Indonesia

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services. 

• Dial 110 for police.  
• Dial 113 for ambulance.  

Terrorism 

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.   

Terrorists may target: 

• Large public events (e.g., sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings) 
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants 
• Places of worship 
• Schools  
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights) 

Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them may use simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds.   

Terrorists in Indonesia have targeted high-profile events, political rallies, police stations, and places of worship in the past.  

For more information, review our Terrorism page. 

Demonstrations  

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.  

• Demonstrations are common in Jakarta, Surabaya, and other large cities. 
• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.   
• It is illegal for foreigners to participate in protests. You may be deported if you participate in demonstrations on a tourist visa. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

Crime 

Violent crimes 

U.S. citizens have been victims of violent crimes in Indonesia, especially in Bali.  

• Pickpocketing, sexual assault, vehicle theft, snatch-and-grab robberies, and residential break-ins are common.  
• Avoid isolated areas late at night. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially vehicles or individuals that might be following you. 
• Follow safety warnings and take steps to protect yourself and your belongings.   
• Monitor bags and luggage. Carry only essential items, safeguard your passport and bank cards, and avoid traveling alone. 

Credit card fraud 

• Credit card fraud is common in Indonesia. Criminals "skim" bank cards to access victims’ bank accounts.  
• Use ATMs in secure locations, such as major bank branches, and check machines for tampering.   
• Regularly monitor your account statements. 

Scams 

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams. 

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help. 

Internet romance and financial scams happen in Indonesia. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.  

Common scams include:  

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel 
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad 
• Romance and online dating  
• Money transfers  
• Grandparent and relative targeting  
• Free trip or luggage  
• Lotteries  
• Inheritance notices  
• Work permits and job offers 

Victims of crime 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112. 

Crime reporting 

It can be difficult to report crimes and receive attention from police quickly. You may face language barriers when reporting crimes. 

• To initiate a criminal investigation, the victim must make a full statement to the local police in-person. 
• U.S. embassy or consulate staff may go with you to make a police report but cannot serve as interpreters when making official statements to the police.   
• U.S. citizen victims of crime are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.  

Review our information for Victims of Crime.   

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:  

• Replace a stolen or lost passport. 
• Help you find medical care.   
• Assist you with details on how to report a crime to the police.  
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.  
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.   
• Provide a list of local attorneys. The U.S. embassy or consulate does not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.  
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.  
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home. 

Sexual assault and domestic violence  

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.  

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. Domestic violence is illegal in Indonesia. However, these laws are rarely enforced. 

Solo travelers 

People traveling alone may face harassment, verbal abuse, and sexual assault.  

• Avoid traveling alone at night.  
• Stay alert in less populated areas.  
• 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. 

Drink spiking and poisoning 

Dangerous drink incidents have been reported in clubs and night spots in tourist areas, including:  

• Drink spiking, when someone puts drugs in your drink to rob or assault you 
• Drink poisoning, like alcohol mixed with methanol or other deadly chemicals 

Sexual assault and drink spiking have been reported in Bali, Lombok, Gili Islands, and Sumatra. 

• Ensure drinks are prepared in your sight. 
• Never accept drinks from strangers. 
• Never leave drinks unattended. 

Technology use abroad 

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices: 

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.  
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.   
• Do not connect to public Wi-Fi networks.  
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens. 

GPS  

Prior to using GPS abroad:  

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.  
• The fastest path may not be the safest. 

Tourism safety 

The tourism industry is not well regulated: 

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.  
• Staff may not be trained or certified.  
• Tour operators may not follow national government weather or volcano alerts. 
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.  
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.  
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.  
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel  

Water sports 

• Diving can be dangerous due to minimal safety regulations. Hyperbaric chambers are only available in limited locations, such as Bali, Manado, and Ambon. U.S. citizens have died in Indonesia due to scuba diving, surfing, and drowning incidents at sea. 

Mountain hiking 

• Never go hiking or climbing alone.  
• Dangerous trails may not be clearly labeled. 
• Tour operators may operate despite government warnings. 
• When hiking in mountainous areas, get current information on local conditions.  
• Travel with a reputable guide, especially when hiking mountains.  
• Have overseas medical insurance and carry a local mobile phone.  
• Taking shortcuts through private property is considered trespassing. It is not safe or legal.  
• If possible, ensure your hiking plans are registered and known to local authorities or tourism operators. This helps them find you in these areas in the event of an emergency.  
• Hikers on Puncak Jaya in Central Papua, also known as Papua Tengah, should have realistic primary and backup plans for climbing down the mountain. Tour operators have abandoned climbers.  
• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for adventure travel. 

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties 

U.S. citizens must follow local laws.  

• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned. 
• Police corruption in Indonesia is widespread and well documented.  
• Arrested Americans frequently report coercive police practices and predatory defense lawyers charging high fees and engaging in unclear practices. This occurs mostly in drug arrests, involving small quantities of drugs.  
• Criminal cases can take months or years to resolve. Suspects are held without charges for up to 60 days or longer. 
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law.  Also, be sure to review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad. 
• Before you start a business or a profession in Indonesia, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.   

Indonesian criminal code  

The Indonesian criminal code, effective January 2026, replaces Dutch colonial-era laws and applies to both Indonesians and foreigners. New laws make the following illegal: 

• Sex and cohabitation: Sexual intercourse outside marriage is punishable by up to 1 year in prison. Cohabitation is also banned, but these violations require a complaint from a family member, like a parent, child, or spouse. 
• Insulting state officials: Insulting the president, vice president, or state institutions is illegal. These carry penalties of up to 3 years in prison. 
• Corporate liability: Employees may be criminally punished for wrongdoing related to their business. 
• Illegal drugs: Drug use, possession, and trafficking can result in heavy fines, long jail sentences, and the death penalty in Indonesia. Even small quantities of drugs may result in penalties far beyond what is typical in the United States. 
  • Some prescription medications that are legal in the United States, including amphetamine-based ADHD medications, such as Adderall and Vyvanse, are illegal in Indonesia.  
  • Marijuana, cannabis, hash, edibles, and products containing CBD or THC are illegal, even with a medical prescription.

Arrest notification  

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.  
• If after-hours, call +62-21-5083-1000 and press 0 to connect with the operator.  Operators speak English and Bahasa Indonesia and are available 24 hours a day. They can connect you to an embassy or consulate official in Jakarta, Bali, or Surabaya. 

Detention conditions 

Indonesian prisons are overcrowded, have harsh conditions, and provide minimal services. Prisoners often must pay for basic services, including healthcare. 

• Detention facilities may not provide you with essential medications or medical care.  
• Detainees in Indonesia often can’t get their prescribed or over the counter medications.

Counterfeit and pirated goods 

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.  

• 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 or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.   

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:  

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection  
• U.S. Department of Justice   

Faith-based travelers 

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:   

• Faith-Based Travel 
• Volunteering Abroad 
• International Religious Freedom Reports 

Gay and lesbian travelers

Gay and lesbian relationships are not illegal at the national level in Indonesia. However, local authorities may take legal action or tolerate harassment against LGB individuals.   

• Some local governments have laws criminalizing gay and lesbian relationships.   
• Same-sex marriages or civil unions recognized elsewhere are not legally recognized in Indonesia.   
• The criminal code, effective January 2026, includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage, including same-sex acts.  
• Please review the criminal penalties section for more information. 
• Review our information for gay and lesbian travelers. 

Travelers with accessibility needs 

The law in Indonesia prohibits discrimination against people with mental and physical disabilities, but the law is rarely enforced.  

• People with disabilities face severe difficulties in Indonesia. 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. 
• Review our information on accessibility needs. 

Students 

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.   
• If you wish to study in Indonesia, apply for a student visa at the Indonesian visa website.
• Once you log in to the portal, you will find detailed information about the application process and the specific requirements for getting a student visa. 

Women travelers   

Women visiting and residing in Indonesia have reported incidents of sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, and assault.  

• The U.S. embassy continues to receive sporadic reports regarding incidents of harassment and sexual assault.  
• To reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim, avoid traveling to unfamiliar areas at night or alone.  
• Dress modestly when in public.  
• Always carry a cell phone, but be mindful of your surroundings, such as crowded places or near roadways where snatch and grab crimes may occur.  
• Review our information for Women Travelers.  
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights 

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling. 

Sharia in Aceh Province 

Aceh Province has special authority to enforce Sharia, or Islamic religious law. Other areas enforce Sharia unofficially or through local laws.  

• Sharia laws and penalties may be applied to anyone, including non-Muslims and foreigners, in Aceh. 
• Be respectful of local traditions and customs. If Sharia authorities confront you, ask police for help

Health 

Health resources 

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Indonesia Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.  
• CDC Medical Tourism information  
• World Health Organization 
• Medicine and Health 
• Travel Insurance 

Emergency numbers 

• Dial 118 or 119 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services 

• 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. 
• Private ambulance services may also be available regionally. 

Medical payments and insurance 

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.  

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. 
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad. 
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance. 
• Medical care is not free in Indonesia. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. 
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. 
• Credit card payment is not always available. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance. 
• The U.S. government strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.  

Vaccinations 

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

• CDC Travelers’ Health 
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities  

Health facilities are available throughout Indonesia. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas. 

• Routine medical care is available in major cities. Most foreigners in Indonesia who have the resources leave the country for anything beyond basic procedures. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment or sizable deposits upfront prior to service or admission.  
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.  
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.  
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. The U.S. embassy does not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.  

Prescription medications  

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

• If you enter Indonesia with prescription medication, bring a letter from your doctor with the following details: 
  • Patient name, which should match the passport 
  • Medication name and daily dosage amount 
  • Confirmation the medication is for personal use only. 
• All prescription medication must be declared on the All Indonesia website.  
• Even if a medication is legal or prescribed in the United States, it may be considered an illegal drug in Indonesia. 
• The Indonesian government does not publish a list of which medications are illegal. These decisions may be arbitrary.  
• Marijuana, cannabis, hash, edibles, and products containing CBD or THC are illegal in Indonesia. A medical prescription does not make these substances legal.  
• You should only hand-carry prescription medications into the country. Do not mail or ship medications to Indonesia. Authorities closely monitor packages containing pharmaceuticals. They may detain or arrest recipients of any prescription or over-the-counter medications. 
• The U.S. embassy and consulates cannot help with the importation or release of medications. 
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.  
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places. 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.  

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.  

For more information:  

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection  
• Food and Drug Administration 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy 

• If you are considering traveling to Indonesia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.  
• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Indonesia.

Water quality and food safety  

• In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink.  
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day. 
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact. 
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.  
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.  
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.  
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery. 

Air quality 

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.  

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-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.

Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Indonesia. The air quality in Indonesia is generally poor all year. Smog and heavy particulate pollution may cause health problems. Consult your doctor before traveling.   

People at the greatest risk are:  

• Infants, children, and teens 
• People over 65 
• People with lung disease like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema 
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page

Transportation  

Road conditions and safety 

Driving in Indonesia can be aggressive and unpredictable.  

• Traffic conditions in Indonesia can be dangerous due to congestion, inconsistent enforcement of traffic laws, and unpredictable driving behavior.  
• Drivers frequently change lanes and may ignore traffic signals, speed limits, and right-of-way rules. 
• Roadways are shared by a wide variety of vehicles, including motorcycles, buses, trucks, bicycles, pedicabs, and pushcarts.   
• Motorcycles make up a large share of traffic and weave between vehicles or pass on either side.  
• Commercial vehicles may be overloaded. Aggressive driving behaviors such as sudden lane changes and unsafe passing are common.   
• In collisions involving cars and motorcycles, the driver of the larger vehicle is often presumed responsible by local authorities or the public. 

Traffic laws   

A valid U.S. driver’s license alone is not recognized for driving in Indonesia.  Foreign drivers must carry an International Driving Permit. You may also obtain an Indonesian driver’s license, although the process can be complex and lengthy.   

• Motorcycle helmets are required. 
• Drivers must also carry identification and vehicle registration documents and present them upon request from the police. 
• Drivers involved in traffic accidents should remain at the scene and notify police. This is especially if the accident involves injuries or significant damage.   
• While most interactions with police are routine, travelers occasionally report requests for unofficial payments. If you are issued a fine, request an official receipt and follow local procedures.

Taxis and ride hailing services 

Licensed taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available in major Indonesian cities.   

• Blue bird taxis are generally considered the most reliable and professional ride-hail service.   
• Grab and Gojek are also available options. They provide driver identification, vehicle information, and fare transparency through mobile applications. 
• Arrange transportation through reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing applications. Confirm driver and vehicle information before entering the vehicle.   
• Avoid unlicensed taxis that solicit passengers directly, particularly in airports, tourist areas, and transportation hubs. 
• Most taxi and ride-hail trips occur without issues. However, stay aware of your surroundings and share trip details through the application when possible.  

Safety tips: 

Before fully entering the taxi, match the photo on the dashboard ID with the driver. 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. Make sure you know the app's security contact information.  

Monitor or double-check the route of your ride using Google Maps. 

Be cautious of drivers falsely claiming to be registered with ride-hailing apps. 

Public and commercial transportation  

Air, ferry, and road accidents are common. Accidents often result in death, injuries, and significant damage. 

• The transportation sector has rules, but they are not always followed or enforced. Vehicle maintenance quality varies, and emergency help may be limited in some areas. 
• Indonesia has experienced several fatal plane crashes and non-fatal runway overruns in recent years.  
• Boat and ferry accidents occur periodically and have resulted in passenger injuries and deaths. Vessels may be overcrowded and sometimes lack adequate safety equipment, including life vests. 
• Visit Indonesia's national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety. 
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.  

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 travel 

Inter-island travel by boat or ferry can be dangerous. Storms can appear quickly, and vessels may be overcrowded and lack basic safety equipment. Safety standards vary.  

• Ferries have sunk, resulting in passenger deaths. 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 traveling.  
• Private vessels have inadvertently anchored in Indonesian waters, especially near Singapore. Mariners have faced detention and heavy fines. 

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Indonesia should check the following:   

• U.S. Maritime Advisories  
• U.S. Maritime Alerts  
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings  
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons  

Piracy 

Piracy incidents have dropped in the past 10 years, but maritime piracy and other related crimes in and around Indonesian waters continue.  

• Recent reports include theft of valuables or cargo from boats that are in port and out at sea.  
• Before traveling by sea, review the current security situation with local authorities.  
• Be especially cautious in the Strait of Malacca between Riau Province and Singapore, and in the waters north of Sulawesi and Kalimantan.  
• Stay alert and reduce opportunities for theft. Establish secure areas on board and report all incidents to the coastal state authorities. 

Weather and Natural Disasters 

Weather conditions

Indonesia has a rainy season from November to March or April. It has a dry season from June to October. Temperatures are warm all year.  

Flooding 

• Flooding is the most common weather disaster in Indonesia. It happens mainly during the rainy season. Some cities like Jakarta are sinking. This makes flooding worse. Floods can be severe and affect many areas.  

Landslides 

• Landslides happen during heavy rains. They are especially common in areas where forests have been cut down. A major landslide disaster hit Northern Sumatra in November 2025.  

Forest fires and haze  

• Forest and land fires occur primarily during the June to October dry season. These fires create thick, dangerous smoke and haze that can make breathing difficult.   

Cyclones  

• Cyclones and tropical storms occur more frequently than before.  

Volcanoes  

• Indonesia has 127 active volcanoes. This is more than any other country. Eruptions happen frequently and can cause flight cancellations, force people to leave their homes, and disrupt daily life.  

Check volcano conditions before you travel. 

Earthquakes and tsunamis 

Indonesia experiences more than 10 earthquakes per day, or about 4,000 per year. Most are small, but some cause major damage and can trigger tsunamis.  

• Tsunami warning systems may not work or may be slow. 
• Buildings in Indonesia can collapse during earthquakes. 
• If an earthquake happens near the coast, a tsunami could arrive within minutes. 
• U.S. embassy help may be limited in disaster areas. 
• Follow local authority instructions immediately during earthquakes or tsunamis. 

Helpful resources:  

Check these Indonesian government sources for updates. Use your browser to translate from Indonesian to English. Follow the: 

• Indonesian Disaster Management Agency on X for local news and guidance. 
• National Disaster Management Agency, BNPB, and the Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics, BMKG, for weather and earthquake updates.   
• Magma Indonesia for the latest volcano guidance from the Government of Indonesia.  

Living abroad resources 

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad. 

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married. 
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad. 
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service. 
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits. 

Embassies and consulates