Editor’s Note:
Airport procedures, visa regulations, airline terminal assignments, and transportation options change regularly. Travelers should always confirm flight, visa, and terminal information directly with their airline and the Indonesian immigration authorities prior to departure.
- Jakarta – Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK)
- Bali – I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
Jakarta’s airport is named after Indonesia’s first President, Soekarno, and its first Vice President, Mohammad Hatta. Indonesians often refer to the airport simply as “Cengkareng”, after the area where it is located. The airport’s code, CGK, is derived from the name Cengkareng.
Located approximately 20 kilometers northwest of central Jakarta, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is Indonesia’s busiest airport and serves as the primary gateway to the country.
Bali’s airport is named after I Gusti Ngurah Rai, an Indonesian national hero who died in 1946 during Indonesia’s struggle for independence. The airport is located just south of Denpasar and serves as the island’s main international and domestic gateway.
Terminal Information
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport currently operates three passenger terminals. The terminal used for arrival or departure depends on your airline and destination. Because terminal assignments occasionally change, travelers should verify their departure terminal directly with their airline before travelling.
Terminal 3 handles many international and domestic flights, including Garuda Indonesia and numerous international carriers. Terminals 1 and 2 primarily serve domestic and regional flights.
The terminals are separated from one another and passengers making connections may need to transfer between terminals. A free airport Skytrain and shuttle bus system connects the terminals.
At Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, the domestic and international terminal areas are adjacent and can easily be reached on foot.
Arrival Requirements
To enter Indonesia, visitors generally require:
- A passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
- An onward or return ticket.
- A visa if required for their nationality and purpose of visit.
- Compliance with current immigration, customs, and health declaration requirements.
Immigration regulations can change with little notice. Travelers should check the latest requirements through official Indonesian immigration channels before departure.
Visas
Indonesia offers several visa options depending on the purpose of travel.
Many nationalities may obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or apply for an Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) before departure. Travelers intending to work, study, conduct business activities beyond meetings, or stay for extended periods must obtain the appropriate visa before travelling.
Because visa regulations change periodically, visitors should consult official Indonesian immigration websites for the latest information.
Arrival Procedures
Upon arrival, passengers proceed through immigration control where immigration officers may scan passports and capture biometric information such as photographs and fingerprints.
Before leaving the immigration area, verify that your passport has been properly processed and that any visa requirements have been completed correctly.
Indonesia now utilizes electronic arrival and customs declaration systems. Travelers should complete required declarations prior to arrival whenever possible to reduce processing time.
Registering Mobile Phones and Electronic Devices
If you are relocating to Indonesia and plan to stay for an extended period, you should be aware of Indonesia’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) registration requirements.
Mobile phones, tablets, and certain other electronic devices purchased overseas may need to be registered with Indonesian Customs upon arrival if you intend to use them with an Indonesian SIM card. Devices that are not properly registered may eventually be blocked from accessing Indonesian cellular networks, even though they will still function using Wi-Fi.
Passengers arriving at international airports can register eligible devices with Customs during the arrival process. Customs officers may ask to see the device, proof of ownership, and supporting travel documents. Depending on the value of the device and the circumstances of importation, duties and taxes may apply.
Many expatriates overlook this requirement and only discover the issue weeks or months later when attempting to activate an Indonesian SIM card. For this reason, newly arriving residents are strongly encouraged to complete the registration process at the airport before leaving the customs area.
If you forget to register your device on arrival, it may still be possible to complete the process later through designated Customs offices, although the procedure can be more complicated and may involve additional visits and paperwork.
Practical Tip: If you are moving to Indonesia rather than visiting as a tourist, keep your mobile phone, tablet, and purchase receipts easily accessible in your carry-on luggage. Completing the IMEI registration process at the airport can save considerable time and inconvenience later.
Fast Track and Meet-and-Assist Services
Commercial meet-and-assist services are available at major Indonesian airports for travelers who would like assistance navigating visa, immigration, baggage claim, customs, or airport transfers.
These services are particularly useful for elderly travelers, families with young children, first-time visitors, travelers with limited mobility, and business travelers with tight schedules.
Availability, pricing, and providers vary, so travelers should make arrangements in advance whenever possible.
Baggage Claim
After clearing immigration, passengers proceed to the baggage claim area.
Luggage trolleys are generally available free of charge.
Porters are available and may assist with luggage for a reasonable gratuity. If using porter services, it is advisable to agree on the fee beforehand.
ATMs, currency exchange facilities, and transportation booking counters are available in most international arrival areas.
Customs Clearance
Passengers who have nothing to declare should follow the green customs channel.
Customs authorities conduct random inspections and may ask travelers to place luggage through x-ray scanners or open baggage for inspection.
Visitors carrying large quantities of commercial samples, professional equipment, drones, broadcasting equipment, or other specialized items should verify import requirements before travel to avoid delays and additional costs.
Meeting Area
After clearing customs, passengers enter the public arrival hall.
If you are being met by a company representative, hotel driver, relocation consultant, or friend, they will typically be waiting in the arrival area holding a sign displaying your name.
Official transportation counters are also located within the arrivals hall.
Ground Transportation
Airport Rail Link (Jakarta)
The Airport Rail Link provides a convenient connection between Soekarno-Hatta Airport and central Jakarta.
Travel times are generally more predictable than road transportation, making the train a popular option during periods of heavy traffic.
Airport Buses
Airport bus services connect Jakarta Airport with numerous locations throughout Greater Jakarta and neighboring cities.
These services are economical but may not be ideal for travelers carrying significant luggage or families with young children.
Taxis
Official airport taxis are available at both Jakarta and Bali airports.
For Jakarta, Blue Bird Group companies are widely regarded as reliable and are frequently recommended by expatriates. Airport taxi fares vary depending on destination, traffic conditions, toll roads, and vehicle type.
Passengers should only use official airport taxi queues or licensed transportation providers.
Executive Transportation
Executive taxi and chauffeur services are available at both airports.
These services offer higher comfort levels, larger vehicles, English-speaking drivers in some cases, and fixed pricing arrangements.
Many hotels can also arrange airport transfers in advance.
Avoiding Airport Scams
New arrivals are often approached by unofficial drivers, touts, or individuals offering transportation assistance.
For safety and security:
- Use only official airport transportation providers.
- Ignore unsolicited transportation offers.
- Do not hand luggage to strangers.
- Confirm fares before beginning your journey if using a fixed-price service.
- Keep personal belongings with you at all times.
A polite but firm “No, thank you” is usually sufficient.
Domestic Flight Connections
Travelers connecting to domestic flights through Jakarta should allow sufficient time between flights.
Depending on airline arrangements, passengers may need to collect checked baggage, transfer between terminals, re-check luggage, and pass through additional security screening.
Travelers with separate tickets should allow extra time for connections.
Airport Hotels
Several airport hotels are located within or near Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, ranging from transit hotels to full-service international properties.
Bali also offers numerous hotels within a short distance of the airport, particularly in the Tuban and Kuta areas.
Departing from Jakarta
Traffic congestion can significantly affect travel times to the airport.
As a general rule, passengers should allow additional travel time during morning rush hour, evening rush hour, Friday evenings, holiday periods, and periods of heavy rain.
International passengers are generally advised to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure.
Domestic passengers should typically arrive at least two hours before departure.
Bali Tourist Levy
International visitors travelling to Bali should be aware of Bali’s tourist levy, which supports cultural preservation and environmental initiatives. Travelers should check current payment procedures before arrival.
Final Advice for First-Time Visitors
Indonesia’s airports are modern and generally easy to navigate. However, first-time visitors will have a smoother arrival if they:
- Complete all required online declarations before departure.
- Arrange transportation in advance.
- Carry some Indonesian Rupiah for incidental expenses.
- Keep important travel documents readily accessible.
- Register their mobile phone if they are relocating to Indonesia.
- Allow extra time for traffic when departing.
With a little preparation, arriving in Indonesia can be a straightforward and stress-free experience.
