Travel Advisory for Republic of Indonesia
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Republic of Indonesia from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Republic of Indonesia.
The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-09-06
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Range: Level 2 to Level 3
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
45
Safety Index Score
Overview
Indonesia requires a high degree of caution due to risks of terrorism, civil unrest, and natural disasters, particularly in Papua. Travelers should be aware of petty crime, scams, and health advisories, including the need for specific vaccinations and adherence to visa regulations.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Indonesia presents a complex travel environment, necessitating a high degree of caution due to persistent security concerns and a notable risk of natural disasters. The country faces a significant threat of terrorism, with potential targets including tourist areas, government facilities, and public gathering spots. Civil unrest is also a concern, particularly in the Papua region, where separatist movements and security force actions can lead to violent clashes and pose risks to foreigners. Specific provinces like Central Papua and Highland Papua are flagged with 'Do Not Travel' advisories due to ongoing conflict and kidnapping risks.
Beyond security, natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions are frequent and can cause widespread disruption. Travelers should monitor volcanic activity and heed local authority warnings, especially concerning exclusion zones around active volcanoes. Health risks include a range of infectious diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, such as dengue, Zika, and Japanese encephalitis, along with rabies and typhoid. Travelers are advised to consult health professionals for recommended vaccinations and to take precautions against insect bites and unsafe food and water.
Crime is prevalent, ranging from petty theft like pickpocketing in tourist hubs to more violent incidents. Scams, including credit card fraud and online romance scams, are common. Travelers must be vigilant about their belongings, use reputable transportation, and be wary of unsolicited offers. Visa requirements are strict, with a need for valid passports and specific visa types depending on the purpose of visit; overstaying can lead to severe penalties. Local laws, particularly concerning drugs, are strictly enforced with severe penalties, including the death penalty. Cultural sensitivity is important, especially in regions adhering to Sharia law.
Travel by boat and ferry can be hazardous due to poor maintenance and safety standards, while road travel is challenging due to chaotic traffic and aggressive driving. Air travel can be affected by volcanic ash clouds, leading to delays and cancellations. For those venturing into specific regions, special permits might be required, and the availability of medical facilities can be limited, making comprehensive travel insurance crucial.
Beyond security, natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions are frequent and can cause widespread disruption. Travelers should monitor volcanic activity and heed local authority warnings, especially concerning exclusion zones around active volcanoes. Health risks include a range of infectious diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, such as dengue, Zika, and Japanese encephalitis, along with rabies and typhoid. Travelers are advised to consult health professionals for recommended vaccinations and to take precautions against insect bites and unsafe food and water.
Crime is prevalent, ranging from petty theft like pickpocketing in tourist hubs to more violent incidents. Scams, including credit card fraud and online romance scams, are common. Travelers must be vigilant about their belongings, use reputable transportation, and be wary of unsolicited offers. Visa requirements are strict, with a need for valid passports and specific visa types depending on the purpose of visit; overstaying can lead to severe penalties. Local laws, particularly concerning drugs, are strictly enforced with severe penalties, including the death penalty. Cultural sensitivity is important, especially in regions adhering to Sharia law.
Travel by boat and ferry can be hazardous due to poor maintenance and safety standards, while road travel is challenging due to chaotic traffic and aggressive driving. Air travel can be affected by volcanic ash clouds, leading to delays and cancellations. For those venturing into specific regions, special permits might be required, and the availability of medical facilities can be limited, making comprehensive travel insurance crucial.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-09-06 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-14 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-09-04 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-09-06 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-09-06 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-27 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-04-17 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-07-21 | View Source → |
| Auswärtiges Amt | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-07-09 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-16 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-08-20 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-05-27 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-09-06 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-08-19 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-09-06 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-07-30 | View Source → |
| Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-03-04 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow Fever (if arriving from a country with risk of transmission)
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine vaccinations (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, Pertussis, Measles)
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Hepatitis B
- Japanese Encephalitis (for long-term travelers, rural areas, or those with high mosquito exposure)
- Rabies (for travelers at higher risk of animal contact, children, adventure travelers)
- Influenza
- Tuberculosis (for children under 15 on long stays)
- Chikungunya
- Dengue
- Zika virus
- Malaria prophylaxis (depending on itinerary and season, especially in rural areas outside Bali and Jakarta)
Consult a travel health professional at least 8 weeks before your trip for personalized advice on vaccinations and health precautions. Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Be aware of food and water safety precautions to prevent traveler's diarrhea.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Visa on Arrival (VOA) or e-VOA | 30 days (extendable once for 30 days) | IDR 500,000 | Passport valid 6+ months, onward ticket. |
|
| Business Visa | VOA for certain activities / Embassy or e-Visa | 30 days (VOA) or longer for other visas | IDR 500,000 (VOA) / Check Embassy | Valid passport, onward ticket, invitation letter for some. |
|
| Journalist/Media Visa | Embassy or e-Visa | Varies | Check Embassy | Requires prior authorization from Indonesian authorities. |
|
| Social Visit / Cultural Visa | Embassy or e-Visa | Varies | Check Embassy | Requires sponsor letter from Indonesia and Canada. |
|
| Work Visa / KITAS | Embassy or e-Visa | Varies | Check Embassy | Requires sponsor and specific permits. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months beyond arrival date
- Blank Pages Required: 2
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Not legally recognized for adults; minors allowed until 18.
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Required for Visa on Arrival and short-stay visas.
- Currency Limit Declaration: IDR 100,000,000
- Drone Usage Law: Requires special permit from relevant authorities; prohibited in sensitive areas.
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 110 / 112
- Fire Brigade: 113
- Ambulance: 118 / 119
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Visa scams involving fake agents or fraudulent websites charging for services like the All Indonesia arrival card.
- Credit card and ATM fraud through skimming devices and fake support numbers.
- Drink spiking and methanol poisoning in bars and clubs, particularly in tourist areas like Bali and Lombok.
- Online romance and financial scams, often initiated through social media, requesting money transfers.
- Fake taxi drivers or unregistered ride-hailing services, especially at airports and tourist hubs.
- Money exchange scams at unlicensed locations.
- Property scams related to timeshares or rental agreements, especially in Bali.
Cultural Etiquette in Republic of Indonesia
Do
- Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or in more conservative regions like Aceh.
- Use your right hand when giving or receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean.
- Be respectful of local customs, traditions, and religious practices, particularly during Ramadan.
- Greet people politely and use formal titles when addressing elders or officials.
- Bargain respectfully in markets, but be prepared to accept the final price.
- Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in religious or traditional settings.
Don't
- Do not display public displays of affection.
- Do not touch people with your left hand.
- Do not criticize Islam or other religions openly.
- Do not point with your finger; use your thumb or an open hand.
- Do not engage in public criticism of the government or local authorities.
- Do not refuse food or drinks offered by hosts, if possible, but be cautious about accepting from strangers.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-09-06
Canada advises a high degree of caution in Indonesia due to political and social tensions, and the threat of terrorism. Specific warnings are in place for Indonesian Papua, recommending avoidance of non-essential travel due to violent incidents and kidnapping risks. Crime, including violent and petty crime, is prevalent. The country faces significant risks from natural disasters like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Visa regulations are strictly enforced, and travelers must be aware of potential scams, particularly visa scams. Health advice includes precautions against mosquito-borne diseases and food/water safety.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-07-14
The U.S. Department of State advises increased caution in Indonesia due to risks of natural disasters, unrest, and terrorism. A 'Do Not Travel' advisory is in effect for Central Papua and Highland Papua due to civil unrest and conflict. Terrorism remains a threat, with potential targets including Western interests and public places. Crime, including violent crime and pickpocketing, is common. Travelers must comply with strict visa and entry requirements, be aware of drug laws with severe penalties, and take precautions against health risks like dengue and malaria.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-09-04
France advises increased caution in Indonesia, highlighting risks of terrorism, crime, and natural disasters. Specific regions like Indonesian Papua are advised against for tourism due to violence and kidnapping threats. The country faces risks from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods. Petty crime, including pickpocketing and scams, is a concern, especially in tourist areas. Travelers are warned about the dangers of locally produced alcohol containing methanol. Visa requirements must be strictly followed, and adherence to local laws and customs is stressed.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-09-06
The UK's FCDO advises against all travel to specific volcanic exclusion zones in Indonesia due to ongoing activity. Overall, a high degree of caution is recommended due to the threat of terrorism, civil unrest, and crime, particularly sexual assault and bag-snatching in tourist areas. Natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and floods are significant risks. Flight disruptions due to volcanic ash are common. Strict adherence to visa regulations and awareness of drug laws with severe penalties, including the death penalty, are essential. Methanol poisoning from counterfeit alcohol is a serious concern.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-09-06
Smartraveller advises Australians to exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia, with 'Reconsider Travel' advisories for Highland and Central Papua due to security incidents and potential violence. There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attack, with potential targets including tourist areas. Crime, including sexual assault and theft, is prevalent. Natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and floods pose significant risks, and flight disruptions are common. Travelers must complete the 'All Indonesia Arrival Card' and be aware of visa conditions, especially regarding work or content creation on tourist visas. Methanol poisoning and drink spiking are serious health risks.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-05-27
Spain advises traveling with caution and abstaining from certain areas, particularly the island of New Guinea (Papua) where the situation is described as "critical" due to security restrictions and violence. A unique note is the specific mention of passport conditions: authorities will reject entry for passports with detached covers, insufficient blank pages, or provisional passports without a pre-issued visa.
It also highlights the strict "zero tolerance" policy for driving under the influence of alcohol and the high risk of exorbitant charges from hospitals to foreign tourists, even for urgent care, with some medical centers recommending unnecessary surgeries. The advisory specifically warns against methanol poisoning in bars and nightclubs and advises against renting vehicles without a proper contract and insurance.
It also highlights the strict "zero tolerance" policy for driving under the influence of alcohol and the high risk of exorbitant charges from hospitals to foreign tourists, even for urgent care, with some medical centers recommending unnecessary surgeries. The advisory specifically warns against methanol poisoning in bars and nightclubs and advises against renting vehicles without a proper contract and insurance.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-04-17
Ireland advises a high degree of caution in Indonesia, citing security risks, including terrorism and civil unrest, particularly in Papua. Crime, such as sexual assault and drink spiking, is a concern in tourist areas. Natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are prevalent. Travelers must adhere to strict visa requirements, including the 'Visa on Arrival' system and the 'All Indonesia' arrival form. Health advice emphasizes precautions against mosquito-borne diseases and the risks associated with local alcohol consumption.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-07-21
Japan advises a Level 2 'Avoid Unnecessary Travel' for Central and Highland Papua due to unstable security and armed group activity. For all other regions, Level 1 'Exercise Caution' is advised due to risks of terrorism, crime, and civil unrest. The country faces natural disaster risks, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Travelers are warned about scams via social media and fraudulent bank practices. Strict drug laws with severe penalties, including the death penalty, are in effect. Personal identification must be carried at all times.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-07-09
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-08-16
New Zealand advises increased caution in Indonesia, with 'Do Not Travel' advisories for Central and Highland Papua due to kidnapping and civil unrest risks. A high threat of terrorism exists, with potential targets including Western interests and public places. Crime, especially petty crime and drink spiking, is common. Travelers are warned about road safety, particularly motorcycle accidents, and the dangers of maritime travel. Dual nationality may limit consular assistance. Strict drug laws carry severe penalties, including the death penalty.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-08-20
Switzerland advises special attention to personal security in Indonesia, noting risks from separatist movements, ethno-religious tensions, and violent demonstrations. A risk of terrorist attacks exists nationwide, with increased vigilance recommended in crowded places. Specific warnings are in place for Papua and Central Sulawesi due to armed clashes and tribal conflicts. Crime, including petty crime and sexual offenses, is prevalent. Travelers must adhere to local laws, including strict drug regulations with severe penalties, and respect cultural and religious sensitivities, especially in Aceh.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-05-27
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-09-06
The Netherlands advises increased caution in Indonesia, with 'reconsider travel' advisories for Papua provinces due to armed incidents and risks to foreigners. Terrorism is a significant threat, with potential targets including public places and government buildings. Crime, such as pickpocketing and drink spiking, is common. Travelers are warned about methanol poisoning from local alcohol and the need for a valid passport and visa. Sharia law is enforced in Aceh, requiring specific behavioral and dress codes.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-08-19
Italy advises general caution in Indonesia, emphasizing the need for a valid passport with sufficient blank pages and adherence to visa requirements, including the 'Visa on Arrival' (VOA) and the 'All Indonesia' arrival card. Security risks include terrorism, crime, and potential civil unrest. Natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, are a significant concern. Travelers are warned about health risks, including methanol poisoning and infectious diseases, and the limited standard of medical facilities outside major cities. Strict drug laws carry severe penalties.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-09-06
Austria advises caution in Indonesia due to a high risk of terrorist attacks and ethnic/religious tensions in certain regions. Specific areas, including Papua and parts of Sulawesi, require heightened vigilance due to potential violent confrontations. Crime is prevalent, with particular risks in urban areas and tourist spots. Travelers are warned about visa regulations, the need for a valid passport, and strict drug laws with severe penalties, including the death penalty. Natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are a significant concern.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-07-30
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-03-04
Finland advises special caution due to the possibility of terrorist acts and frequent natural disasters, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods. It uniquely mentions the new tourist tax for Bali (IDR 150,000) effective February 14, 2024, advising travelers to check payment instructions.
The advisory highlights that pilfering and threats with bladed weapons are common in Bali and Lombok, particularly in crowded tourist areas. It also specifically warns against traveling by sea from East Kalimantan or Sulawesi to the Philippines due to kidnapping risks in that area, and advises against consuming magic mushrooms which are illegal despite being commonly sold.
The advisory highlights that pilfering and threats with bladed weapons are common in Bali and Lombok, particularly in crowded tourist areas. It also specifically warns against traveling by sea from East Kalimantan or Sulawesi to the Philippines due to kidnapping risks in that area, and advises against consuming magic mushrooms which are illegal despite being commonly sold.
Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.
About Travel Advisories for Republic of Indonesia
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Republic of Indonesia aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.
The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Republic of Indonesia.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Republic of Indonesia and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.
Last updated: 2026-09-06