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U.S. DEPARTMENT of STATE — BUREAU of CONSULAR AFFAIRS

International Travel

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Learn About Your Destination

Indonesia

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

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

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.

Country Summary: 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. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

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. 

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

If you decide to travel to Indonesia:

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.

Due to the risks, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Central Papua and Highland Papua because U.S. government employees working in Indonesia must obtain special authorization before traveling to those areas.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

... [READ MORE]

Embassy Messages

Alerts

Quick Facts

PASSPORT VALIDITY:


Six months beyond arrival date.

BLANK PASSPORT PAGES:


Two blank visa pages required for entry stamp.

TOURIST VISA REQUIRED:


Yes, Visa or Visa on Arrival (eVOA).

VACCINATIONS:


None

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY:


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

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT:


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

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: JakartaACS@state.gov

Consulates

U.S. Consulate General Surabaya
Jl. Citra Raya Niaga No. 2
Surabaya 60217, Indonesia
Telephone: +(62)(31) 297-5300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(62)(21) 5083-1000 ext. 0 (operator)
Email: SurabayaACS@state.gov

U.S. Consular Agency Bali
Jalan Hayam Wuruk 310, Denpasar, Bali
Telephone: +(62)(361) 233-605
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(62)(21) 5083-1000 ext. 0 (operator)
Email: CABali@state.gov

American Consulate Medan, Sumatra
Uni Plaza Building
4th Floor (West Tower)
Jl. Let. Jend. MT Haryono A-1
Medan 20231, Indonesia
Telephone: +(62)(21) 50833-1000 ex. 0
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(62)(21) 5083-1000 ex. 0
Email: Sumatra@state.gov

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

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

Entry Requirements: To enter Indonesia, your passport must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. If it does not meet these requirements, you will be denied entry. Avoid traveling with a damaged passport or a passport that has been previously reported lost or stolen, as this has resulted in denials of entry. If you are traveling on an emergency passport, you must obtain a visa before arrival in Indonesia.

Electronic Visa On Arrival (e-VOA): You may apply for an e-VOA in advance if you are entering Indonesia in Jakarta at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport or in Bali at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) International Airport. If you meet the requirements, you can apply for an e-VOA at certain international airports, seaports, or land crossings. You will need a passport with at least 6 months of validity, a departure date with a return or onward flight booking, and must pay a 500,000 rupiah fee (about $35). The e-VOA is valid for 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days (for 500,000 rupiah) at the nearest immigration office one week before it expires. Check the requirements and apply for an e-VOA on the Indonesian Immigration website:

  • Permissible Visa On Arrival activities include:
    • Tourism,
    • Government visits,
    • Business meetings,
    • Procurement of goods,
    • Transit

Visa: For stays over 30 days or for non-VOA purposes, such as employment or journalism, obtain the appropriate visa from an Indonesian embassy or consulate before arrival.

If you overstay your visa, you face a fine of 1 million rupiah per day, and you may be detained, deported, or banned for future travel to Indonesia for a specified period. U.S. citizens have been detained and/or fined for visa overstays or using the wrong visa class. Non-tourism travelers should refer to the Indonesian Immigration website regarding the correct type of visa to procure for specific purposes. Always carry a copy of your passport to establish your identity and proof of visa.

Visit the Embassy of Indonesia website for the most current visa information.

The Government of Indonesia screens incoming passengers in response to reported outbreaks of pandemic illnesses.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Indonesia.

Exiting Indonesia: You must exit Indonesia with the same passport you used to enter. If your passport is replaced, you must obtain a "special pass" (exit permit) from Immigration for your new passport before departing.

Dual-Nationality: The Indonesian government does not recognize dual nationality. If you have dual nationality, you may be required to formally renounce your Indonesian citizenship. Review Indonesian nationality laws and consult a local attorney for specific guidance.

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

For Indonesian emergency services dial:

  • 110 for police
  • 113 for fire

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security messages and easier communication in emergencies.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets at:

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

According to the Indonesian National Police, there were no terrorist attacks in Indonesia since 2022. However, visitors to Indonesia are cautioned that extremists have in the past targeted high-profile events, political rallies, police stations and places of worship. Visitors to Indonesia are cautioned against conduct that may offend local norms or religious sensibilities.

Travel Restrictions:  U.S. government personnel travel to Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) is restricted to mission-essential travel approved in advance by the Embassy due to potential violence, civil disturbance, and political violence.

There have been cases of kidnapping and murder of foreign nationals and threat of violence between groups and civil unrest continue to underlay these risks to travelers. In February 2023, a New Zealand national was taken hostage by an armed group in Paro, Papua Highlands. After over 500 days in captivity, he was released. However, in 2024 another foreign pilot was killed in Papua, and the threat of further violence and civil unrest remains.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: 

Violent Crimes: In the past year, several American citizens have been victims of violent crimes in Indonesia, especially in Bali. You should remain vigilant, follow advisories, and take sensible measures to protect yourself and your belongings. Monitor bags and luggage, carry only essential items, safeguard your passport and bank cards, and avoid traveling alone.

Pickpocketing, sexual assault, vehicle theft, snatch-and-grab robberies, and residential break-ins are common. Avoid isolated areas late at night and stay aware of your surroundings, especially vehicles or individuals that might be following you.

Sexual Violence: Travelers, especially those traveling alone, may face harassment, verbal abuse, and sexual assault. To reduce risk, avoid traveling alone at night, stay vigilant in less populated areas, and be cautious with strangers or new acquaintances, especially when staying in hostels or other types of communal lodging. Never leave food or drinks unattended or with strangers, and avoid accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may be drugged. Local authorities may not respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment.

There have been reports of serious illnesses and even deaths from "drink-spiking" and drink poisoning incidents (methanol-contaminated alcoholic drinks), especially in clubs and nightspots in urban and tourist areas. Reports of sexual assaults and drink spiking have been noted in Bali, Lombok, Gili Islands, and Sumatra. Ensure drinks are prepared in your sight, avoid accepting drinks from strangers, and never leave drinks unattended.

If you are a victim of sexual assault, report it immediately to local authorities and the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Domestic violence is illegal in Indonesia; however, these laws are rarely enforced.

Victims of Crime:
U.S. citizens who are victims of a crime should:

  • Seek prompt medical assistance, if needed.
  • Contact the U.S. Embassy at +62 21-5083-1000.
  • Contact the local police at 112.

Crime Reporting: It can be difficult to report crimes and receive attention from police quickly. U.S. citizens often face language barriers when reporting crimes.

To initiate a criminal investigation, the victim must make a full statement to the local police in person. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. U.S. Embassy or Consulate staff may accompany you to make a police report, but cannot serve as translators when making official statements to the police or during police interviews. U.S. citizen victims may choose to be accompanied by a translator for these processes.

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

We can:

  • 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

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

Demonstrations are common in Jakarta, Surabaya, and other large cities. Avoid demonstrations and mass gatherings, as they can become violent. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in protests, and U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in protests.

  • Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
  • Most demonstrations are peaceful, but they do occasionally turn violent.
  • Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
  • Participating in demonstrations on a tourist visa can lead to deportation.

Scams: Internet romance and financial scams happen in Indonesia. Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.

Taxis and Mobile Apps: Use a reputable taxi company such as Blue Bird or Grab, which can be booked via their apps or hired from major hotels or shopping centers. Before fully entering the taxi, match the photo on the dashboard ID with the driver and make sure there is a working meter. When booking a car via a mobile app, share your journey with a friend using the in-app option, and know the app's security contact information. Be cautious of drivers falsely claiming to be registered with ride-hailing apps.

Credit Card Fraud is common in Indonesia, with criminals "skimming" cards to access and drain bank accounts. Use ATMs in secure locations, such as major bank branches, and check machines for tampering. Regularly monitor your account statements.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.

Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Tourism: The tourism and recreational activity industries in Indonesia are unevenly regulated, with infrequent safety inspections. Hazardous areas and activities may lack proper signage, and staff may not be trained or certified.

  • Water Sports: Diving can be hazardous due to light regulation. Hyperbaric chambers are only available in Bali and Ambon. Several U.S. citizens have died in the past year due to scuba diving, surfing, and drowning incidents at sea.
  • Boating: Boat and ferry incidents are frequent. Vessels often lack adequate safety vests, so passengers should bring their own.
  • Traffic: Traffic is hazardous, and U.S. citizens are frequently injured on rented motorbikes. Many injuries are serious and require either prolonged hospitalization or international medical evacuation. Helmets are required by law.

Mountain Hiking: Never go hiking or climbing alone. When hiking in mountainous areas, obtain current information on local conditions, travel with a reputable guide (a requirement to hike on many mountains), have overseas medical insurance, and carry a local mobile phone. 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. 

Medical treatment is typically available only in major cities and may be basic by U.S. standards. Payment in advance is almost always required for treatment at hospitals. Serious injuries may require medical evacuation to another country. First responders generally cannot provide urgent medical treatment or access areas outside major cities.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our Insurance Coverage Overseas webpage for more information.

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.

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.

Indonesian prison conditions are harsh, overcrowded, and provide minimal services, with prisoners often bearing the cost of basic services, including healthcare.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to Indonesian laws. Violating local laws, even unknowingly, can result in expulsion, arrest, or imprisonment. If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.

Police corruption in Indonesia is widespread and well documented. U.S. citizens arrested under suspicion of a crime frequently tell of coercive police practices and predatory defense lawyers charging high fees and engaging in non-transparent practices. Most often this occurs when U.S. citizens are arrested for illegal drug possession, and oftentimes for small amounts.

Criminal cases can take months or years to resolve, with suspects held without charges for up to 60 days or longer. The revised criminal code, effective January 2026, includes penalties for defamation, blasphemy, cohabitation, and sex outside of marriage.

Convictions for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs in Indonesia can result in heavy fines, long jail sentences, or the death penalty. Some prescription medications legal in the United States, including those for ADHD, are illegal in Indonesia. Marijuana, cannabis, hash, "edibles," and products containing CBD or THC are illegal, even with a medical prescription. Possession can lead to arrest, imprisonment, fines, deportation, or the death penalty. According to Indonesia’s criminal code, potential fines and prison sentences for bringing even small amounts of illegal drugs into Indonesia are often far beyond what is typical in the United States criminal justice system.

Some laws are prosecutable in the U.S. regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries. They may be illegal according to local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Earthquakes, Tsunamis, and Volcanoes: There are approximately 4,000 earthquakes per year in Indonesia, 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.

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

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

International Volunteers:

LGB Travelers:  LGB status or conduct is not illegal in Indonesia, and local authorities may take legal action or tolerate harassment against LGB individuals. Some local governments have laws criminalizing LGB relationships. Same-sex marriages or civil unions recognized elsewhere are not legally recognized in Indonesia. The revised criminal code, effective January 2026, includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage, though implementation details are unclear.

See our LGB 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. 

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

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

See our Travelers with Disabilities page.

Sexual Violence: Tourists visiting and residing in Indonesia have reported incidents of sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, and assault. The Embassy continues to receive sporadic reports regarding incidents of harassment and sexual assaults. To reduce the likelihood of being victimized, take precautions such as avoiding travel to unfamiliar areas at night and traveling alone. Additionally, dress modestly when in public. Always carrying a cell phone is recommended. See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

For medical emergency services in Indonesia dial 118 or 119.

Private ambulance services may also be available regionally:

Jakarta: Emergency Care Paramedic +62 877-7575-6886, info@emergencyresponse.co.id

Ambulance services are:

  • not widely available; training and availability of emergency responders may not meet U.S. standards.
  • Ambulances may not be equipped with the latest medical equipment.
  • Travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the hospital instead of waiting for an ambulance. Sometimes they can take 45 minutes or longer to arrive.

Sanitation and healthcare conditions in Indonesia are below U.S. standards. Routine medical care is available in major cities, but most expatriates leave the country for anything beyond basic procedures. Physicians and hospitals often require payment or sizable deposits before providing care, even in emergencies.

English-speaking Medical Personnel: The quality of English-speaking doctors and hospitals varies, even in large cities, and communication difficulties are common. In remote areas, English-speaking medical personnel may be unavailable.

For a list of English-speaking doctors and hospitals, see our Embassy's website.

Psychological and Psychiatric Services: Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.  Inpatient mental health services are not considered to be at U.S. standards. Other private options may be available in some regions.

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.

See our Health Abroad page for more information.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage. Check the general Traveler Advice for Indonesia. Select your destination in the CDC Travelers’ Health webpage.

The following diseases are prevalent:

Mosquito borne diseases are prevalent in Indonesia. Preventing mosquito bites is strongly encouraged. Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Medicine to prevent malaria is recommended for all travelers to some areas of Indonesia, even for short stays. 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.

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates 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 Insurance Overseas page 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. This is separate and in addition to health insurance.

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

Further health information:

Adventure Travel

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

Water Quality & Food Safety
Tap water is not potable and should not be consumed. 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.

Air Quality:
Air quality in Indonesia’s major cities can range from "unhealthy for sensitive groups" to "unhealthy" and can be a significant problem.

  • Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast, which uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Indonesia. 
  • For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page
  • For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow
  • For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Indonesia. Consider the impact smog and heavy particulate pollution may have 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

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
Marijuana, cannabis, hash, "edibles," and products containing CBD or THC remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make these substances legal. 

U.S. citizens are advised against mailing or shipping any medications to Indonesia, as the authorities closely monitor packages containing pharmaceuticals and may detain or arrest recipients of both prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Even if a medication is legal or prescribed in the United States, it may be considered an illegal narcotic in Indonesia. Therefore, U.S. citizens should only hand-carry prescription medications into the country, ensuring they are in the original packaging with a copy of the prescription. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates cannot assist with the importation or release of medications.

When purchasing medication overseas, exercise caution. Local pharmacies offer products of varying quality, availability, and cost. Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a significant risk, so patronize only reputable pharmacies. Both over-the-counter and prescription medications are often readily available with little control. Counterfeit medications may be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Always consult a medical professional and buy 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.

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. Several ferry accidents and a train collision have resulted in dozens of fatalities and even more injuries because of over-crowding and unsafe conditions.

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

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Indonesia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program

If you intend to fly on private aircraft through Indonesian airspace, get clearances from Indonesian aviation authorities before you depart. You may be detained or receive heavy fines for inadvertently crossing into Indonesian airspace.

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. 

Maritime Travel: Mariners and passengers planning travel to Indonesia should check for U.S. Maritime Advisories and Alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website, and the NGA Navigational Warnings website.

Private vessels have inadvertently anchored in Indonesian waters, especially near Singapore, and have been detained and paid heavy fines.

Piracy: While incidents have dropped in the past ten years, 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.

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).
  • Follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
  • See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

International Parental Child Abduction

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.

Last Updated: May 29, 2025

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for U.S. Citizens

U.S. Embassy Jakarta
Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan No.
3 - 5
Jakarta 10110, Indonesia
Telephone
+(62)(21) 5083-1000
Emergency
+(62)(21) 5083-1000 ext. 0 (operator)
Fax
+(62)(21) 385-7189

Indonesia Map