travel in indonesia covid

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Indonesia Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Indonesia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces and enclosed environments.

Documents & Additional resources

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Can I travel to Indonesia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Indonesia.

Can I travel to Indonesia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Indonesia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Indonesia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Indonesia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Indonesia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Indonesia.

Can I travel to Indonesia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Indonesia?

Mask usage in Indonesia is not required in public spaces and enclosed environments.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Indonesia?

Restaurants in Indonesia are open. Bars in Indonesia are .

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Indonesia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Indonesia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Global Polio January 05, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Indonesia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Indonesia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Indonesia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Indonesia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

In Indonesia poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Indonesia are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Indonesia who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Indonesia. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Indonesia, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Indonesia. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Indonesia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Indonesia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Indonesia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Indonesia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Indonesia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Indonesia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Indonesia may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Indonesia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Indonesia, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Indonesia .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Indonesia.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Indonesia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Emergencies

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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.

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Indonesia on high alert as Covid-19 cases rise; thermal scanners installed at Jakarta airport

JAKARTA – Indonesia has begun to install thermal body scanners at several international entry points, including Jakarta’s main international airport and Batam’s ferry terminal, to screen arriving travellers for Covid-19 amid the surge of infections in the region.

The precautionary measure was taken after the country’s Health Ministry issued a circular on Dec 8 calling for vigilance following a rise in cases in a number of South-east Asian countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines.

In a statement issued on Dec 11, the Health Ministry reiterated the message and urged Indonesians to “postpone travelling to areas which are reporting a spike in Covid-19 cases”, complete their two-dose vaccination, wear masks and wash their hands, and stay home should they fall sick.

Health Ministry spokeswoman Siti Nadia Tarmizi said in the statement that Indonesians travelling overseas are at risk of getting infected due to their interactions with people from other countries.

“It is necessary to ensure that everyone has sufficient immunity to travel so that they do not become infected and become a source of infection during the trip and when returning to their homeland,” she added.

At Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport’s Terminal 2 on the night of Dec 11, The Straits Times saw two thermal body scanners installed near the immigration checkpoint to remotely capture the temperatures of arriving passengers, both foreigners and locals. No other health checks were made.

Ms Naning Nugrahini, who heads the airport’s port health office, told local media on Dec 9 that those who are found to be ill or display symptoms will undergo further examination, including an antigen swab test.

The port health office will also deploy health officers at the airport terminals, set up health posts to tend to passengers showing symptoms of the disease, and coordinate with a team of doctors to carry out contact tracing, she said.

“We are intensifying surveillance of domestic and foreign travellers,” she was quoted as saying by Antara news agency.

Over on the holiday island of Batam, a 40-minute ferry ride away from Singapore, thermal body scanners are also expected to be installed at the island’s five international ports from this week, Batam’s port health official in charge of quarantine and epidemiological surveillance, Dr Romer Simanungkalit, said on Dec 11.

His office is also trying to get approval from the central government to reintroduce an electronic health alert card showing passengers’ travel history and health records for screening and monitoring purposes.

It is not known if precautionary measures will be implemented at all international border entry points across the country.

Mr Muhammad Bisri, head of the health service in Riau Islands province, which Batam is a part of, said he has received no instruction from the Health Ministry on how to deal with the spike in Covid-19 cases in neighbouring countries, including Singapore.

“The situation in Singapore hasn’t had any impact on us yet,” he added.

In a statement on Dec 8, Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) said Covid-19 infections have been on the rise in the country over the past two weeks, but noted that “there is no indication that the variants circulating locally are more transmissible or cause more severe disease”.

In the week of Nov 26 to Dec 2, the estimated number of local Covid-19 infections rose to 32,035 cases, compared with 22,094 cases in the previous week. The average daily hospitalisations rose to 225 from 136 in the week before, MOH said.

The increase could be due to many factors, said MOH, including the year-end travel and festive season, and waning population immunity.

In Indonesia, the Jakarta Health Office on Dec 11 confirmed that two elderly women with underlying medical conditions died from Covid-19 in December. The office also recorded 80 positive cases between Nov 27 and Dec 3, according to the Tempo news website.

The situation, however, is a far cry from the peak of the pandemic in July 2021, when 50,000 confirmed cases and hundreds of deaths were recorded in Indonesia each day.

The latest data by the World Health Organisation showed that between March 2020 and Dec 6, 2023, Indonesia recorded more than 6.81 million confirmed cases, including 161,918 deaths. More than 448 million vaccine doses had been administered as at Nov 22, 2023.

Despite soaring cases, Indonesian tourists to Singapore told The Straits Times that Covid-19 is not deterring them from travelling.

Ms Perdana Handayani, 33, a project administrator, said she spent her weekend sightseeing in Orchard Road and Little India with her friends without worry.

“Covid-19 has become endemic and as common as the flu, so there’s no need to worry too much. Anyway, I have had four vaccine doses and I stay healthy by taking vitamin C supplements every day and exercising, so of course I will continue travelling,” she said.

Another Indonesian traveller, administrative officer Susi, 42, whose name, like many Indonesian names, has only one word, said she had booked her flight in advance and did not want to cancel her trip.

She said: “It’s the government’s job to take care of the people’s health, so I can understand why they ask us to take precautions. To be honest, I was a little worried about the rising cases in Singapore because I have never been infected.

“But there’s no way to avoid the crowds in Singapore, so I just wore a mask everywhere.”

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Update On Indonesia Travel Policies During Covid-19.

September 9, 2022 by Balaram Adhikari

(September 6, 2022) Indonesia’s Covid-19 Task Force ( Satuan Tugas Penanganan Covid-19 ) has announced new policies for domestic and international travel effective as of August 25, 2022.

The following is a summary of key points. You can find more information on the latest travel policies  here .

All travelers must comply with the  health protocols  set forth by the Covid-19 Task Force:

1. Use a three-ply cloth mask or a medical mask that covers the nose, mouth and chin;

2. Change masks regularly every four hours and dispose of old masks in provided places;

3. Wash hands regularly using water and soap or hand sanitizer, especially after touching objects touched by other people;

4. Maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters from other people and avoid crowds;

5. Not allowed to speak on the telephone or face to face while on public transportation (land, rail, sea, river, lake, and air); and

6. Not allowed to eat or drink during flights that are less than two hours long, except for individuals who must take medicine for their health and safety.

The following is a summary of the newest travel policies:

International Travel

1. Visit Visa Exemption  for Tourism  and  VOA for Tourism

A Visit Visa Exemption for Tourism may be granted to nationals of all member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Pursuant to MOLHR Circular Letter Number IMI-0603.GR.01.01 of 2022 regarding Ease of Immigration to Support Sustainable Tourism During the 2019 Corona Virus Disease Pandemic, the number of countries whose citizens are eligible for a VOA for Tourism was increased from 60 to 72. The countries that were added are:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina

Foreigners must show a passport with at least six months of remaining validity, a return ticket or a ticket to continue their journey to another country, and proof of payment for the VOA for tourism (IDR 500,000).

The Visit Visa Exemption for Tourism and VOA for tourism will be granted at immigration checkpoints including airport entry points as listed below (except for Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport in Riau Islands), border post immigration checkpoints as listed below (in addition to Tunon Taka, North Kalimantan), and the following harbor checkpoints:

• Benoa, Bali;
• Bandar Bentan Telani Lagoi, Riau Islands;
• Bandar Seri Udana Lobam, Riau Islands;
• Batam Centre, Riau Islands;
• Citra Tri Tunas, Riau Islands;
• Marina Teluk Senimba, Riau Islands;
• Nongsa Terminal Bahari, Riau Islands;
• Sekupang, Riau Islands;
• Sri Bintan Pura, Riau Islands;
• Tanjung Balai Karimun, Riau Islands; and
• Dumai, Riau.

2 .  Entry Points

• Soekarno-Hatta, Banten;
• Juanda, East Java;
• Ngurah Rai, Bali;
• Hang Nadim, Riau Islands;
• Raja Haji Fisabilillah, Riau Islands;
• Sam Ratulangi, North Sulawesi;
• Zainuddin Abdul Madjid, West Nusa Tenggara;
• Kualanamu, North Sumatra;
• Sultan Hasanuddin, South Sulawesi;
• Yogyakarta, Special Region of Yogyakarta;
• Sultan Iskandar Muda, Aceh;
• Minangkabau, West Sumatra;
• Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, South Sumatra;
• Adisumarmo, Central Java;
• Syamsuddin Noor, South Kalimantan;
• Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman, Sepinggan, East Kalimantan; and
• Sultan Syarif Kasim II, Riau.
• All international harbors in Indonesia are open as entry points for international travelers with recommendation from the Directorate General of Sea Transportation at the Ministry of Transportation.
• Aruk, West Kalimantan;
• Entikong, West Kalimantan;
• Nanga Badau, West Kalimantan;
• Motaain, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Motamasin, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Wini, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Skouw, Papua; and
• viii. Sota, Papua.

3.  Proof of Vaccination Requirement

Travelers must provide a card/certificate (physical/digital) evidencing that they have received a  second dose of  a  Covid-19 vaccine  at least 14 days prior to their departure. Especially for travelers with foreign citizenship, the vaccination card/certificate to be provided must be in English, in addition to the language of the country of origin if other than English.

Unvaccinated travelers with Indonesian citizenship shall be vaccinated at international travel entry points upon arrival after undergoing a symptoms check, or at the quarantine location after receiving a negative result for a RT-PCR test taken on the fourth day of quarantine. Unvaccinated travelers with foreign citizenship who are already in Indonesia and will travel, either domestically or internationally, are required to receive a vaccination in accordance with the provisions of laws and regulations.

4.  Covid-19 Testing Requirement

a. Pre-Departure: Travelers are not required to provide a negative RT-PCR test result taken before departure in their origin country/region.

b. Post-Arrival: Travelers with Covid-19 symptoms or a body temperature above 37.5 degrees Celcius are required to take a RT-PCR test upon arrival. Quarantined travelers (see below for the quarantine requirements) are also required to take a RT-PCR test on the fourth day of quarantine.

5.  Quarantine Requirement

Provided that no Covid-19 symptoms are detected upon arrival or a negative RT-PCR test result is obtained, travelers having received a second dose of a Covid-19 vaccine within 14 days prior to their departure  are not required to be quarantined . Travelers who have received only the  first dose of  a  Covid-19 vaccine   or are unvaccinated  must be quarantined for  5 x24 hours .

For travelers under the age of 18, the quarantine/supervision requirement will follow the applicable requirement for their parents/caretakers/companions. Unvaccinated travelers with special health conditions or comorbidities may resume travel provided they have a doctor’s letter from a government hospital in their departure country stating that the person has not and/or is not able to be vaccinated.

6.  Exemptions

a. The following are exempted from the requirement to provide proof of vaccination:

i. Foreign travelers holding diplomatic/service visa entering Indonesia through a Travel Corridor Arrangement scheme;

ii. Unvaccinated foreign travelers planning to leave Indonesia through domestic transit as long as they do not leave the airport area;

iii. Travelers under the age of 18;

iv. Travelers who have been isolated or treated for Covid-19 and declared inactive in transmitting Covid-19; and

v. Travelers ineligible to receive a Covid-19 vaccine for health reasons.

b. Provided that no Covid-19 symptoms are detected or a negative RT-PCR test result is obtained, unvaccinated Indonesian travelers (have not received a second dose of a Covid-19 vaccine) are eligible to apply for a dispensation from quarantine requirements. Dispensations will be provided selectively, with a limited quota, to applicants that can show they have an urgent condition (i.e., life-threatening health condition or grieving the death of a main family member). Dispensation requests must be submitted at least three days prior to arrival and the dispensation shall apply individually.

Domestic Travel

1. Proof of Vaccination  Requirement

Travelers above the age of 18 must have received a third (booster) dose of vaccine. Foreign travelers above the age of 18 entering Indonesia from abroad must have received at least a second dose of vaccine. As confirmed by the Covid-19 Task Force, “foreign travelers above the age of 18 entering Indonesia from abroad” refers to non-Indonesian travelers who do not have a stay permit.

2.  Quarantine Requirement

Domestic travelers are  not required to be quarantined .

3.  Exemptions

• Travelers aged 6-17 travelling from outside of Indonesia are exempted from the vaccination requirement;
• Travelers under the age of 6 are exempted from the vaccination requirement, but must be accompanied by another traveler who has fulfilled the vaccination requirement;
• Travelers with special health conditions or comorbidities which make them unable to receive a vaccination are exempted from the vaccination and Covid-19 testing requirements if they present a doctor’s letter from a government hospital stating that the person has not and/or is not able to be vaccinated;
• Travelers using a pioneer mode of transportation ( moda transportasi perintis ) are exempted from all travel requirements, including in border areas, underdeveloped, frontier and outermost areas ( wilayah tertinggal, terdepan, terluar ), and on limited sea voyages.

For further information, please contact:

Stephen Igor Warokka , Partner, SSEK

[email protected]

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Indonesia travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 12, 2024 09:05 ET

On this page

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.

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

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to support British nationals in making informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where the FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Mount Marapi, Western Sumatra

FCDO advises against all travel to within 3km of the crater of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra.

Mount Sinabung area, Karo Regency

FCDO advises against all travel within 5 km of the Mount Sinabung crater in Karo Regency, North Sumatra.

Mount Semeru area, Lumajang Regency

FCDO advises against all travel within 5 km of the crater of Mount Semeru in Lumajang Regency, East Java. FCDO also advises against all travel to the southeast area of Mount Semeru along the Besuk Kobokan river (approximately 13 km from the crater). You should stay at least 500 m from the Besuk Kobokan riverbank.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and potential expenses in an emergency.

Related content

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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

Travelling to Indonesia?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

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I've traveled to 9 out of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. Here are the 5 biggest mistakes I made along the way.

• I've traveled solo to nine countries in Southeast Asia.
• I've made many mistakes, from traveling during monsoon season to forgetting to bring enough cash.
• Travelers should make sure they plan ahead and research each country's culture.

Over the last two years, my journey as a travel enthusiast and Business Insider's travel reporter in Singapore has brought me to almost every country in Southeast Asia.

In total, there are 10 countries in Southeast Asia , and I've traveled to nine of them — Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Brunei. Myanmar remains the only country in the region I have not visited, and while I am keen to explore it, I have held off on visiting because of the country's ongoing civil war.

I've watched the sun rise in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and cared for elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I've explored the Bornean jungle in Brunei and crawled the Cu Chi Tunnels in southern Vietnam.

But it hasn't always been easy. I've made several mistakes traveling across the region , especially as a solo traveler. Here are five mistakes I made and how to avoid them.

1. Going during monsoon season and not planning for the weather.

In July, I traveled to Thailand on a reporting trip to cover the budding cannabis industry . There, I was met with heavy rain nearly every day. In Bangkok, I was staying in a hostel in Chakkrawat , a district with narrow, meandering streets, which made it difficult to walk anywhere in the pouring rain.

I didn't plan for the weather, so I didn't have an umbrella or poncho with me and had to rush to get one at the last minute. I also had a packed itinerary with a lot of travel between meetings, which was a hassle in the constant downpour.

Before traveling to Southeast Asia, make sure to avoid two seasons — the monsoon season, which often comes with strong typhoons in countries like the Philippines, and the burning season, where farmers burn land for fertile soil. This is a common occurrence in countries like Laos, Thailand, and the island of Borneo, which is shared between Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

When I traveled to Laos in April last year during the burning season , most of my plans — including a hot air balloon ride — were canceled because of the thick smog. I also didn't have an N95 mask with me, and I ended up with a sore throat.

If you do plan to come during these seasons, make sure to pack accordingly and plan a flexible schedule.

2. Traveling during Ramadan and expecting the same practices everywhere.

Having grown up in Singapore, I'm familiar with the practices during Ramadan , the holy month for Muslims, where they fast for most of the day. I studied Malay for seven years, and in school, I often fasted with my Muslim classmates and ate only in private.

Still, in many cities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia , non-Muslims are free to dine in public, so long as they do so respectfully. But on my trip to Brunei in April — at the height of the burning season and in the middle of Ramadan — there were more practices I needed to observe.

Most restaurants were closed, and diners weren't allowed to eat there even if they were open — only take-out was allowed. Eating in public was a major faux pas even for non-Muslims, and if you want to drink some water, you can only do so when nobody is around.

It wasn't easy, especially as Brunei was sweltering at 100 degrees Fahrenheit on some days. I made do by returning to the hotel for lunch and grabbing a big dinner with the locals at the night market after they had broken their fast.

3. Not packing enough modest outfits when visiting temples and mosques.

Southeast Asia is pretty liberal, and you can wear whatever you want in many places. In popular destinations like Phuket, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia, lots of tourists walk around in bikini tops and shorts, and locals mostly tolerate it.

But there are certain places you do need to cover up, like places of worship, which include temples and mosques. When I visited Angkor Wat — the famed temple complex in Cambodia — in February last year, I found some tourists being told off by the local tour guides for wearing shorts and tank tops — "Tomb Raider" style.

I've learned to err on the right side of caution and bring a sarong wherever I go. It's an easy way to cover up and make an outfit more modest when you need to.

4. Forgetting to pack medication, especially when I plan to eat street food.

Southeast Asia has some of the world's most flavorful food. In every country, you can find food that is cheap and delicious, and that includes Singapore , the world's most expensive city. In countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, street food dishes can cost as little as a dollar.

I eat mostly street food when I travel in Southeast Asia, so medicine for tummy-related illnesses is a must. I've only gotten sick twice from eating street food — and it was the same dish both times— and unfortunately, those were the few times I didn't have medicine with me.

I'm a pretty adventurous eater. I've eaten everything from pufferfish stew to frog porridge and dishes made with intestines off the street. I've learned to wash the utensils provided before digging in and make sure the food is cooked to order and heated up before being served.

5. Relying on my card and not bringing enough cash with me.

In Singapore, I don't really use cash and often use Apple Pay, mobile payments, and cards. But I've found that many stores in other countries in Southeast Asia only accept cash.

For example, on my third trip to Vietnam, I spent an hour trying to make payment via bank transfer after the staff at a luxury perfume shop — which was selling items priced upwards of $200 — informed me at the last minute that they didn't accept card or contactless payment.

I've also found the majority of street vendors in the region only accept mobile payment — which is limited to local banks — or cash. I've learned to change a considerable amount of money before leaving the airport and keep whatever I didn't use for my next trip.

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Pope will travel to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore in longest trip of papacy

FILE -Pope Francis waves as he leaves after his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican announced Friday, April 12 ,2024, confirming the longest trip of Francis’ papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini, File)

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VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican announced Friday, confirming the longest trip of Francis’ papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility.

The Vatican confirmed the Sept. 2-13 visit, saying the 87-year-old pope would visit Jakarta, Indonesia; Port Moresby and Vanimo, Papua New Guinea; Dili, East Timor; and Singapore. Further details will be announced later.

Francis’ health has become a source of increasing concern and speculation, even though the pontiff is able to carry on with a rigorous schedule of meetings at the Vatican and even excursions to local parishes.

Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, had to cancel a planned visit to Dubai late last year after he came down with a bad case of bronchitis. He suffered from respiratory problems all winter and had to curtail his participation in Holy Week events to save his energy for Easter.

Francis has also been using a wheelchair for nearly two years because of bad knee ligaments, and has said that traveling has become increasingly more difficult.

And yet at 11 days, the trip would be the longest of Francis’ papacy, outpacing by a few days some of his long trips to the Americas early on in his 11-year papacy. It will bring the Argentine Jesuit to the world’s most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia, as well as the former Portuguese colony of East Timor, where the Catholic Church wields enormous influence.

There is also a chance of another leg to the trip being added later: This week, the Vatican foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, was in Vietnam and discussed a papal visit, Vatican News reported, without providing details.

In a statement announcing the visit, the Indonesian foreign ministry welcomed the visit and recalled that it had originally been scheduled for 2020 but was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The visit of Pope Francis to Indonesia holds significant importance to the Indonesian people, not only for Catholics but also for all religious communities. The visit is also expected to strengthen the message of tolerance, unity and world peace,” the statement said.

Indonesia is home to roughly 242 million Muslims and 29 million Christians — 8.5 million of whom are Catholics — according to a 2022 report by the Religious Affairs Ministry.

East Timor, which today has a population of about 1.2 million people, is Southeast Asia’s only predominantly Christian nation with the exception of the Philippines. According to the 2015 census, 97.6% of East Timor’s population is Catholic.

The visit to East Timor will likely reignite attention over a clergy sex abuse scandal involving its revered independence hero and Nobel Peace Prize winner. The Vatican confirmed in 2022 that it had sanctioned Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo following allegations that he sexually abused boys there during the 1990s. Belo is believed to now be living in Portugal.

Francis will be the first pope to visit Papua New Guinea since St. John Paul II went there in 1984. The country, in a strategically important part of the South Pacific, has struggled with tribal violence and civil unrest.

John Paul also visited Singapore, in 1986. The country today is home to 395,000 Catholics and Francis in 2022 made its archbishop Singapore’s first cardinal.

In a statement welcoming the visit, Cardinal William Goh, said it “will bring renewed fervor to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times.”

The Vatican has planned only one other papal trip this year — to Belgium to celebrate the anniversary of the country’s Catholic university. Francis has also said he wants to return to his native Argentina , but no plans or dates have been announced.

Karmini contributed from Jakarta, Indonesia.

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Pope Francis to travel to Indonesia, Singapore, East Timor, and Papua New Guinea

By Courtney Mares

Vatican City, Apr 12, 2024 / 06:45 am

Pope Francis will travel to the Southeast Asian countries of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore later this year, the Vatican announced Friday.

The 11-day multi-country voyage from Sept. 2–13 will be the longest international trip of Francis’ papacy.

The trip announcement comes after the 87-year-old pope has slowed down his travel schedule in recent months as health issues have forced him to cancel some public appearances. Francis, who often uses a wheelchair, has not traveled internationally since September 2023.

Pope Francis’ first stop will be Indonesia, home to the largest Muslim population in the world. The country’s 229 million Muslims make up more than 12% of the global Muslim population. Nearly all of Indonesia’s Muslims are Sunni.

Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo of Jakarta welcomed the news that the pope will visit Indonesia from Sept. 3–6.

“Catholics throughout Indonesia want to shake hands with the pope one by one, but we all know that is impossible,” Suharyo said in a video message announcing the visit.

More than 29 million Christians live in Indonesia, 7 million of whom are Catholic. Pope Paul VI visited the country in 1970 and Pope John Paul II traveled there in 1989.

“Hopefully, with this visit, Indonesian Catholics will become more courageous in voicing the truth and become an example for people of other religions in terms of truly religious life, namely love above all, as the pope always emphasizes,” the Indonesian cardinal told UCA News.

Papua New Guinea

Pope Francis will be the second pope to visit Singapore, East Timor, and Papua New Guinea after John Paul II.

The pope will visit the cities of Port Moresby and Vanimo in Papua New Guinea from Sept. 6–9.

Papua New Guinea is a country of nearly 9 million people on the eastern half of the island of New Guinea. The other side of the island consists of two Indonesian provinces. Papua New Guinea is a nation of considerable cultural diversity, comprised of hundreds of ethnic groups indigenous to the island with 851 Indigenous languages spoken in the country.

Nearly all Papua New Guinea citizens are Christians, and 26% of the population is Catholic.

The pope’s next stop on his Southeast Asia tour will be Dili, the capital city of East Timor, from Sept. 9–11.

East Timor is a small country on the island of Timor. It gained independence from Indonesia in 1999, following decades of bloody conflict as the region vied for national sovereignty.

More in Vatican

Pope Francis decries how ‘the unborn with disabilities are aborted’ in throwaway culture

More than 97% of East Timor’s population of 1 million people is Catholic. It is one of only a few Catholic-majority countries in Southeast Asia.

A Catholic bishop from East Timor, Bishop Carlos Filipe Ximenes Belo, received the Nobel Peace Prize together with the country’s second president, Jose Manuel Ramos-Horta, in 1996 for their efforts to reach a peaceful and just end to fighting in the country.

The Vatican confirmed in 2022 that Belo has been under disciplinary restrictions since September 2020 due to accusations of sexual abuse of minors.

Pope Francis will conclude his trip with a visit to the island country of Singapore from Sept. 11–13.

Singapore has the highest GDP per capita in Asia and the second-highest population density of any country in the world. The Archdiocese of Singapore has a diverse population of 395,000 Catholics, offering Masses predominantly in English, Chinese, Tamil, as well as other languages from Southeast Asia.

Nearly 75% of Singapore’s population is ethnic Chinese, according to the 2020 census, which also lists 13% of the population as ethnic Malay and 9% ethnic Indian.

(Story continues below)

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The U.S. Report on International Religious Freedom states that among ethnic Indians in Singapore, 57.3% are Hindu, 23.4% Muslim, and 12.6% Christian. The ethnic Chinese population includes Buddhists (40.4%), Christians (21.6%), Taoists (11.6%), and 25.7% with no religion.

Pope Francis has long expressed interest in visiting Indonesia and other neighboring island nations in Southeast Asia. A papal trip to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and East Timor was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said that the pope’s full schedule for this apostolic journey will be published at a later date.

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Pope Francis set to travel across Asia in longest trip of papacy

P ope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican has announced, confirming the longest trip of Francis’ papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility.

The Vatican confirmed the September 2-13 visit, saying the 87-year-old pope would visit Jakarta, Indonesia; Port Moresby and Vanimo, Papua New Guinea; Dili, East Timor; and Singapore.

Further details will be announced later.

Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, had to cancel a planned visit to Dubai late last year after he came down with a bad case of bronchitis.

He suffered from respiratory problems all winter and had to curtail his participation in Holy Week events to save his energy for Easter.

Francis has also been using a wheelchair for nearly two years because of bad knee ligaments, and has said that traveling has become increasingly more difficult.

And yet at 11 days, the trip would be the longest of Francis’ papacy, outpacing by a few days some of his long trips to the Americas early on in his 11-year papacy.

It will bring the Argentine Jesuit to the world’s most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia, as well as the former Portuguese colony of East Timor, where the Catholic Church wields enormous influence.

There is also a chance of another leg to the trip being added later – this week, the Vatican foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, was in Vietnam and discussed a papal visit, Vatican News reported, without providing details.

In a statement announcing the visit, the Indonesian foreign ministry welcomed the visit and recalled that it had originally been scheduled for 2020 but was postponed because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The visit of Pope Francis to Indonesia holds significant importance to the Indonesian people, not only for Catholics but also for all religious communities. The visit is also expected to strengthen the message of tolerance, unity and world peace,” the statement said.

Indonesia is home to roughly 242 million Muslims and 29 million Christians — 8.5 million of whom are Catholics — according to a 2022 report by the Religious Affairs Ministry.

East Timor, which today has a population of about 1.2 million people, is Southeast Asia’s only predominantly Christian nation with the exception of the Philippines. According to the 2015 census, 97.6% of East Timor’s population is Catholic.

The visit to East Timor will likely reignite attention over a clergy sex abuse scandal involving its revered independence hero and Nobel Peace Prize winner.

The Vatican confirmed in 2022 that it had sanctioned Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo following allegations that he sexually abused boys there during the 1990s. Belo is believed to now be living in Portugal.

Francis will also be the first pope to visit Papua New Guinea since St John Paul II travelled there in 1984. The country, in a strategically important part of the South Pacific, has struggled with tribal violence and civil unrest.

John Paul also visited Singapore in 1986. The country today is home to 395,000 Catholics and Francis in 2022 made its archbishop Singapore’s first cardinal.

In a statement welcoming the visit, Cardinal William Goh, said it “will bring renewed fervour to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times.”

The Vatican has planned only one other papal trip this year — to Belgium to celebrate the anniversary of the country’s Catholic university. Francis has also said he wants to return to his native Argentina, but no plans or dates have been announced.

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Pope Francis to travel in September to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore in longest trip of papacy

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Francis to travel in September to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore in longest trip of papacy.

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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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• International

April 11, 2024 - Israel-Hamas war

By Heather Chen , Antoinette Radford, Tori B. Powell , Aditi Sangal and Elise Hammond , CNN

Our live coverage of Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza has moved  here .

UN committee fails to reach consensus on full Palestinian membership, Security Council president says

From CNN’s Richard Roth and Michael Rios

A specialized UN committee failed to reach a consensus Thursday on Palestinian membership in the United Nations, according to the president of the UN Security Council.

Two-thirds of the committee members were in favor of moving on with membership, with many countries arguing that “Palestine fulfills all the criteria that are required” to be granted full state member status, Malta's Ambassador and Security Council President Vanessa Frazier said. 

She added that no one explicitly objected to the membership qualifications.

Frazier also said she would circulate a draft report on the deliberations as soon as Friday. If the committee doesn’t agree on the report, it could hold another meeting to iron out any differences.

Asked whether the process of deliberating Palestinian membership in the committee is now over, Frazier said, “Unless the next step of agreeing (to) the report of the committee warrants another meeting to iron out the differences, it’s not foreseen that there would be any further committee action.”

But she noted that any UN Security Council member can still table a resolution to vote on Palestinian membership at any time, regardless of the committee's report.

The US and Middle East brace for a possible Iran attack that could escalate the conflict. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

Concerns about a possible Iranian attack against Israel has prompted many diplomatic conversations around the globe.

Here are some developments on diplomacy around the threat of an attack:

• Iran's statement: The imperative for Tehran to "punish" Israel for the deadly strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus last week might have been avoided if the attack had been condemned at the United Nations, Iran’s Mission to the UN said Thursday.
• US and UK diplomacy: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with the foreign ministers of Turkey, China and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday night and Thursday morning to tell them that countries should be urging Iran not to escalate the conflict in the Middle East after  threats made by Tehran against Israel,  according to a State Department spokesperson. The top US general for the Middle East is also in Israel . Additionally, Britain's foreign secretary warned his Iranian counterpart on Thursday that Tehran “must not draw” the Middle East into a wider conflict .
• Israel receives US support: Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke with Blinken and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The US officials expressed the country's support for Israel against Iranian threats. Gallant warned that such an attack could lead to a regional escalation.
• Travel restrictions: The US State Department restricted the travel of US government personnel in Israel in the wake of public threats against Israel by Iran. “The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events,” the alert noted. US officials  are on high alert  for a potential retaliatory strike by Iran or its proxies against Israel.

Meanwhile, here's some other updates:

• Hamas on hostages: A member of Hamas' political bureau said   a prisoner-hostage exchange is being discussed as part of larger ceasefire negotiations. "Part of negotiations is to reach a ceasefire agreement to have enough time and safety to collect final and more precise data" on the hostages held in Gaza, Basem Naim said in a statement on Thursday. "Because they (hostages) are in different palaces, (being held) by different groups, some of them are under the rubble killed with our own people, and we negotiate to get heavy equipment for this purpose."
• Updates on aid to Gaza: It is clear that Israel is working to ramp up humanitarian aid to Gaza, but it has not yet implemented all of the measures it has announced, a top United Nations humanitarian official said. Aid coming in trucks from Israel has to be "segregated from water, from food, from medical items" before it goes into Gaza, said Jamie McGoldrick, the UN’s humanitarian coordinator in Jerusalem. “Getting 400 trucks from Kerem Shalom doesn't mean 400 trucks go into Gaza,” he said, adding that the logistical complications are numerous, and take time to resolve. He also said Israel’s restrictions on movement inside the strip complicate matters.

Anera charity resumes work in Gaza after pausing when Israeli strike killed 7 World Central Kitchen staff

From CNN's Tala Alrajjal and Mohammed Tawfeeq

American Near East Refugee Aid (Anera) has resumed Gaza operations "after a temporary pause" following an airstrike that killed seven World Central Kitchen (WCK) aid workers on April 1.

"As you know, the decision to temporarily pause our operations was not an easy one. We followed the direction of our staff in Gaza, who've faced death, loss, and destruction since the start of the war," Sean Carroll, the president and CEO of Anera, said in a statement on Thursday. "After the killing of Anera staff member Mousa Shawwa , followed by the attack that killed seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen, we made the difficult but necessary decision to pause aid operations on April 2," Carroll added in the statement.

Carroll said Israeli authorities informed him during a meeting Thursday that "certain measures would be taken to protect humanitarian aid workers in Gaza – including Anera's staff."

"With the full support of our Gaza team, we have determined that the circumstances have changed sufficiently to resume our vital humanitarian work in Gaza," Carroll said. 

Anera on Thursday resumed "full operations in Gaza to deliver meals, food parcels, hygiene kits, tents, medical treatments, and more to families in dire need," according to the statement.

Iran says its imperative to punish Israel could have been avoided had UN Security Council condemned attack

From CNN’s Natalie Barr and Adam Pourahmadi

The imperative for Tehran to "punish" Israel for the deadly strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus last week might have been avoided if the attack had been condemned at the United Nations, Iran’s Mission to the UN said Thursday.

“Had the UN Security Council condemned the Zionist regime’s reprehensible act of aggression on our diplomatic premises in Damascus and subsequently brought to justice its perpetrators, the imperative for Iran to punish this rogue regime might have been obviated," the  mission said on X.

The UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attack on April 1, according to a statement from the UN spokesperson Stephan Dujarric. A Security Council discussion was held on April 2 to discuss the attack, but differences among members prevented any formal action or condemnation from taking place.

The United States is on high alert and actively preparing for a “significant” attack by Iran targeting Israeli or American assets in the region  in response to the strike in Damascus  that killed top Iranian commanders.

UK foreign secretary warns Iran not to draw Middle East into wider conflict

From CNN's Natalie Barr

Britain's foreign secretary warned his Iranian counterpart on Thursday that Tehran “must not draw” the Middle East into a wider conflict following a series of escalating threats made by Iran toward Israel.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron told Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian that the United Kingdom was "deeply concerned about the potential for miscalculation leading to further violence. Iran should instead work to de-escalate and prevent further attacks," according to a post on X .

Iran's state-aligned Tasnim news agency on Thursday reported that Amir-Abdollahian had told Cameron that the silence from the UK and the United States following Israel’s attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus last week only served to encourage Israel to continue waging war in Gaza and expand its conflict in the region.

US and Israeli defense leaders discuss fears of Iranian attack

From CNN’s Michael Conte in Washington, DC, Tamar Michaelis in Jerusalem and Larry Register in Atlanta

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant today to “reaffirm the US ironclad commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and its proxies,” according to a Pentagon spokesperson.

The call comes a day after Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Israel " must be punished and it will be" following a strike on an Iranian embassy compound in Syria that killed seven Iranian officials.

Israel “will not tolerate an Iranian attack on its territory,” the statement read, adding that the two defense leaders also discussed detailed preparations “for an Iranian attack against the State of Israel.”

Gallant said an Iranian attack on Israel could lead to a regional escalation.

It is the second discussion held between Gallant and Austin over the past week, according to the statement. Gallant expressed his appreciation for Austin’s personal commitment to the security of the State of Israel and for the deepening cooperation between the defense establishments of both countries, as well as between the Israel Defense Forces and US CENTCOM.

State Department restricts personnel travel in Israel amid concerns over Iranian threats

From CNN's Jennifer Hansler

The US State Department has restricted the travel of US government personnel in Israel in the wake of public threats against Israel by Iran.

“Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be’er Sheva areas until further notice,” a  security alert  posted by the US Embassy Thursday said. “U.S. government personnel are authorized to transit between these three areas for personal travel.” “The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events,” the alert noted.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said he would not “speak to the specific assessments that led to us to restrict our employees and family members’ personal travel, but clearly we are monitoring the threat environment in the Middle East and specifically in Israel.”

“We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days,” Miller said. “Israel is in a very tough neighborhood and we have been monitoring the security situation. You saw us slightly adjust for travel warnings at the beginning of this conflict and we conduct ongoing assessments all the time about the situation on the ground.”

US officials are on high alert for a potential retaliatory strike by Iran or its proxies against Israel.

Hamas says ceasefire with Israel is essential to collect data on hostages held in Gaza by different groups

From CNN's Abeer Salman and Mohammed Tawfeeq

A member of Hamas' political bureau said   a prisoner-hostage exchange is being discussed as part of larger ceasefire negotiations.

"Part of negotiations is to reach a ceasefire agreement to have enough time and safety to collect final and more precise data" on the hostages held in Gaza Basem Naim said in a statement on Thursday. "Because they (hostages) are in different palaces, (being held) by different groups, some of them are under the rubble killed with our own people, and we negotiate to get heavy equipment for this purpose," he added.

Naim's statement was in response to questions from media outlets about whether Hamas has been rejecting the latest proposal, which was made in Cairo over the weekend, because it can not release 40 hostages in the first phase of a three-stage ceasefire deal.

According to an Israeli official and a source familiar with the discussions, Hamas indicated it is currently unable to identify and track down those 40 Israeli hostages, raising fears that more hostages may be dead than are publicly known. 

CNN's record of the conditions of the hostages also suggests there are fewer than 40 living hostages who meet the proposed criteria.

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