Indonesia, a vast and diverse archipelago, offers an incredible experience defined by its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality.
If you are planning a trip in 2027, here is your essential guide to navigating entry requirements, logistics, and local customs.
For official Government Travel Advice: Australia: Smartraveller.
Entry Requirements & Visas for 2027
Indonesia uses a unified digital process for arrivals plus standard visa rules.
1. Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival in Indonesia.
2. Visa on Arrival (VOA) / e-VOA
Most tourists are eligible for a Visa on Arrival. The Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) is available online:
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Initial stay | 30 days |
| Extension | Extendable once for an additional 30 days (maximum 60 days total) |
| Cost | IDR 500,000 for the VOA/e-VOA at the time of writing (card payments may incur processing fees). In August 2026 Indonesian Immigration announced a planned increase to IDR 750,000 for an e-VOA obtained before departure and IDR 1,000,000 for a VOA obtained on arrival. No start date has been set, so check the official eVisa site before you pay. |
| Tip | Apply for the e-VOA online before departure and keep the downloadable approval. If the planned new fees start, applying before you fly will also be the cheaper option. |
3. All Indonesia: Arrival Card & Travel Portal
Before arriving at an international entry point (air or sea), complete the free All Indonesia arrival declaration. Since 1 October 2025 it is mandatory for all international arrivals and combines the immigration, customs, health and quarantine declarations in one form. The e-VOA is a separate application on the official eVisa site above.
When to submit: From 3 days before arrival, ideally before you board. You’ll receive a QR code to show at checkpoints. Completing it before you fly helps you avoid delays at the airport.
4. Bali Tourist Levy (Bali only)
Foreign tourists visiting Bali must pay an IDR 150,000 levy per person, once per trip, separate from any visa fee. Payment is cashless. The Bali government strongly encourages paying online before you travel (counters are also available at Bali’s airport and port), and your levy voucher with a QR code is emailed to you, so keep it handy:
Official portal: Love Bali
⚙️ Essential Travel Logistics
Transportation (Gojek vs. Grab)
These ride-hailing “super apps” are widely used in cities and tourist areas for cars, motorbike taxis (ojek), and deliveries.
| App | Key advantage | Payment notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grab | Often supports international cards directly in-app | Convenient if you prefer not to handle cash |
| Gojek | Competitive “local” pricing and broad service menu | Typically uses GoPay top-ups; some cards and cash options exist |
Tip: Install both apps. Motorbike taxi is usually fastest for short urban hops.
Connectivity (SIM Card & Wi-Fi)
- Best coverage: Telkomsel (tourist SIM/eSIM) offers the widest, most reliable network across islands, including many remote areas.
- Where to buy: Airport kiosks and official shops. Bring your passport (and device IMEI if requested) for registration.
- eSIM: If your phone supports eSIM, purchasing online before travel gives instant data on arrival.
Electricity (Plugs & Voltage)
- Voltage: 230V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Plug types: Type C and Type F
Action: Travellers from North America, the UK, or Australia will need a Type C/F adapter. Most modern devices are dual-voltage and only require an adapter.
Safety, Scams & Health
Safety & Common Scams
- Carry ID: Always carry your passport or a clear copy (and visa/permit), as officials can ask to see ID, including in Bali.
- Money changers: Use reputable operators (often bank-affiliated). Count cash carefully; avoid “too good to be true” rates.
- ATMs: Prefer machines at major bank branches or inside well-lit malls; shield your PIN.
- Transport fraud: Use Grab/Gojek or insist on a metered taxi. Never board vehicles that didn’t come through your app.
- Petty theft: Secure bags away from the road side; be alert in crowds and on scooters.
Health
- Drink safety: Don’t leave drinks/food unattended. Beware of spiking and dangerous homemade alcohol (e.g., methanol). Stick to reputable, licensed venues.
- Insurance: Take comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and potential evacuation from remote islands.
Indonesian Cultural Etiquette & Local Laws
- Right-hand custom: Use your right hand when giving/receiving items and when eating traditionally.
- Modesty: Cover shoulders/knees in temples, mosques, and villages; follow local dress codes at sacred places.
- Head & feet: Avoid touching adult heads; don’t point with your feet.
- “Rubber time”: Expect flexible timing; patience helps.
- Bali Do’s & Don’ts: Review the provincial guidance for respectful behaviour; disrespecting culture or religion can lead to penalties or deportation.
- New Criminal Code (in force since 2 January 2026): Indonesia’s revised criminal code applies to foreigners as well as locals, including offences related to cohabitation and sex outside marriage. Be mindful of local laws and norms.
- Ramadan: During the Muslim holy month (dates depend on moon sighting; in 2027 it is expected to begin around 8 February and run into early March), avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours in predominantly Muslim areas.
Between Islands in Indonesia
Domestic connections span ferries and flights. Book surfboard space early during peak seasons and allow buffer time for weather-related delays.
Official travel advice: Australia: Smartraveller
Surf in Indonesia
To choose the right season and region for your level (from Bali and Lombok to the Mentawai and Telo Islands), see our Indonesia Surf Travel Guide.
Top Picks for Indonesia
S-Resorts | Hidden Valley Resort | Uluwatu | Bali
A relaxed Bukit Peninsula base close to Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Impossibles and Dreamland, with four pools, daily yoga and a daily beach shuttle. 7 nights from US$670 in a Standard Resort Room (low season).
Macaronis Surf Resort | Mentawai
Just across the bay from Macaronis, one of the most famous lefts in the Mentawai. From US$236 per surfer per night.
Mahi-Mahi Surf Resort | Simeulue, Sumatra’s Outer Islands
Tucked away from the crowds on Simeulue. 7 nights from US$1,493 per person (Java Villa, five sharing).
Oasis Surf Charter | Mentawai
An 88 foot Mentawai classic, fully renovated and rebuilt in 2024, with 6 air-conditioned cabins and Starlink, perfect for 10 to 12 surfers. From US$213 per person per night.
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