice
• National Disaster Management Authority
• Map of active volcanoes in Indonesia – MAGMA Indonesia

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from November to March, but heavy rains are common throughout the year. Flooding and landslides can occur with little warning, especially in remote areas where extensive deforestation is common, but also in major cities, including Jakarta. Such incidents have led to fatalities and destruction of property.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Be aware of health risks associated with flood waters
• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts as well as road closures or detours
• Avoid disaster areas
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons

Air pollution

Unrestricted burning in Sumatra and Kalimantan sometimes causes air pollution to rise to unhealthy levels, especially from June to October.

Monitor air pollution levels closely, as they change quickly.

During periods of high pollution:

• limit your activities outdoors
• monitor local media

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 110 for police.

Research and carry contact information for local medical facilities.

Consular assistance

Timor-Leste

There is no Canadian government office in Bali. You can obtain consular assistance from the Australian Consulate General of Australia, in Bali, under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement.

Sign up to receive email updates from the Australian government on situations and events that could affect your safety while in Bali.

Smartraveller  - Australian travel advice

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Indonesia, in Jakarta, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Is this your first time applying for a visa and/or visiting our site?

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In indonesia.

Select here to learn more about an important update on waivers of the interview requirements of certain nonimmigrant visa applicants.

For security reasons, the barcode on your Online Non-immigrant Visa Application Confirmation (DS-160 Confirmation Number) must match the DS-160 Confirmation Number printed on your Appointment Confirmation letter. Please ensure that your Online Visa Application Confirmation (DS-160) barcode is updated in the appointment system at least 48 hours in advance of your appointment. Please print a new Appointment Confirmation to reflect any updates.

Effective October 1, 2023, if you come to your visa appointment with an Online Visa Application Confirmation (DS-160) barcode that does not match the one on your Appointment Confirmation letter, you will not be allowed to enter the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate and will need to make a new appointment. Failure to present a DS-160 Confirmation page with the same barcode number that you used for scheduling your appointment will result in the cancellation of your visa interview appointment.

For assistance updating your appointment with the correct barcode, please click here or contact a customer service representative at +62 21 3071 7631 and +62 889 7717 0660 or via email at [email protected] in Indonesia or +1 703 520 2237 internationally.

All receipts for payment of Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fees issued before October 1, 2022, expired September 30, 2023. There will be no extensions of fee validity. Applicants must have scheduled an appointment or submitted an interview waiver application before September 30, 2023 to avoid paying a new fee. If you paid the MRV fee on or after October 1, 2022, you must have scheduled the appointment within one year of your MRV payment date. Please note that the interview itself does not need to take place within one year, but an interview appointment needs to be made in the system, even if it is scheduled months into the future. Furthermore, applicants using MRV fees paid before October 1, 2022 to book an appointment are cautioned not to attempt to change their appointment dates on or after October 1, 2023. Doing so will result in forfeiture of both the original appointment slot and the MRV fee receipt. The applicant will be required to pay a new fee and submit a new application package.

Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for Indonesia. On this website you can find information about U.S. immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and the requirements to apply for each. You can also learn how to pay the required visa application fee, and book an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta or the U.S. Consulate General in Surabaya.

This is the official visa information website of the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia.

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Qatar is welcoming 102 countries visa-free, check your visa status here .

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AFC U23 Asian Cup 2024

The sixth edition of this exciting football championship for players under 23 years of age will take place in Qatar this 2024. The event will be hosted at stadiums in Doha, Al Wakrah and Al Rayyan. 

Multiple locations *

15 april – 3 may.

* Locations include: Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium, Al Janoub Stadium, Khalifa International Stadium and Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.

Catch the match day fever

The 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup is a spectacular biennial competition organised by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Hosted in Qatar for the second time since 2016, see all the thrilling knockout rounds where up-and-coming talent will compete to qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics. A total of 16 teams will take part to beat defending champions Saudi Arabia.

See who your national team will be up against

Here are the opponents your heroes will take on to be crowned the U23 football kings of Asia. The top three finishers will qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, while the fourth-placed team will participate in a play-off against an opponent from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), for a chance to compete at the Olympics.

Saudi Arabia

Korea Republic

United Arab Emirates

THE STAGE IS SET | MATCH LINEUP 

Check out the match line-up of the 16 qualified teams, drawn into four groups of four. Mark your calendar for these key dates:

Group stages | 15 – 23 April 2024

Quarter-finals | 25 – 26 April 2024

Semi-finals | 29 April 2024

3rd / 4th places | 2 May 2024

Final | 3 May 2024

Looking back at AFC U23 in 2016

The 2016 AFC U-23 Championship (also known as the 2016 AFC U-23 Asian Cup) was held in Qatar between 12–30 January 2016. In the final match, substitute Takuma Asano came off the bench to score twice and earn Japan a dramatic 3-2 win over Korea Republic. Take a look back at the action.

Qatar is the home of football action

Qatar has been abuzz with football action for more than thirty years, reaching the pinnacle of excitement by hosting the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and AFC Asian Cups in 1988, 2011 and most recently from January to February of 2024. Learn more about how Qatar back the love of sport and other important global sports events.

Qatar stadiums hosting AFC U-23 games

Qatar is home to some of the world’s most advanced and beautiful stadiums. Take a closer look at the four iconic stadiums hosting this year’s championship games.

Khalifa International Stadium

Al Janoub Stadium

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium

Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium

See more of qatar’s during your stay.

Make the most of your visit to Qatar with an itinerary filled with Doha’s most iconic sights. Then indulge in some of the world’s finest cuisines before finding rest at your dream hotel

The St. Regis Doha

JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

Morimoto Doha

La Mar by Gastón Acurio

National Museum of Qatar

The Pearl-Qatar

Other exciting upcoming events in qatar.

Discover our exciting events calendar to plan more unforgettable sporting experiences.

Eid Al Fitr Celebration in Qatar

Apr 15 - Apr 22

16th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup - Taishan

Apr 19 - Apr 20

Things to know before travelling

Want to travel visa-free? Check if you qualify here.

Getting here

Planning your trip to Qatar? Check how to get here.

Travel tips

Make the most of your visit with our handy travel guide.

Getting around

From a dhow boat to our world-class metro, here’s how to easily explore Qatar.

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New International Travel Regulations to Enter Indonesia as of 10 November 2022

JAKARTA, 21 December 2022 - As an immediate response to recover tourism industry and relaxing the international travel restrictions, COVID-19 Task Force issued the Circular Letter of the COVID-19 Task Force Number 25 of 2022 concerning Health Protocols for International Travels during the COVID-19 Pandemic . 

Coordinator of Expert Team and Spokesperson for the COVID-19 Handling Task Force, Prof. Wiku Adisasmito, stated that the adjustment to the control mechanism for international travel was urgently needed. "The COVID-19 policy must also be adaptive with the dynamics of the virus, including the dynamics of its variants that occur globally," Wiku said.

• International Travel

Here are the new international travel regulations according to the Circular Letter of the COVID-19 Task Force Number 25 of 2022 concerning Health Protocols for International Travels during the COVID-19 Pandemic

• The general requirements regarding health protocols for international travelers are as follows:
• Wearing 3 ply of fabric mask or medical grade mask, covering nose, mouth, and chin at indoor settings or any crowded situations;
• Replacing the mask regularly within every 4 hours, and dispose the waste in the proper place;
• Washing hands regularly with water and soap or hand sanitizers;
• Maintaining social distance for a minimum of 1.5 meters and avoiding crowds; and
• Keeping in mind that it is advised not to have one-way or two-way communication by telephone or in person throughout the trip using public transportation modes of land, rail, sea, river, lake, ferry, and air.
• All International travelers, both Indonesian citizens and foreign nationals, can enter Indonesia through the entry points assigned, which are:

a. Airports

• Soekarno Hatta International Airport, Banten;
• Juanda International Airport, East Java;
• Ngurah Rai International Airport, Bali;
• Hang Nadim International Airport, Riau Islands;
• Sam Ratulangi International Airport, North Sulawesi;
• Zainuddin Abdul Madjid International Airport, West Nusa Tenggara;
• Kualanamu International Airport, North Sumatra;
• Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, South Sulawesi;
• Yogyakarta International Airport, Yogyakarta;
• Sultan Syarif Kasim II, Riau.
• Sultan Iskandar Muda, Aceh;
• Minangkabau, West Sumatra;
• Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman, East Kalimantan;
• Kertajati International Airport, West Java; and
• Sentani International Airport, Papua

b. Seaports

All international seaports in Indonesia are now opened as entry points for international travel through the consideration of the Directorate General of Sea Transportation of the Ministry of Transportation.

c. Cross Border State

• Aruk, West Kalimantan;
• Entikong, West Kalimantan;
• Motaain, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Nanga Badau, West Kalimantan;
• Motamasin, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Wini, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Skouw, Papua; and
• Sota, Papua.

3. International travelers can enter Indonesia through the following conditions:

• Indonesian citizens are allowed to enter Indonesia by following the strict health protocol as mentioned in number 1.
• Foreign nationals are allowed to enter Indonesia by fulfilling the requirements as follows:
• In accordance with the provisions on immigration regulated by the ministry that administers government affairs in the fields of Law and Human Rights;
• In accordance with the agreement scheme (bilateral), such as the Travel Corridor Arrangement (TCA); and/or
• Granted special consideration/permission in writing from the Ministry/Agency.

4. Requirements for Departure Documents for international travelers from Indonesia are as follows:

• International travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens aged 18 years and above who will travel abroad from Indonesia are required to show a card/certificate (physical or digital) of receiving the third dose of COVID-19 vaccine (booster) which is shown through the PeduliLindungi app.
• The provisions on the obligation to show the card/certificate as referred to in letter a are excluded for Indonesian citizens with the following provisions:
• International travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens with special health conditions or comorbid diseases that cause them to not receive the vaccine are required to attach a doctor's certificate from the Government Hospital stating that the person concerned has not and/or cannot receive the Covid-19 vaccine; or
• International travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens who have finished carrying out COVID-19 isolation/treatment and have been declared inactive in transmitting COVID-19 but have not been able to get the third dose of vaccination (booster) must show a doctor's certificate from the Government Hospital or Ministry of Health stating that the person concerned is no longer active. actively transmit COVID-19 or COVID-19 recovery certificate.

5. Requirements for Arrival Documents for international travelers going to Indonesia are as follows:  

• International travelers must download and use PeduliLindungi app before departure;
• Presenting the card/certificate (physical or digital) of receiving the second dose of COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 (fourteen) days before departure written in English, other than the language of the country of origin.
• The obligation to show proof (physical and digital) of COVID-19 vaccination certificates as requirements for entering Indonesia are excluded to:
• Foreign nationals under 18 years old; and
• International travelers with special health conditions or comorbid diseases that cause travelers cannot receive vaccines, with the requirements of presenting a doctor's certificate from the State Departure Hospital which states that the concerned person has not been and/or cannot receive COVID-19 vaccination.
• International travelers who have not received a complete dose of vaccination, have finished carrying out COVID-19 isolation or treatment, and have been declared inactive in transmitting COVID-19 with the requirement that they attach a doctor's certificate from the Government Hospital of the departure country or the ministry that carries out government affairs in the health sector on the country of departure stating that the person concerned is no longer actively transmitting COVID-19 or the COVID-19 recovery certificate;
• International travelers with the status of foreign nationals who are Diplomatic visa holders and work visas related to official visit/state officials at the ministerial level or above and foreign nationals who entered Indonesia with the Travel Corridor Arrangement scheme,  according to the principle of reciprocity while implementing a strict health protocol; and
• International travelers with the status of foreign nationals who have not received the vaccine and intend to travel domestically in order to continue their journey with international flights out of Indonesian territory, are allowed not to show their COVID-19 vaccination card/certificate as long as they do not leave the airport area during transit waiting for international flights to be followed, with requirements:
• Has been permitted by the local Port Health Office to travel domestically in order to continue the journey with international flights out of the territory of Indonesia; and
• Showing the schedule of flight tickets outside Indonesia for direct transit from the departure city to the international airport in the territory of Indonesia with the final destination to the destination country.

6. COVID-19 Entry Points Health Protocols are listed as follows:

• International travelers must proceed through international travel arrival documents checking as being mentioned in no. 4.
• Upon arrival at the entry points, international travelers must undergo a COVID-19 symptom check, including a body temperature check.
• International travelers with a symptom of COVID-19 or body temperature above 37.5 degrees Celsius must undergo RT-PCR examination upon arrival with payment borne by the government for Indonesian citizen and by self-financing for foreign nationals
• International travelers without a symptom of COVID-19 and body temperature below 37.5 degrees Celsius are not required to undergo RT-PCR examination upon arrival and can continue their travel while also conducting 14 days of self health monitoring.
• International travelers conducting the RT-PCR confirmation examination as referred to in point c are allowed to continue the journey after conducting the RT-PCR confirmation examination sample and must comply with the following provisions:
• Waiting for the results of the RT-PCR confirmation examination in hotel rooms, lodging rooms, or residences; and
• Are not allowed to leave hotel rooms, lodging rooms, or residences and are not allowed to interact with other people before the results of the RT-PCR confirmation examination show negative results.
• In the event that the RT-PCR confirmation examination as referred to in point c shows a positive result, the international traveler shall be isolated/treated in accordance with the follow-up mechanism for the positive case.
• In the event that the RT-PCR confirmation examination as referred to in point c shows a negative result, the international traveler is allowed to continue the journey and it is recommended to carry out independent health monitoring of COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days by implementing strict health protocols.

7. Positive Case Follow-up Mechanism and Isolation/Treatment are as follows:

• International travelers with positive RT-PCR confirmation examination results without symptoms or experiencing mild symptoms are required to carry out isolation/treatment in isolation hotels or centralized isolation facilities set by the government or self-isolate in their own residences with isolation/treatment times as recommended by the Ministry of Health.
• International travelers with positive RT-PCR confirmation examination results accompanied by moderate or severe symptoms and/or with uncontrolled comorbidities, will be isolated/treated at a Covid-19 referral hospital with isolation/treatment time according to recommendations from doctors and recommendations from the Ministry of Health.

8. COVID-19 Vaccination Program for International Travelers are as follows:

• International travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens who have not received the COVID-19 vaccination, either the first dose, the second dose, or the third dose are required to undergo vaccination at the entry point for overseas travel after a symptom check is carried out.
• International travelers with the status of foreign nationals who are already in Indonesia and will travel, both domestically and internationally, are required to undergo vaccination through a program or mutual cooperation scheme in accordance with the provisions of the legislation.

9. Financing of all the provisions mentioned above are regulated as follows:

• The cost of RT-PCR confirmation examination at the entry point as referred to in number 5.c. for foreign nationals it is borne independently, while for Indonesian citizens it is borne by the government.
• The cost of handling COVID-19 and medical evacuation for foreign nationals is borne independently, while for Indonesian citizens it is borne by the government.
• The cost of vaccination at the entry point for international travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens as referred to in letter 7.a is borne by the government.
• In the event that the international travelers with the status of foreign nationals are unable to finance the RT-PCR confirmation examination at the entry point and isolation/treatment when the results of the RT-PCR confirmation examination show positive results, as referred to in point a and b, then the Sponsor, Ministry/Institution/State-Owned Enterprises providing the consideration of the entry permit for the foreigner can be asked for the accountability in question.

10. Other provisions are as follows:

• In regards to the results of the RT-PCR test at the entry point, a written comparison can be requested by filling out the form provided by the Port Health Office or the Ministry of Health at the expense of the inspection being borne by the international travelers.
• The implementation of the RT-PCR comparison test as referred to in point a is carried out simultaneously by the Port Health Office in 2 (two) laboratories for the purpose of SGTF comparison examination and comparative examination of RT-PCR results, namely at: Health Research and Development Agency (Balitbangkes), Cipto Mangunkusumo Central General Hospital (RSCM), 9 Gatot Soebroto Army Central Hospital (RSPAD), Bhayangkara Raden Said Sukanto Hospital (Polri Hospital) or other government laboratories (Environmental Health Engineering Center, Regional Health Laboratory, or other government reference laboratories).
• The Port Health Office of airports and international seaports facilitates international travelers requiring emergency medical services upon arrival in Indonesia in accordance with the provisions of laws and regulations.
• Every transportation mode operator at the entry point for overseas travel is required to use the PeduliLindungi app.
• Ministries/institutions/regional apparatus that carry out functions related to the international travelers must follow up this Circular Letter by issuing legal instruments that are in harmony and do not conflict with the provisions of laws and regulations.
• The legal instrument as referred to in point e is an inseparable part of this Circular Letter.

This regulation is effective from 1 September 2022 until a later date is determined. You can check the complete detail regarding this regulation on this link.

Visa Exemption Arrangement Facility and Visa on Arrival for Indonesia

• Visa Exemption Arrangement facility and Visa on Arrival for Indonesia

Furthermore, based on the  Circular Letter of the Directorate General of Immigration No. IMI-0708.GR.01.01 of 2022 concerning the Ease of Immigration to Support Sustainable Tourism during the COVID-19 Pandemic effective from 23 September 2022, the Indonesian government has decided to exercise the Visa Exemption Arrangement facility and updated the list of countries eligible for Visa On Arrival (VOA) for tourism purposes.

The list of countries and special entities for Visit Visa Exemption Arrangement facility , in alphabetical order are:

• Brunei Darussalam,
• Philippines,
• Thailand, and

Visit Visa Exemption for Tourism Purpose are granted for foreign nationals at the Immigration Checkpoints as follows :

a. Airports:

1)  Hang Nadim, Riau Islands; 2)  Juanda, East Java; 3)  Kertajati, West Java; 4)  Kualanamu, North Sumatra; 5)  Minangkabau, West Sumatra; 6)  Ngurah Rai, Bali; 7)  Sam Ratulangi, North Sulawesi; 8)  Sentani, Jayapura; 9)  Soekarno Hatta, Banten; 10) Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman, East Kalimantan; 11) Sultan Hasanuddin, South Sulawesi; 12) Sultan Iskandar Muda, Aceh; 13) Sultan Syarif Kasim II, Riau; 14) Yogyakarta, DI Yogyakarta; 15) Zainuddin Abdul Majid, West Nusa Tenggara.

b. Seaports:

  1)  Achmad Yani, North Maluku;  2)  Amamapare, Papua;  3)  Anggrek, Gorontalo; 4)  Bagan Siapi-Api, Riau; 5)  Bandar Bentan Telani Lagoi, Riau Islands; 6)  Bandar Seri Udana Lobam, Riau Islands; 7)  Bandar Sri Setia Raja, Riau; 8)  Batam Centre, Riau Islands; 9)  Batu Ampar, Riau Islands; 10)  Belakang Padang, Riau Islands; 11)  Belawan, North Sumatra; 12)  Benete, West Nusa Tenggara; 13)  Benoa, Bali; 14)  Biak, Papua;  15)  Boom Baru, South Sumatra; 16)  Celukan Bawang, Bali; 17)  Cirebon, West Java; 18)  Citra Tri Tunas, Riau Islands; 19)  Ciwandan, Banten; 20)  Dumai, Riau; 21)  Dwi Kora, West Kalimantan; 22)  Gunung Sitoli, North Sumatera; 23)  Jambi, Jambi; 24)  Jayapura, Papua; 26)  Kabil, Riau Islands; 27)  Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi; 28)  Kota Baru, South Kalimantan; 29)  Kuala Enok, Riau; 30)  Kuala Langsa, Aceh; 31)  Kuala Tanjung, North Sumatra; 32)  Kumai, Central Kalimantan; 33)  Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara; 34)  Lauren Say, East Nusa Tenggara; 35)  Lemar, West Nusa Tenggara; 36)  Lhokseumawe, Aceh; 37)  Malahayati, Aceh;        38)  Manado, North Sulawesi Utara; 40)  Marina Ancol, DKI Jakarta; 41)  Marina Teluk Senimba, Riau Islands; 42)  Merauke, Papua; 43)  Muara Sabak, Jambi; 44)  Nongsa Terminal Bahari, Riau Islands; 45)  Nusantara, North Sulawesi; 46)  Nusantara Nusantara Pare Pare, South Sulawesi; 47)  Padang Bai, Bali; 48)  Panarukan, East Java; 49)  Pangkal Balam, Bangka Belitung; 50)  Panjang, Lampung; 51)  Pantoloan, Central Sulawesi; 52)  Pasuruan, East Java; 53)  Patimban, West Java; 54)  Probolinggo, East Java; 55)  Pulau Baai, Bengkulu; 56)  Sabang, Aceh; 57)  Samarinda, East Kalimantan; 58)  Sampit, Central Kalimantan;  59)  Samudera, North Sulawesi; 60)  Saumlaki, Maluku; 61)  Sekupang, Riau Islands; 62)  Selat Lampa, Riau Islands; 63)  Semayang, East Kalimantan; 64)  Siak Sri Indrapura, Riau; 65)  Sibolga, North Sumatra; 66)  Sintete, West Kalimantan; 67)  Soekarno-Hatta, South Sulawesi; 68)  Sorong, Papua; 69)  Sri Bayintan, Riau Islands; 70)  Sri Bintan Pura, Riau Islands; 71)  Sunda Kelapa, DKI Jakarta; 72)  Sungai Guntung, Riau; 73)  Tanjung Balai Karimun, Riau Islands; 74)  Tanjung Emas, Central Jawa; 75)  Tanjung Gudang, Bangka Belitung; 76)  Tanjung Harapan, Riau; 77)  Tanjung Intan, Central Java; 78)  Tanjung Kalian, Bangka Belitung; 79)  Tanjung Pandan, Bangka Belitung; 80)  Tanjung Perak, East Java; 81)  Tanjung Priok, DKI Jakarta; 82)  Tanjung Uban, Riau Islands; 83)  Tanjung Wangi, East Java; 84)  Tarempa, Riau Islands; 85)  Teluk Bayur, West Sumatra; 86)  Teluk Nibung, North Sumatra; 87)  Tembilahan, Riau; 88)  Tenau, East Nusa Tenggara; 89)  Tri Sakti, South Kalimantan; 90)  Tual, Maluku; 91)  Yos Sudarso, Maluku;

c. Cross-Border Posts:

1)  Aruk, West Kalimantan; 2)  Entikong, West Kalimantan; 3)  Marore, North Sulawesi; 4)  Miangas, North Sulawesi; 5)  Mota’ain, East Nusa Tenggara; 6)  Motamasin, East Nusa Tenggara; 7)  Nanga Badau, West Kalimantan;                                                      8)  Serasan, Riau Islands;                                                                    9)  Skouw, Papua; 10) Sota, Papua; 11) Tunon Taka, North Kalimantan; 12) Wini, East Nusa Tenggara.

Effective from 23 September 2022, below are the list of countries and special entities for VOA for tourism, in alphabetical order:

• Bosnia Herzegovina
• Brunei Darussalam
• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Timor Leste
• Türkiye
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Vatican City

VOA for Tourism Purpose are granted for foreign nationals at the Immigration Checkpoints as follows

Immigration Checkpoints on Airports

• Hang Nadim, Riau Islands;
• Juanda, East Java;
• Kualanamu, North Sumatra;
• Ngurah Rai, Bali; 
• Raja Haji Fisabilillah, Riau Islands;
• Sam Ratulangi, North Sulawesi;
• Sentani, Papua
• Soekarno Hatta, DKI Jakarta;
• Sultan Hasanuddin, South Sulawesi;
• Sultan Syarif Kasim II, Riau;
• Yogyakarta in Special Region of Yogyakarta;
• Zainuddin Abdul Madjid in West Nusa Tenggara.

Immigration Checkpoints on Seaports

• Bandar Bentan Telani Lagoi, Riau Islands;
• Bandar Seri Udana Lobam, Riau Islands;
• Batam Centre, Riau Islands;
• Belawan, North Sumatra;
• Benoa, Bali;
• Biak, Papua;
• Citra Tri Tunas, Riau Islands;
• Dumai in Riau;
• Jayapura, Papua;
• Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Lembar, West Nusa Tenggara;
• Marina Teluk Senimba, Riau Islands;
• Malundung, North Kalimantan;
• Marina Ancol, Jakarta;
• Nongsa Terminal Bahari, Riau Islands;
• Nusantara Pare-Pare, South Sulawesi;
• Padang Bai, Bali;
• Sabang, Aceh;
• Samudera, North Sulawesi;
• Saumlaki, Maluku;
• Sekupang, Riau Islands;
• Sibolga, North Sumatra;
• Soekarno-Hatta, South Sulawesi;
• Sorong, Papua;
• Sri Bintan Pura, Riau Islands;
• Sunda Kelapa, DKI Jakarta;
• Tanjung Balai Karimun, Riau Islands;
• Tanjung Emas, Central Java;
• Tanjung Pandan, Bangka Belitung;
• Tanjung Perak, East Java;
• Tanjung Priok, Jakarta;
• Tarempa, Riau Islands;
• Teluk Bayur, North Jakarta;
• Tenau, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Tual, Maluku.

Immigration Checkpoints on Cross-Border Posts

• Mota’ain, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Sota, Papua;
• Tunon Taka, North Kalimantan;
• Wini, East Nusa Tenggara.                                                                                   

The regulations and details for Visit Visa Exemption for Tourism Purpose and Visa On Arrival for Tourism are listed as follows:

1. International travelers must present all requirements for the VOA at the immigration counter, namely:

i. Diplomatic Passport, ii. Service Passport, or iii. General Passport;

With validity period of at least 6 (six) months;

• A return ticket or a connecting ticket to continue traveling to another country;
• Proof of non-tax revenue payment in case of applying for a VOA for tourism purpose

2. Visa Exemption Arrangement for Tourism and VOA for tourism can be used by foreign nationals to carry out tourism activities or government duties in international activities of a state or government nature;

3. In the event that the foreign national as referred to in number 3 will carry out government duties in international activities of a state or government nature, in addition to meeting the requirements as referred to in number 2 must also attach an invitation letter to attend a conference/trial/meeting issued by the related Ministry/Agency of the Republic of Indonesia;

4. VOA for Tourism can also be granted to foreign nationals holding Diplomatic Passports or Service Passports who are not citizens of the State, Government of a Special Administrative Region of a State, and Certain Entities Subject to a VOA for Tourism in the event that there is no Representative of the Republic of Indonesia in the country/place of residence or emergency/urgent activities, by examining the following requirements:

• Diplomatic Passport or Service Passport with a validity period of at least 6 (six) months,
• A return ticket or a one-way ticket to continue the journey to another country;
• Request letter from the Ministry/Agency/Agency of the Republic of Indonesia;
• Letter of approval from the Director General of Immigration;
• Proof of non-tax revenue payment for VOA for tourism; and
• Invitation letter to attend conferences/trials/meetings issued by Ministries/Institutions/Agencies of the Republic of Indonesia, in terms of the intention of visiting foreigners for government duties in international activities of a state or government nature;

5. The approval letter from the Director General of Immigration as referred to in number 4 letter d is submitted by the chairs of the Ministry/Institution/Agency of the Republic of Indonesia to the Director General of Immigration u.p. Director of Immigration Traffic by attaching:

• A request letter from the Ministry/Agency/Agency of the Republic of Indonesia containing data on foreign nationals and the reasons for the submission,
• Diplomatic Passport or Service Passport with a validity period of at least 6 (six) months, and

6. Foreign nationals holding Visa Exemption Arrangement for Tourism and VOA for tourism cannot apply for a New Stay Permit through a Visa application;

7. Foreign nationals holding Visa Exemption Arrangement for Tourism and VOA for tourism can leave the territory of Indonesia through all Immigration Checkpoints;

8. The applicable rate for a VOA for tourism is the rate for a Visa on Arrival as referred to in the Attachment to Government Regulation Number 28 of 2019 which is IDR 500,000,-;

9. Perform data reconciliation between non-tax revenue payments, use of Visit Visa stickers on VOA for tourism with immigration crossings on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis;

Passport holders outside the above listed categories in point 2, can also enter Indonesia through entry points mentioned in point 1 by applying for e-visa prior to departure.

If you are already in Indonesia and planning to depart on a domestic trip, we suggest you find an updated regulation regarding domestic travel by clicking the link here .

Second Home Visa

Foreigners can stay for 5 (five) or 10 (ten) years and carry out various activities, such as investment and others. Foreigners can also conveniently apply for a second-home visa through a website-based application( visa-online.imigrasi.go.id ).

Check here for the required documents.

E-Visa on Arrival (E-VoA)

According to the Circular Letter of the Directorate General of Immigration No. IMI-0764.GR.01.01 of 2022 concerning the Immigration Policy regarding Electronic Visit Visa Services, Visit Visa on Arrival Services, and Free Visit Visa to Support Sustainable Tourism during the Covid-19 Pandemic, as of 10 November, 2022, E-VoA program is being applied for some international travelers in order to ease their visit to Indonesia and attract more foreign travelers to come. The E-VoA program is available at 6 airports and 11 seaports across Indonesia and currently accessible to foreign nationals from 46 countries.

You can check the details regarding the E-VoA program by clicking the link here .

It is also expected for all international travelers to practice healthy habits such as washing hands frequently, wearing a mask in public places, and implementing social distancing. Kindly note that this regulation changes dynamically in order to adapt to certain circumstances. Be sure to follow us on  Instagram ,  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  TikTok  and  YouTube  to get an immediate update on the regulations in the future.

*Disclaimer : This article was updated on 16 January 2022. Due to the dynamic nature of travel regulations, please stay updated and confirm your itinerary with your chosen travel providers.

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This is the official website of the Ministry of Tourism, Republic of Indonesia and Creative Economy. 沪ICP备19023026号 . The contents listed on this website are intended for informational purposes rather than commercial. Any displayed sale is meant as a token of partnership and will always redirect you to our partners' sites.

World Wild Schooling

24 American Passport Perks: Visa-Free Travel to Exotic Locations

Posted: April 5, 2024 | Last updated: April 5, 2024

Going around the globe is a thrilling adventure for any traveler that helps them learn about diverse cultures while sitting back and destressing from their daily routine. However, visas can be an arduous process that everyone dreads. But don’t worry because there are exotic locations that you can travel to as an American completely visa-free.

1. Phuket, Thailand

You’ll never want to leave once you visit this dream-like slice of heaven. Phuket is an island surrounded by stunning beaches like Hat Bang Thao, with pristine water crashing against the white sandy terrain. The Chinese lanterns light Soi Romanee at night, a small market with cafes and guesthouses waiting to be explored. Don’t miss out on the Big Buddha on top of the Nakkerd Hills to experience the culture of Thailand. You can stay here for up to thirty days without a visa.

Read also: Top Exotic Beach Destinations

2. Bali, Indonesia

The sheer beauty of Bali leaves everyone wholly enchanted. Its dormant volcanoes and terraced rice fields make it the perfect place to enjoy peace and serenity. Whether you choose to splurge on some of the most masterful handicrafts or you plan on enjoying the vibrant festivals, or even if you’re excited to unleash your inner party animal at night, you can do all that by staying here for up to thirty days without a visa.

Read also: Visa-Free Countries in Asia

3. Barbados, Caribbean

Requiring no visa for Americans for a stay of up to a whopping six months, Barbados is perfect for a hassle-free travel experience. If you’re a history fanatic, visit St. John’s Parish Church and Tyrol Cot Heritage Village. But for those looking for more adrenaline, snorkeling is a great way to enjoy your time on the magnificent beaches. We recommend enjoying some delicious snacks from the vibrant Bombas Beach Bar.

Read also: Top Caribbean Destinations With No Visa Needed

4. Baja California Sur, Mexico

With an expansive coastline and vibrant blue waters, Baja California Sur is beautiful, and Americans can visit the place for 180 days completely visa-free. From the exotic resort of Los Cabos to Cabo San Lucas, lined with bars, restaurants serving piping hot food, and entertainment, you’ll be bored here.

Read also: Top Visa-Free Countries for Americans

5. Kefalonia, Greece

Kefalonia should be at the top of your exotic location bucket list, a hub of natural beauty with its pine, cypress, and olive trees coupled with crystal clear waters that blend to paint a divine picture. For US nationals, it’s so much easier to visit as they can stay here for up to ninety days with a visa. If you see it, visit Melissani’s roofless cave for the complete experience.

Read also: Stunning Small Towns in Europe

6. Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza has everything, from historical places like Dalt Vila to gorgeous beaches and long hikes filled with beautiful sunsets. You can stay here without a visa for up to ninety days, which means you can explore the location in depth. Some people just visit this majestic place for its riveting nightlife, and it doesn’t disappoint with several nightclubs filled with boozy drinks like Pacha and Amnesia, prepared to have a raging headache in the morning.

Read also: Awesome Beach Destinations in Europe

7. Sossusvlei, Namibia

The first thing that pops into your mind when thinking about Namibia is its spectacular sand dunes, and rightly so; however, there are several other things to do here. You can visit the clay pan of Deadvlei with its ancient camel thorn tree or take some pictures at the stunning Sesriem Canyon. For people who like the thrill of outdoor activities, you can even go quad biking. Stay here for up to ninety days without a visa.

Read also: Iconic Places Across the Globe

8. Arashiyama, Japan

Home to cherry blossom trees and cute monkeys, the Bamboo Forest here is a unique experience where you can stay for up to ninety days if you don’t have a visa. With 600 brightly colored cylinder pillars plastered with art and a sprawling bamboo grove, Arashiyama is best explored with a walking guided tour. The best part is that the Hotel Suiran is right beside it, making it accessible.

Read also: Stunning Countries to Explore

9. Tayrona, Colombia

Tayrona is exactly like you imagine it: golden sandy beaches, giant looming palm trees, and a thick rainforest with luscious trees. You’ll find the world’s highest coastal mountain range, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, along with a hidden village, Pueblito, with its breathtaking forest and traditional houses. Without a visa, you can stay here for up to ninety days.

Read also: Must-Visit Beaches in the Caribbean

10. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Croatia is home to many little islands, but one of the most renowned and stunning is Dubrovnik. There’s much to do here in medieval-style gray brick walls coupled with historic places like Fort Lovrijenac. It was also a filming location for Game of Thrones so fans could explore the area for up to ninety days without a visa.

Read also: Incredible Coastal Drives in the World

11. Easter Island, Chile

With a visa-free stay for up to ninety days as an American, it’s effortless to visit Easter Island in all its glory. The location has a rich history with the mystery of the monolithic human figures made all the way back between 1,250 AD and 1,500 AD. You’ll be able to uncover the natural caves at Ana Kakenga and partake in exciting activities like surfing and scuba diving in the pristine waters of Chile.

Read also: Top Tropical Destinations

12. Azores, Portugal

The Azores is an archipelago located amidst the Atlantic Ocean. Known as the “Hawaii of Europe,” it’s packed with everything you can dream of. From Pico da Barrosa, the highest point in Portugal, to watching majestic whales to Sete Cidades with its twin lakes, you can enjoy it all within ninety days without having a visa. 

Read also: Warm February Destinations

13. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Everyone has heard of Bora Bora, and there’s a reason why. While it may be a bit small, it has dormant volcanoes and hefty forests lined with tall, looming trees, making it perfect to whip out your camera and capture the beauty. Along with the stunning sights, it has resorts where you’ll experience luxury like you’ve never done before. French Polynesia allows US nationals to stay here for up to ninety days without a visa.

Read also: Hidden Countries to Visit

14. Machu Picchu, Peru

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Machu Picchu is a popular tourist hot spot, and the best part is that you can stay here for up to 183 days visa-free. However, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before visiting. Bring your hiking shoes for the Inca Trail and be prepared to have fun, as there are activities like hiking, biking, rafting, and zip-lining. Don’t forget to enjoy their traditional food at Restaurante Indio Feliz.

Read also: UNESCO Heritage Sites

15. The Great Blue Hole, Belize

Approximately 1,000 feet across and 400 feet deep, The Great Blue Hole in Belize is an enormous sinkhole that is a must-visit. You can visit via a helicopter or a boat for a more adventurous experience. Once there, you can dive into the hole and experience underwater marine life. For American passport holders, staying for up to one month is visa-free.

Read also: Hidden Beaches in the Caribbean

16. Gozo, Malta

If your daily nine-to-five is eating you alive, then a stress-free visit to Gozo is just what you need. With around 39,000 inhabitants, it’s a quiet and serene place, perfect to heal your inner child. Once you’re done soaking up all the jaw-dropping beauty, you can visit the Ġgantija Megalithic temples or take a guided tour to see all the famous sites. For US nationals, a stay for up to ninety days is visa-free.

Read also: Hidden European Islands

17. Giant’s Causeway, Ireland

The Giant’s Causeway is a stunning site formed millions of years ago due to a volcanic eruption. Staying in Ireland is visa-free for Americans for up to ninety days, so you have plenty of time to explore this wonder. The basalt columns form a pathway that will leave you in awe.

You can also see the gleaming waters stretching for miles from the top. There are spectacular hotels, hiking trails, and a visitor’s center.

Read also: Incredible Natural Wonders in Europe

18. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Lake Atitlan is much more than a basic lake. While it’s enormous and has pristine waters that make it a mesmerizing site, there are also several towns around it that people often miss out on. From San Pedro and its luxury resort, Sababa Resort, to San Marcos with its perfectly brewed coffee to paragliding over the lake, you won’t be bored. Stay there for up to ninety days without a visa.

Read also: Underrated Tropical Destinations

19. Lake Retba, Senegal

30 km from the capital, Lake Retba is the most unique place you’ll visit. Unlike traditional lakes, the water here is pink. To experience this phenomenal site, you can take a boat and explore it up close. The color is a result of high salinity. You’ll also witness several women selling local jewelry, so be sure to check that out. As an American, visa-free travel lasts for up to ninety days here. 

Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the World

20. Palawan, Philippines

With over 1,700 islands, Palawan has gained much traction with tourists due to its jaw-dropping beauty and recreational activities. Whether you visit El Nido Park with limestone formations and kayaking, head towards Kayangan Lake for a rejuvenating swim, or even go diving in Coron Bay, filled with wreckage to explore, you’ll have a blast. While visa-free stay here is limited to thirty days, it’s plenty for a wholesome experience.

Read also: Most Impressive Places To See

21. The Cook Islands, New Zealand

From family staycations to a couples retreat, The Cook Islands is a dream come true, and you can stay here for up to ninety days without a visa. Without visiting the local Punanga Nui Market marketplace, you’ll miss out on woodwork and art. Your itinerary should include a hike to Rarotonga and a tour of the villages where locals talk about their ancient myths and traditions.

Read also: Incredible Secret Beaches

22. Viti Levu, Fiji

This chunk of land has delicious food, ravaging nightlife, and scenic beauty that will leave your jaw hanging wide open. For an immersive experience, a visit to the Fiji Culture Village is a must-do here. You can also experience a day cruise in the gleaming waters and the hot mud spring to cleanse yourself. Fiji allows Americans to stay without a visa for up to four months. 

Read also: US Coastal Gems

23. Bruges, Belgium

Going to the vibrant-colored Bruges Market should be at the top of your list if you’re visiting Bruges. Once you’ve fully experienced the place, you can head up to the Lake of Love for an intimate moment with your partner. For those who want to share the history of Belgium, you can head up to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which is said to have a cloth soaked in Jesus Christ’s blood. Belgium allows Americans without visas to stay here for up to ninety days.

Read also: Unique Places to Visit in Europe

24. Lapland, Finland

A visit to Lapland can be best described as magical, and as an American, you can stay here for up to ninety days without a visa. If you decide to visit the area, you must gaze at the dazzling northern lights, making the entire place look like a fairy tale. There are many things to do here, from the Santa Claus Village to the Snow Village Hotel, a unique dining experience where everything is frozen.

Read also: Dreamy Destinations in Europe

Must-Visit European Cities

Turn your wanderlust into reality with our list of  must-visit European cities .

• Read more:  Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Visa-Free Countries

Explore these  countries visa-free  with your American passport.

• Read more:  Visa-Free Countries

Stunning Small Towns in Europe to Visit in Your Lifetime

Add these  charming European small towns  to your bucket list.

• Read more:  Small Towns in Europe

Tropical Destinations To Add to Your Bucket List

Dreaming of paradise? Discover  tropical destinations  to add to your bucket list.

• Read more:  Tropical Destinations To Visit in Your Lifetime

Caribbean Destinations Where No Visa Is Needed for Americans

Discover passport-free paradise with our guide to  Caribbean destinations for US citizens .

• Read more:  Caribbean Destinations Without Visa

Read the original thread on  24 American Passport Perks: Visa-Free Travel to Exotic Locations .

This article was produced and syndicated by  World Wild Schooling .

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From Bangkok in Thailand, to Bali in Indonesia, to Boracay in the Philippines on a single visa? Unified ASEAN visa similar to Schengen in the works

• Living In UAE
• Magical Dubai
• The Kurator

‘One Destination Visa’ for the ASEAN, unified travel document akin to Schengen pushed

Manila: A single-visa for the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), similar to Schengen?

It's  the most ambitious project yet for the region, home to 670 million people. It’s much talked about, yet achieved not much headway, so far.

This may change soon.

The ASEAN Unified Visa Scheme is a bold idea. Though not new, the joint-visa programme akin to the Schengen visa model (which covers 29 countries in Europe), is the ultimate goal of the Asian neighbours.

Here’s the lowdown on the unified ASEAN, Schengen-type visa proposal:

What is the name of the visa scheme?

Various names have been proposed at different times:

• “One Destination” ASEAN Visa
• Unified ASEAN Tourist Visa
• ASEAN Single Visa Scheme
• Common ASEAN Visa
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What’s the big idea behind it?

The aim is to bolster the bloc’s travel trade – by attracting more long-haul and high-spending travellers to the region. What’s unclear, given the years the idea has been discussed, is how the states would like to get there.

The ultimate goal: facilitate the movement of non-ASEAN nationals across the region, turning the wide and diverse area into a premier tourist spot. The concept has been under consideration for sometime, deliberated upon at summits and various ministerial meetings.

When did the idea start?

The idea has been on for decades. It gained momentum during the 2016 ASEAN Tourism Forum in the Philippines, where ASEAN member-states officially launched the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP) 2016-2025.

What’s changed since then?

Recently, Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reignited the initiative. The Thai leader’s proposal has garnered broad regional support.

The region's tourism sector has welcomed the proposal. If approved by member-economies, it would create a seamless Schengen-like mobility experience.

Which ASEAN members will be covered initially?

Under the current proposal, it would initially cover the six geographically contiguous mainland Asian countries: Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam (CLMMTV).

Last year, these six countries collectively welcomed 70 million tourists, with Thailand and Malaysia leading, generating approximately $48 billion in tourism dollars.

Thailand's tourism industry plays a crucial role, employing 20 per cent of its workforce and contributing 12 per cent to its $500 billion economy. With aspirations to welcome 80 million tourists by 2027, Thailand has streamlined entry for visitors from diverse nations and diversified its tourism offerings with events.

While it won’t directly rival Europe’s Schengen visa, the ASEAN visa could create the world’s second-biggest area of free movement, and represent one of the most culturally diverse regions on the planet.

Which ASEAN countries are not included in the proposed joint visa programme?

As it stands, the proposal does not include other non-mainland member economies:

• The Philippines,
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How likely is a “unified” ASEAN visa to happen?

It remains under discussion with no set timelines. So it probably won't happen tomorrow. One major challenge: harmonising different immigration apparatuses, and databases. This is the biggest hurdle so far.

Here's why: unlike business or tax regime harmonisation, for example, harmonising immigration policies would be virtually impossible — without creating something akin to the European Union (EU), where countries are almost like one country in all but name. It’s currently hard to imagine how ASEAN could get to that point.

There are other challenges – such as coordinating approvals and establishing standard tourist criteria among participating nations.

Additionally, unlike continental Europe, the fragmented nature of ASEAN and its immigration database pose further hurdles.

Moreover, factors hindering the scheme's realisation include security concerns, internal sharing mechanisms, border control support, visa issuance synchronisation, human resource development, and infrastructure upgrades.

The success of the ASEAN joint-visa programme depends on how fast the states overcome bureaucratic hurdles and garner sufficient support from all participating nations.

Why should the Philippines sign up to the Unified ASEAN Visa scheme?

For one, the Philippines is a prime mover of this drive and is a founding member of the group. More broadly, it will strengthen institutional cooperation within the region. Windfall tourism from neighbouring countries would give other members net benefits.

The scheme also promises to enhance ASEAN security governance by fostering closer inter-agency and regional cooperation, thereby improving border management capabilities, fostering greater ASEAN security governance.

And despite the challenges, the Philippines’s Bureau of Immigration (BI), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and embassy officials anticipate the scheme’s overall benefits for the Philippines and the ASEAN region, according to a 2018 study.

The full-member economies of APEC include Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Chile, mainland China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Why is a ‘scaled-down’ unified ASEAN visa more possible?

A scaled-down “unified ASEAN tourist visa” scenario involving initially the mainland Asian countries – say, for a limited period of 90 days – is more likely to be adopted, observed Ben Hart, Managing Director of Integrity Legal based in Bangkok.

This is because of the initiatives already in place. All member economies are pushing tourism Thailand has been pursuing various tourism drives, including reciprocal visa waiver deals and temporary visa waivers for travellers from key markets such as China and India.

Moreover ,Thailand has set lofty goals for itself – to elevate its status as a tourism hotspot as well as an aviation and logistics hub.

As a group, the 63-year-old ASEAN group aims to move forward with multiple areas of economic cooperation, technical and human resources, among others.

Still, the task is not easy given the challenges of having different foreign policies and disparate rules.

What happens next?

If countries in the region do embark on a common visa, it will mark heightened institutional collaborations within the region, help build greater integration towards a common ecosystem for their citizens and the wider world.

By allowing tourists to travel to any country in the region on one travel document, it will likely add more economic value and spur tourism.

Though it may not come very soon, ultimately, we may see a sort of pan-ASEAN visa coming to fruition at some point in the future.

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