Business Customs 

The optimal period for business travel to Indonesia is between September and June. Business activity typically slows down during the school holiday season (June–August), when many professionals take extended leave. Visitors should also be mindful of Indonesia’s religious and national holidays. Business appointments can be difficult to arrange during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, when many business hours are shortened. Productivity also drops significantly during the two weeks following Ramadan, known as the Lebaran holiday, when Indonesians return to their hometowns for Idul Fitri celebrations. It is advisable to consult the Indonesian holiday calendar before finalizing travel dates.

Business attire in Indonesia is modest and tends to be more formal, especially in the early stages of a business relationship. The batik shirt is widely accepted in government and corporate settings; long-sleeved batik is considered formal, while short-sleeved versions are viewed as more casual. Western-style business suits are still worn in many high-level meetings, particularly in finance, law, and international firms. Women should dress conservatively, especially when visiting government institutions or more traditional regions.

Indonesia is a vast and diverse archipelago with more than 700 ethnic groups and various cultural norms. While many urban Indonesians are well-acquainted with Western business practices, interpersonal etiquette and communication styles remain deeply rooted in local customs. Foreign companies should invest time in relationship-building, as trust and personal rapport often precede business negotiations. Business decisions may take longer than expected and involve consensus among multiple stakeholders.

Communication tends to be indirect. In traditional Javanese culture, for example, preserving harmony and avoiding confrontation are highly valued. Saying “no” outright is often avoided, and feedback may be expressed subtly. U.S. businesspeople should listen attentively, watch for non-verbal cues, and follow up in writing for clarity. Patience, humility, and diplomacy are key assets in the Indonesian business environment.

Business meetings usually begin with light conversation and offer sweet tea or coffee, which should be accepted as a gesture of hospitality. It is customary not to drink until the host invites you to do so, often at the end of the meeting. Always use your right hand for giving and receiving items, as the left hand is considered impolite for such gestures. When sitting, avoid pointing the soles of your shoes toward others. While handshakes are common, they are generally soft and accompanied by a slight bow; physical contact should be limited, especially with members of the opposite sex.

Foreign visitors seeking to engage Indonesian counterparts or arrange meetings with U.S. Embassy officials should contact the U.S. Commercial Service office in advance at the U.S. Embassy Jakarta. The U.S. Commercial Service can provide market insights, facilitate introductions, and assist with planning a successful business visit. For assistance, reach out by phone at +62-21-5083-1000 or email at office.jakarta@trade.gov. 

Travel Advisory

Travelers visiting Indonesia may wish to review the State Department Country Specific Information on Indonesia Travel Country Information.  

Visa requirements 

U.S. citizens traveling to Indonesia for business must obtain the appropriate visa before arrival. Travelers must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their entry date, with at least two blank visa pages, and must present proof of onward or return travel. Indonesian immigration authorities strictly enforce these requirements and may deny entry to those who fail to comply.

U.S. citizens can obtain Indonesian visas in advance through the Embassy in Washington, D.C., or Consulate General offices in New York, Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago. For short tourist visits, travelers may be eligible for a 30-day Visa on Arrival, which can be extended once for 30 days in person at an Immigration Office. For stays exceeding 30 days (up to 60 days initially, with the option to extend twice for a total stay of up to 180 days), a Single-Entry Tourist Visa must be obtained before arrival through the embassy, consulates, or authorized visa agents.

U.S. citizens traveling to Indonesia for business should apply for a Business Visa or Limited Stay Visa (ITAS) before departure through the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate. These visas require supporting documents such as a letter of invitation from an Indonesian company and a letter from the traveler’s U.S.-based employer. Although a 30-day Visa on Arrival (VoA) is available at major airports for approximately USD 35, it is only valid for limited business activities like meetings, official visits, and procurement. It does not permit hands-on work, making presentations or working at a trade show, equipment installation, or employment. Exceeding the authorized scope of a VoA can lead to detention, deportation, or blacklisting by Indonesian immigration authorities.

Indonesia strictly enforces visa regulations, and overstaying is treated seriously. A fine of 1 million rupiah (about USD 65) is charged for each day of overstay, with both arrival and departure days counted as full days. Extended violations may result in detention, deportation, or blacklisting, and there have been cases of U.S. citizens jailed for such offenses. Travelers are strongly advised to monitor their visa validity and comply with all terms.

Indonesia enforces strict drug laws, and medications commonly prescribed in the U.S.—such as those for ADHD (e.g., Adderall), anxiety (e.g., Xanax), insomnia (e.g., Ambien), and pain (e.g., codeine)—may be classified as narcotics or psychotropics. Possessing these drugs without proper documentation or prior approval can result in severe legal penalties, including fines, detention, or imprisonment.

Because immigration regulations are subject to change without prior notice, travelers are strongly encouraged to verify the latest requirements directly with the Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration or through the Embassy of Indonesia in Washington, D.C. For up-to-date travel advisories and alerts, please consult the U.S. Department of State’s Indonesia Travel Country Information 

Currency 

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).  

Telecommunications/Electronics

Indonesia’s telecommunications landscape continues to evolve rapidly, driven by increasing mobile penetration, expanding broadband infrastructure, and significant industry consolidation. As of early 2025, the country has transitioned from a fragmented market to one dominated by three major operators: Telkomsel, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH), and the newly formed XLSmart. 

Finalized on April 16, 2025, the $6.5 billion merger between XL Axiata and Smartfren Telecom formed PT XLSmart Telecom Sejahtera (XLSmart), creating Indonesia’s third-largest mobile operator. Combining XL Axiata’s 57.5 million subscribers with Smartfren’s 36.5 million, XLSmart now serves approximately 94.5 million users and holds an estimated 27% market share. The merger aims to improve service quality, accelerate 5G deployment, and broaden digital connectivity across the archipelago. 

Landline telephone services remain available in many urban homes and offices across Indonesia, though their usage has sharply declined with the rise of mobile phones. In major cities, landline numbers typically consist of eight digits, while seven are standard in other regions. Public pay phones have been largely phased out nationwide and made obsolete by widespread mobile adoption.

In Indonesia, mobile phones—commonly known as “handphones”—remain the dominant form of communication, with over 314 million registered SIM cards, surpassing the national population. This is mainly due to users owning multiple SIMs and efforts to bypass IMEI restrictions on unregistered devices. The leading mobile network providers—Telkomsel, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH), and XLSmart—offer a range of competitive prepaid and postpaid data plans. Prepaid SIM cards are readily available at airports, mobile phone outlets, and convenience stores. All SIM cards must be registered using a valid passport or national ID number by law. 

Internet access in Indonesia continues to grow, with both fixed broadband and mobile internet usage on the rise. Urban areas enjoy high-speed fiber optic and cable services from IndiHome, Biznet, MyRepublic, and First Media. 

A December 2024 Opensignal report highlights Biznet and XL Home offering some of the fastest and most reliable broadband in cities such as Jakarta, Bandung, and Medan. Public Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, malls, hotels, and airports, though performance may vary. Meanwhile, government efforts—notably the Palapa Ring project—have significantly improved connectivity in remote regions by expanding the national fiber optic network across the archipelago.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services such as WhatsApp and Zoom are widely used in Indonesia for personal and business communication, offering affordable alternatives to traditional voice calls. Although Skype was officially retired in May 2025 in favor of Microsoft Teams, the demand for VoIP remains strong, supported by high smartphone penetration. In 2024 alone, Indonesia’s smartphone market grew by 15.5% year-over-year, reaching nearly 40 million units and highlighting the country’s rapidly expanding digital user base.

Transportation 

Indonesia’s air connectivity continues to expand as the country strengthens its position as a regional aviation hub. Major international airlines that serve Indonesia include Garuda Indonesia, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Asiana, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. Many carriers operate code-share agreements with U.S. airlines, allowing seamless booking and baggage transfers for travelers flying from the United States.

As of mid 2025, there are still no direct commercial flights between the United States and Indonesia. However, frequent and well-timed connecting flights are available via major transit hubs such as Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, Doha, and Dubai. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta and Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali serve as Indonesia’s primary international gateways, with regular onward domestic connections to cities throughout the archipelago, including Surabaya, Makassar, Yogyakarta, Medan, and Lombok.

Indonesia’s domestic aviation market is well-developed and increasingly competitive, with full-service and low-cost carriers operating frequent routes between major cities. Carriers such as Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, Batik Air, Lion Air, Super Air Jet, and Pelita Air provide extensive coverage across the country’s more than 17,000 islands. To avoid unexpected fees, passengers should verify ticket details and baggage policies, especially with low-cost carriers.

Ground transportation can be challenging, especially in urban areas with severe traffic congestion. Jakarta, in particular, experiences significant delays during rush hours, and travel times between short distances can be unpredictable. A low-cost intercity rail system connects major cities on Java Island, with PT Kereta Api Indonesia offering reliable services, including economy and executive classes. 

Within cities, taxis are widely available, but it is recommended to use reputable providers such as Blue Bird and Silver Bird, both of which offer metered service and English-speaking drivers. Vehicles and professional drivers can be booked in advance through Golden Bird, the executive transport division of Blue Bird, with daily rental prices ranging from USD 120 to $140. In December 2024, Xanh SM Taxi, a premium all-electric taxi service operated by Vietnam’s GSM, launched in Jakarta. Using VinFast electric vehicles it offers a clean, quiet, and professional ride experience. Bookings are available via app, hotline, WhatsApp, or street hail.For more affordable or app-based options, ride-hailing services such as Grab and Gojek are ubiquitous and offer cars, motorcycles, and courier services via mobile apps with integrated digital payment.

Indonesia’s transportation infrastructure is steadily improving, driven by substantial government and private investments in toll roads, ports, railways, and airports. Despite these advancements, logistics in remote or outer island regions remain slow and costly, especially during the rainy season or peak travel periods like Idul Fitri, when demand for transportation and shipping surges significantly. 

Language 

Bahasa Indonesia is the national language spoken nationwide, though many local languages are also used. English is widely understood among business professionals in major cities, and most hotels, international shopping centers, and telephone operators offer English-speaking services. However, proficiency can vary significantly, and while many companies employ English speakers to engage with foreign clients, it is not universally expected or available in all firms. 

Health 

Short-term visitors to Indonesia should ensure they are current on routine childhood immunizations (MMR, DPT, polio, influenza) and Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid vaccines. Since the Hepatitis B series takes six months to complete, early planning is advised. Travelers heading outside major cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, or southern Bali should consider additional precautions, including anti-malaria medication, Japanese Encephalitis vaccination for extended stays in rural agricultural areas, and Rabies vaccination if contact with animals or remote travel is expected. U.S. physicians can provide guidance on these and other travel-related health concerns. 

Air pollution remains a health concern in Indonesia’s major cities, particularly Jakarta, where delicate particulate matter (PM2.5) levels often exceed international safety guidelines. This can affect short-term visitors and long-term residents, especially those with respiratory conditions. Visitors should check air quality levels regularly and take appropriate precautions, such as limiting outdoor activities or wearing masks on high-pollution days.

Dehydration from intestinal illnesses such as severe diarrhea remains a serious health risk for travelers in Indonesia. Prompt treatment is essential; oral rehydration solutions (ORS), readily available at local pharmacies, are effective for mild to moderate cases. If vomiting prevents adequate fluid intake, immediate medical attention at a clinic or hospital is strongly recommended to avoid serious complications.

Dengue Fever remains a significant public health concern in Indonesia. 2024 Indonesia experienced a surge in dengue incidence, with 210,644 confirmed cases and 1,239 deaths as of 14 November 2024 – almost two times higher than in 2023. The disease is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, active during the daytime and breed in standing water. There is no specific treatment, so prevention is key. Travelers can reduce their risk by wearing long sleeves and pants, applying mosquito repellent containing DEET or picaridin, using mosquito nets, or staying in accommodations with screened windows or air conditioning.

Indonesia experienced significant outbreaks of avian influenza (H5N1) between 2005 and 2018, with 200 confirmed human cases and 168 fatalities—the highest case fatality rate globally during that period. No additional cases of Avian Influenza have been reported from 2019 to 2024. Americans who travel to Indonesia should obtain up-to-date health information before departing the U.S.

Zika virus remains a potential, though low-level, risk in Indonesia. While no major outbreaks have occurred in recent years, the virus is still present, and the CDC and WHO advise pregnant women to avoid travel to affected areas due to the risk of severe congenital disabilities like microcephaly. All travelers should take precautions to prevent mosquito bites—using insect repellent, wearing long clothing, and staying in screened or air-conditioned accommodations—and practice safe sex during and after travel, as Zika can also be transmitted sexually.

Travelers can find up-to-date information on vaccinations and health precautions, including protection against insect bites, through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by calling 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) or visiting www.cdc.gov/travel. The World Health Organization (WHO) website at www.who.int is also a valuable resource for details on global infectious disease outbreaks and additional health guidance.

Jakarta has several modern, well-equipped private clinics and hospitals generally suitable for minor illnesses and routine care. However, for severe medical conditions or complex procedures, many expatriates and well-off locals still prefer to travel to Singapore or their home countries, where advanced medical services are more readily available. Indonesia has no centralized emergency response system like the U.S. “911.” Ambulance services are operated independently by hospitals with no standardized protocols, often resulting in delayed response times. In the event of illness or emergency that requires information on medical assistance, please refer to Medical Providers and Clinics/Hospitals
 

Local time, business hours, and holidays

Indonesia has three time zones:

• Eastern Indonesian time is 14 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (13 hours ahead of Eastern Daylight Time).

• Central Indonesia time is 13 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (12 hours ahead of Eastern Daylight Time).

• Western Indonesian time (including Jakarta) is 12 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (11 hours ahead of Eastern Daylight Time).

 Business hours are generally:

• Commerce 0900 -1700 Monday - Friday (note: Friday prayers are at 1200-1300)

• Government 0730 – 1600 Monday – Friday

• Banks 0900 – 1500 Monday – Friday

• Shops 1000 – 2200 Monday – Sunday

List of public holidays in Indonesia Holidays to be observed in 2025 
 

Temporary Entry of Materials and Personal Belongings

Indonesia allows the temporary importation of goods for up to three years from the date of customs notification registration, subject to prior approval from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. An initial shorter period may be granted, with extensions permitted if the total duration does not exceed three years. A financial guarantee may be required to cover potential duties and taxes, and failure to re-export goods within the approved period can lead to fines of up to 100% of applicable import duties. 

Since May 15, 2015, Indonesia has participated in the ATA Carnet system, which enables the temporary duty—and tax-free importation of goods for exhibitions, trade shows, professional use, sporting events, and humanitarian efforts. Recent regulatory updates include Regulation 36/2023, which exempts certain used goods sent by Indonesian migrant workers from various import requirements, and Regulation 3/2024, which broadens the scope of eligible used goods, refines import permit procedures, and tightens controls on passenger imports.

Indonesia allows the temporary importation of certain goods, including support structures for government projects funded by international loans or grants, aircraft and vessels used commercially by Indonesian-registered operators, and containers or transport equipment not utilized within the domestic customs territory and initially regulated under the Ministry of Finance Regulation No. 178/PMK.04/2017, these provisions were updated by Regulation No. 106/PMK.04/2019. The amendment aligns national policy with the Istanbul Convention, streamlining the temporary admission of goods for humanitarian aid, disaster response, and public safety.

Travelers or professionals temporarily bringing goods into Indonesia must submit the required documentation to the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DGCE) and provide a customs guarantee, such as a bank or customs bond, equal to the potential import duties and taxes. These items must remain under customs supervision and cannot be sold, transferred, or consumed in the country.

For individuals entering Indonesia under a temporary stay permit (KITAS – Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas), personal belongings may also be imported duty-free within certain limits. KITAS holders are generally allowed to bring in one 20- or 40-foot container of individual goods, depending on family size and duration of stay. These shipments must arrive within approximately three months of the KITAS issuance date and are subject to customs inspection. The KITAS grants residency for six to 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Individuals applying for a KITAS must submit their application to the Indonesian Immigration Office, which has jurisdiction over their intended residence. Required documentation typically includes a sponsorship letter, a valid passport, endorsements related to work or investment, and additional supporting documents depending on the purpose of stay.

For the most accurate and up-to-date guidance, foreign individuals and companies are advised to consult with licensed customs brokers or the Directorate General of Customs and Excise through the Indonesian National Single Window (INSW) portal at https://www.insw.go.id/.