Indonesia

There's a high threat of terrorist attack in Indonesia.

The Australian Government continues to receive information that terrorists may be planning attacks in Indonesia, including over Christmas.

Staff at the Australian Consulate-General in Surabaya have increased security measures. They're also limiting their movements.

Since January 2016, Indonesian authorities have received threats from groups who say they are planning attacks in Indonesia, including Bali.

Recent terrorist attacks

The terrorist threat level in Indonesia remains high. Attacks could happen anywhere and anytime. This includes places Westerners visit.

In May 2018, terrorists killed 30 people in suicide attacks in Surabaya and Pekanbaru. The attacks targeted police headquarters and churches.

In May 2017, 2 suicide attackers set off bombs at a police post in East Jakarta. The terrorists killed 5 people, including themselves.

In January 2016, terrorists attacked a Starbucks cafe and police post in Central Jakarta. The terrorists set off bombs and fired weapons. Eight people were killed.

Police have publicly said that terrorist suspects remain at large and may seek Western targets.

Indonesian security agencies continue to conduct operations against terrorist groups.

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

Groups linked to, or inspired by, conflict in Iraq and Syria have anti-Western motivations.

Since 2010, police have stopped terrorist groups across the country, including in:

• Bali
• Java, including Jakarta
• Sumatra
• Sulawesi
• West Nusa Tenggara

Be careful during holiday periods, such as:

• Christmas and Easter
• New Year
• Independence Day, 17 August
• Nyepi, Balinese New Year
• Ramadan

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

Terrorists have targeted places of worship, particularly in:

• Poso
• Surabaya
• Solo

Terrorists could attack these again.

When you plan your activities, think about places that could be terrorist targets.

Consider the level of security provided.

Terrorists have attacked or planned to attack:

• airports and airlines
• bars, nightclubs, cafes and restaurants
• clubs, including sporting clubs
• cinemas and theatres
• international hotels
• places of worship
• tourist areas and attractions, tour buses and tour groups

Other possible targets include:

• Western-branded venues, Western interests and businesses
• Jakarta's embassy district and diplomatic missions elsewhere
• international schools and expatriate housing compounds
• central business areas, office buildings and banks
• shopping centres, public transport and transport hubs
• premises and symbols associated with the Indonesian Government
• police
• outdoor recreation events

Suicide attackers have targeted places visited by foreigners. These attackers have killed and injured many people, including Australians. Examples of these attacks include:

• the 2002 and 2005 Bali bombings
• the 2004 bomb attack outside the Australian Embassy in Jakarta
• the 2009 bombing at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel and JW Marriott Hotel in Mega Kuningan, Jakarta

Terrorists have targeted Indonesian government facilities, police stations and checkpoints.

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

Staff at the Australian Embassy and consulates

Security remains at a high level at:

• the Australian Embassy in Jakarta
• the consulates in Bali, Makassar and Surabaya

Staff and families need to be careful when travelling to and from the Embassy.

Central Sulawesi Province

In Poso Regency in Central Sulawesi, Indonesian authorities have ongoing security operations:

• against terrorist groups
• in areas where terrorist groups have attacked civilians
• Past attacks include:
• In December 2018, terrorists killed one man and injured two police in Salubanga Village.
• In May 2017, terrorist groups in Poso exchanged gunfire with security forces.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism
• Travelling at Christmas

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people occur regularly and can turn violent with little notice.

Most events are announced before they happen.

Protests and events are often held near:

• the Presidential Palace
• major government buildings and embassies in Jakarta

Protests may continue at:

• the Embassy in Jakarta
• any of Australia’s Consulates-General in Surabaya, Bali and Makassar

If there are protests, you can expect traffic delays and restricted access to locations.

Phone 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 or sects can sometimes occur, including in Papua.

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

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

If your transport is affected, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Papua Province

Papua experiences regular violent clashes involving armed groups, civilians, Indonesian police and military.

Many people have died in these clashes. This includes members of security forces, armed groups and civilians.

Violent attacks have occurred in and around Jayapura. People have been killed and injured, including 1 foreign national. There's a risk of more attacks.

Violent attacks have occurred in recent years around the Freeport Mine, Papua Province.

Armed groups have:

• killed people in these attacks, including 1 Australian
• attacked vehicles using the road between Grasberg and Timika
• killed people in violent attacks in Puncak Jaya District, Papua Province

In September 2019, 33 civilians were killed after protests and intercommunal conflict in Wamena, Jayawijaya Regency, Papua.

In December 2018, members of an armed group killed 19 civilian construction workers in Nduga regency, Papua.

In November 2017, a police officer was shot and killed in Tembagapura.

More attacks are possible in Papua. Attacks could target infrastructure and national institutions.

A range of crimes, including violent crime, occur in Indonesia. Crimes occur 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

If you're travelling by foot, walk:

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

Theft

Theft, robbery and bag-snatching are common. These crimes can sometimes involve violence.

Be careful of thieves:

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

Thieves sometimes puncture car tyres to target victims. Keep bags and valuables out of sight.

Sexual assault

If you're a victim of sexual assault:

• get immediate medical assistance
• make a full statement to local police, in person, so they can conduct a criminal investigation

Local police can't investigate a crime after you've left Indonesia unless 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.

More information:

• Reducing the risk of sexual assault

Bars and nightclubs

Be alert in bars and nightclubs. Drink-spiking occurs.

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

Don't leave your food or drinks unattended.

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

More information:

• Partying safely

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud happens often.

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.

Use ATMs at controlled and secure places, such as:

• banks
• shops
• shopping centres

Scams and confidence tricks

Beware of scams and confidence tricks.

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 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 in Bali, including:

• land
• houses
• holiday clubs
• timeshare schemes

Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details:

• thoroughly research the proposal
• get legal advice

Using taxis

Crime involving taxis includes:

• 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.

Only use official taxi companies. See Travel

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

It may affect adventure activities, such as:

• bungee jumping
• rafting
• scuba diving
• surfing

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

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

Trekking and climbing

Mountain treks suit only experienced climbers. This includes some treks on Mount Rinjani in Lombok.

Travel with a guide and check the level of difficulty beforehand.

Mount Rinjani is an active volcano. Check local conditions before climbing.

Swimming safety

People have drowned in coastal areas, including in Bali, due to rough seas and strong currents.

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

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

• take warnings seriously
• check local sources for information about potential dangers

Indonesia experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• floods and mudslides
• volcanic activity
• earthquakes
• smoke haze
• 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
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Floods and mudslides

Floods and mudslides occur regularly during the wet season from October to March.

People have died and lost their homes due to floods and mudslides.

Heavy rains can cause significant flooding in wide areas of the greater Jakarta region.

Floods and mudslides can disrupt key services, including:

• emergency and medical care
• telecommunications
• transport
• food and water supplies

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

The risk of contracting a waterborne disease is high during heavy rains and flooding. The risk remains high even after the water recedes.

Volcanoes

Indonesia's active volcanoes can erupt at any time.

Volcanic eruptions can cause widespread loss of life and destruction.

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

• asthma
• bronchitis
• emphysema

Volcanic alert levels may rise quickly. You may be ordered to evacuate at short notice.

If there is volcanic activity:

• follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
• follow evacuation orders
• take official warnings seriously

Mount Agung

Mount Agung has shown increased volcanic activity since late September 2017.

Small scale eruptions began in late November 2017.

Ash from Mount Agung could disrupt flights and airport operations.

Stay outside the exclusion zone around the crater. The exclusion zone can change at short notice.

Contact your travel insurance provider to find out if the Mount Agung volcanic activity affects your policy.

Other volcanoes

Mount Tangkubanparahu, in Bandung, West Java, erupted suddenly in July 2019. Authorities have advised tourists not to stay in the active crater area and have prohibited the public from approaching the area around the Ratu and Upas Crater.

Mount Merapi, near Yogyakarta, has erupted many times.

After an eruption in May 2018, local authorities evacuated people in the area.

Mount Rinjani, on Lombok near Bali, has erupted numerous times in recent years. Eruptions have caused flight disruptions in Bali and Lombok.

Mount Sinabung, North Sumatra, has been erupting frequently since October 2013. Fast-moving rock and gas flows have killed and injured people.

Mount Sinabung eruptions have also caused illnesses and prolonged evacuations of nearby communities. An exclusion zone remains in place around the mountain.

Travel disruption due to volcanoes

Volcanic activity can disrupt domestic and international flights. This includes Bali.

If you're planning to travel to an area near an active volcano, check:

• Indonesian Directorate of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation's (Bahasa Indonesian) daily updates on status and alert levels
• MAGMA Indonesia
• National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB) (Bahasa Indonesian)
• Smithsonian Institution's weekly updates

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

Make sure you have access to enough basics to last beyond your original departure date. This includes:

• accommodation
• money
• medication

If you're concerned about your visa or have overstayed, talk to the Indonesian immigration authorities well before you plan to leave.

More information:

• Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre

Earthquakes

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

There are approximately 4000 earthquakes across Indonesia every year. Around 70 to 100 of these are over 5.5 magnitude.

Earthquakes can cause death, injury and significant damage.

In July and August 2018, strong earthquakes caused widespread death and damage in northern Lombok and the Gili Islands.

The Gili Islands were evacuated and closed to tourists while services were restored.

Tourist facilities on the Gili Islands may take some time to return to normal. However, all areas are now receiving visitors again. Ferry services are also operating normally.

On 28 September 2018, Central Sulawesi experienced a 7.5 magnitude earthquake. The area also experienced strong aftershocks and a tsunami.

Communications and transport infrastructure in the Palu area were damaged and are now being restored.

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
• follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
• follow evacuation orders
• take precautions to avoid exposure to debris and hazardous materials, including asbestos

More information:

• Indonesian Directorate of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (Bahasa Indonesia)

Smoke haze

Smoke haze is typical across much of the north-west part of the archipelago. It's mainly present from July to October.

Kalimantan and Sumatra are generally the worst affected.

Smoke haze could affect your health and travel plans.

More information:

• Haze Action Online for a current smoke haze map

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.

In December 2018, an undersea landslide at Mount Anak Krakatau volcano caused a tsunami. The tsunami hit coastal areas of the Sunda Strait.

The tsunami affected:

• Pandeglang district
• South Lampung district
• Serang district
• Sumatra and Java Islands, including the resort area of Anyer

The tsunami caused significant loss of life.

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

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

This advice predates COVID-19 and the Australian Government's travel ban for all Australians.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including 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 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.

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 need counselling services, contact the Australian Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra on +61 2 6261 3305 and ask to speak to a Lifeline telephone counsellor.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

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 medication, check if it's legal in Indonesia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

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

• what the medicine is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal 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.

More information:

• Medications

COVID-19 remains a risk in Indonesia. Indonesia has implemented strict COVID-19 quarantine controls for foreign nationals. See Travel for details.

If you’re an Australian visitor in Indonesia leave now – don’t delay. If you’re a long-term Australian resident of Indonesia, consider whether you have the support and access to effective health services you and your family will need. If in doubt, we recommend you return to Australia.

Foreign nationals are among those who have died from COVID-19 in Indonesia, including in Bali. COVID-19 transmission has now spread widely across the archipelago to all 34 provinces, including Bali. Testing and infection control facilities are limited. Critical care for Australians who become seriously ill, including in Bali, is significantly below the standard available in Australia. Testing rates are low given the size of the population and accurate data about the actual transmission of the virus is unclear. The Australian Government cannot guarantee your access to hospital and other health services in Indonesia. These services are already under significant strain.

If you're confirmed as having COVID-19, you'll likely be placed into quarantine by Indonesian authorities, and be directed to a designated isolation or health facility.

• Indonesian authorities advise that COVID-19 patients will be required to be initially treated in Indonesia.
• Medical evacuation to Australia for medical conditions including COVID-19 is possible, but is very expensive and may not be covered by travel insurance.

If you're in Indonesia, see our bulletin on COVID-19 for advice on measures to reduce the risk of infection. 

More information:

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health)
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Legionnaires' disease

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

More information:

• 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)

Polio

Cases of vaccine-derived polio virus (type 1) are reported in Papua Province.

Check that you're vaccinated against polio.

Drink poisoning

People have been poisoned by alcoholic drinks contaminated with harmful substances, including methanol.

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

Locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died or become seriously ill from poisoned drinks.

Contaminated drinks have included:

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

People have died after drinking contaminated arak, a traditional rice-based spirit.

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:

• fatigue
• headaches
• nausea
• 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.

Rabies

Rabies is a risk throughout Indonesia, especially in:

• Bali
• nearby islands
• Nias, off the coast of Sumatra

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.

To protect yourself from rabies:

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

Talk to your doctor about getting a pre-exposure rabies vaccination if you're planning to:

• stay in Indonesia for a long time
• work with animals

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

• popular markets
• tourist destinations
• sanctuaries

If bitten or scratched by an animal:

• immediately use soap and water to wash the wound thoroughly
• seek urgent medical attention

Rabies treatment in Indonesia may be limited. If you're bitten you may need to return to Australia, or travel to another country, for immediate treatment.

Measles

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.

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:

• anxiety
• erratic behaviour
• psychosis
• severe hallucinations

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

Zika virus

Zika virus can occur in Indonesia.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

The Australian Department of Health advises pregnant women to:

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

Malaria

Malaria, including chloroquine-resistant strains, is widespread in rural areas. It isn't common in Jakarta.

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Dengue

Dengue occurs in Indonesia, including Bali 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's no vaccination or treatment available for dengue.

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.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is a risk for travellers, particularly in Bali. 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:

• cholera
• hepatitis
• tuberculosis
• typhoid

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

Tattoos

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

In June 2019, a serious case highlighted the risks of black henna tattoos.

Medical facilities

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

Hospital staff often use physical restraints on patients.

Hospitals expect families to provide support to patients.

Psychiatric and psychological services are limited in Indonesia.

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

Before admitting patients, hospitals usually need:

• guarantee of payment
• confirmation of medical insurance
• up-front deposit for services

Decompression chambers are available at:

• Bali's Sanglah General Hospital
• hospitals in Jakarta and Manado

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.

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

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.

More information:

• Arrested or jailed

Drugs

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

You may face heavy fines or jail for possessing even small amounts of drugs, including marijuana.

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

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

Some prescription medications that are available in Australia are illegal in Indonesia.

See Health

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

The Indonesian Parliament recently considered revising the Criminal Code. This included provisions that would have prohibited adultery, cohabitation, sex outside of marriage, indecent acts, insulting public officials or subverting the national ideology of Pancasila. Passage of the draft law has now been delayed.

A revised Criminal Code could have implications for foreign residents and visitors, including tourists. Any changes will only enter into force two years after new legislation is passed.

The death penalty exists for many crimes in Indonesia.

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

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

• Australian passport
• Resident's Stay Permit

Gambling is illegal.

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

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

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dress

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.

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

In May 2017, police raided an all-male venue in Jakarta. They detained 141 men on suspicion of committing offences under Indonesia's pornography law. The police jailed 10 men for 2 years and fined them $A100,000.

Same-sex relationships are illegal in the province of Aceh. They may attract corporal punishment.

In March 2017, 2 men were found guilty of violating Aceh province's shariah laws on 'homosexual acts'. They were sentenced to 80 lashes of the cane.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Ramadan

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan will be from late April to late May in 2020. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

Don't eat, drink or smoke in public or in front of people who are fasting.

Aceh

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 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:

• gambling
• drinking alcohol
• prostitution
• same-sex relationships
• extra-marital sex

It also requires a conservative standard of dress.

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

Indonesia doesn't allow dual nationality for adults.

A child of Indonesian and Australian parents can maintain citizenship of both countries until the age of 18 years.

More information:

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

Indonesia has suspended visa on arrival for all visitors including Australians. To apply for a visa you'll need a health certificate, including a negative COVID-19 test result issued within the 7 days prior to departure. Contact your nearest embassy or consulate of Indonesia for details.

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration (DGI) is no longer automatically extending expired visas or stay permits under the COVID-19 emergency arrangements. Summary information on the changes is available on the DGI Instagram account.

• If you're in Indonesia consult DGI to confirm your stay permit’s validity and how and whether it can be renewed under the new arrangements. Overstaying your permit may result in fines, detention and/or deportation. 
• If you hold a current or expired stay permit and you're currently outside Indonesia but planning to return, contact DGI or your nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate for further information on how to renew or apply for a new visa. 

Overstaying your permit may result in fines, detention and/or deportation. Flight options to Australia are already very limited and may reduce further. Be aware there are mandatory quarantine requirements if you return to Australia. You may be required to pay for the cost of your quarantine in Australia.

• Check your visa and permit, and contact DGI for advice specific to your needs.
• Visit www.imigrasi.go.id, click on the ‘English’ option on the top right hand page, and click ‘Check Application’ at the top right corner to review the status of your application.
• You can also contact DGI directly via WhatsApp 0821 1430 9957 for Immigration Stay Permits Information Service and other visa matters at 0821 1376 7654 or alternatively by email at visa@imigrasi.go.id. 
• The Visa Online system is maintained by the Directorate General of Immigration. If you experience technical issues, please contact DGI on the details above.

The following information may not apply while COVID-19 travel restrictions are in place in Indonesia.

Visa-free travel for short stays

If you plan to stay more than 30 days, apply for a visa from an embassy or consulate of Indonesia.

Visa on arrival remains valid for 30 days and can be extend for another 30 days.

You can get a visa on arrival only from some entry points. If you plan to enter Indonesia by land, contact the embassy or consulate of Indonesia for details.

The period of your stay starts on the day you arrive. Part days are counted as whole days.

You face fines if you overstay your visa.

Some airlines flying from Australia to Jakarta and Bali offer on-board visa processing.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

You can't work or conduct research in Indonesia unless you have the appropriate visa. Fines of 1,000,000 IDR (approx. AU$100) per day apply for the maximum 60 day overstay period.

If you breach Indonesian immigration regulations, you may face:

• fines
• jail
• 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 decisions are final. The Australian Government can't help you.

If you're travelling on an emergency passport, you can only enter Indonesia if you have a visa from an embassy or consulate of Indonesia.

Indonesia has implemented strict COVID-19 quarantine controls for foreign nationals. It has ceased international tourist travel and international transits are generally not allowed. If you've an existing resident visa and you're returning from overseas, you'll need to provide a health clearance and undertake quarantine for 14 days on arrival. Your airline will require you to show evidence of a negative COVID‑19 test result before allowing you to board your international flight to Indonesia or domestic flight within Indonesia. 

Indonesia has restricted entry to only those foreign nationals already holding a valid stay permit (KITAS/KITAP, not including new entry visas) until at least 25 January 2021. All such travellers must undergo hotel quarantine. They also require a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken and result received within 72 hours prior to departure. You will be required to undergo a further COVID-19 (PCR) test on arrival, quarantine at a designated hotel for five days, undergo a further PCR test and then await the result of that test in the designated hotel. If any of the tests are positive you will be required to be hospitalised at a designated COVID-19 referral hospital until testing negative.

Entry, exit and transit conditions can change at short notice. Follow the advice of Garuda Indonesia and the local authorities, and monitor media for the latest update.

If you’re in Indonesia consider whether you have the support and access to effective health services you and your family will need. 

Flight options to Australia are already very limited and may reduce further. Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin have ceased flights. Garuda continues to fly a limited number of flights. Contact airlines or travel providers for the latest information.

Domestic travel restrictions and social distancing measures remain in place for some localities and provinces, and are legally enforceable.

• For domestic flights within Indonesia, you may require a negative COVID-19 test result.
• Domestic travellers to Bali will require the results of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test (conducted at most 48 hours prior to departure) or a negative Rapid-antigen test (conducted at most 24 hours prior to departure).
• Domestic travellers to, from and within Java (including Jakarta) will require the results of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test (conducted at most 72 hours prior to departure) or a negative Rapid-antigen test (conducted at most 48 hours prior to departure)
• Random testing may also be conducted by local authorities on inter-provincial travellers using public transport or private vehicles
• Additional requirements apply to enter some provinces and districts.

Contact your travel provider or check Garuda Indonesia for complete and up-to-date details.

If you choose to stay, be aware our ability to provide consular assistance may be very limited due to restrictions on movement and other services. For passport or consular services call or email in advance for an appointment.

More information:

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) – information for Australian travellers
• What to do when you can't get home
• COVID-19 and consular services overseas
• COVID-19 - advice for Australians living, studying or working overseas
• Medical assistance overseas

The following information may not apply while COVID-19 travel restrictions are in place in Indonesia.

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 90 days:

• register with the local immigration office
• make sure you have the right visa

More information:

• Embassy of Indonesia in Canberra

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

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

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

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 or consulate.

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).

Declare cash in excess of 100,000,000 IDR or equivalent when you arrive and leave. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

100,000,000 IDR is worth about $A10,000.

You need a travel permit or Surat Keterangan Jalan to travel to some areas of Papua and West Papua.

Check if you need a permit with the nearest embassy or consulate of Indonesia.

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.

According to the World Health Organization, you're almost 3 times 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.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

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

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 can be crowded, particularly:

• around public holidays
• during peak commute times

Safety standards may not be observed.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Taxis

Only use official taxi companies. You can book these:

• by phone
• from inside airports
• at stands at major hotels

Check your taxi is official.

Unofficial operators can have taxis that look similar to those run by reputable companies.

See Safety

Rail travel

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

Commuter trains operate in Jakarta.

Trains can be crowded, particularly:

• around public holidays
• during peak commuter times

Travel between islands

Travel by ferry or boat can be dangerous.

Passenger limits aren't always observed.

Equipment may not be properly maintained.

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

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 and life jackets
• wear a life jacket at all times
• take life jackets for any children you're travelling with
• ask your tour operator or crew about safety standards

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

Avoid travelling by water after dark unless the vessel is properly equipped.

More information:

• Travelling by boat

Piracy

Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Indonesia.

More information:

• International Maritime Bureau

Air travel

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.

A Lion Air plane fatally crashed on 29 October 2018. Since then, Australian government officials and contractors in Indonesia have been instructed not to fly on Lion Air or subsidiary airlines that operate outside of Australia.

The instruction was based on work health and safety responsibilities to staff.

The decision will be reviewed when the full findings of the official crash investigation are made.

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

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire services

Call 113.

Ambulance and rescue services

Call 118.

Medical emergencies

Call 119.

Police

Call 110 or 112.

SMS 1717.

Tourist Police, Bali

Call (+0361) 759 687.

Tourist Police, Jakarta

Call (+201) 526 4073.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

More information:

• Police stations in Bali

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Contact Centrelink on 001 803 61 035.

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

Australians remaining in Indonesia should register with the Australian Embassy at covid19.dfat.gov.au. Registration will enable us to contact you directly if required during the COVID-19 epidemic in Indonesia. We also continue to encourage you to subscribe separately to this travel advice for Indonesia.

Australian Embassy, Jakarta (by appointment only)

Jalan Patra Kuningan Ray Kav. 1-4

Jakarta Selatan 12950

Phone: (+62 21) 2550 5555

Fax: (+62 21) 2550 5467

Email: consular.jakarta@dfat.gov.au

Website: indonesia.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australian Embassy Jakarta, Indonesia

Twitter: @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

Fax: (+ 62 361) 2000 195 (general enquiries)

Email: bali.congen@dfat.gov.au

Website: bali.indonesia.embassy.gov.au

Twitter: @KonJenBali

Australian Consulate-General, Makassar

Wisma Kalla Lt. 7

Jalan Dr Sam Ratulangi No. 8

Makassar South Sulawesi 90125

Phone: (+62 411) 366 4100

Fax: (+62 411) 366 4130

Email: consular.makassar@dfat.gov.au

Website: makassar.consulate.gov.au

Facebook: Australian Consulate-General, Makassar, Sulawesi

Twitter: @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: consular.surabaya@dfat.gov.au

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