You are advised to maintain a high level of security awareness when travelling in Indonesia.

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in recent years in Jakarta and on Bali, resulting in significant loss of life to both foreigners and Indonesians. While effective counterterrorism measures by Indonesian authorities have reduced the risk of terrorist attacks, terrorist cells are believed to still exist and could have the capacity to carry out attacks anywhere in the country.

On July 17, 2009, two bombings occurred at the JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton Mega Kuningan hotels in Jakarta, resulting in death and injuries. Security forces throughout Indonesia, including Bali, are on heightened alert as a result of these incidents. Travellers should exercise extreme caution as further attacks in Indonesia are possible, and Bali remains an attractive target for such attacks. Canadians in or travelling to Indonesia, including Bali, should remain alert and maintain a high level of security awareness.

High-profile Western facilities or businesses and places frequented by foreigners may be considered potential terrorist targets. Canadian travellers should assess their own safety and security and exercise caution in choosing accommodations, places of worship, shopping venues, restaurants, clubs, and other tourist facilities. They should opt for accommodation facilities with adequate security arrangements in place.

Demonstrations

Large and occasionally violent protests have taken place in many parts of the country over a wide range of issues. Travellers should exercise caution and avoid all demonstrations and gatherings. Canadians should also monitor local news and follow the advice of local authorities. Sporadic ethnic and religious tensions in areas of Indonesia have resulted in violence and civil unrest.

Bali

While Bali is a popular tourist destination, attacks targeting foreigners have occurred. These include a series of explosions in October 2005 at Kuta Square and at Jimbaran Bay on the resort island, and the October 2002 bombings in Bali, all of which resulted in deaths and injuries. Canadians should exercise caution and maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and in all places.

Canadians should be aware that scores of people, including several foreigners, have died in Bali due to methanol poisoning. These deaths have been linked to the consumption of “Arak” (a locally brewed alcoholic beverage) that had been made with methanol.

East Kalimantan

The Philippines-based Abu Sayyaf group has kidnapped tourists from Sabah, Malaysia, and the Philippines. They have not extended their activities into neighbouring coastal areas of Indonesia, including East Kalimantan and North Sulawesi, but are capable of doing so. Canadians visiting or residing in these areas should be aware of this potential risk.

Aceh

Canadians travelling to Aceh should do so only in conjunction with well-established and reputable organizations. They should exercise extreme caution at all times and in all places and register and remain in contact with the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta. Travel at night should be avoided. Travelling alone should also be avoided. Canadians should also be vigilant in the capital, Banda Aceh, where there were sporadic attacks targeting foreigners in late 2009.

Shari’a law is enforced for Muslims in Aceh by religious police. Canadians should ensure that their behaviour does not offend local sensitivities, and Canadian Muslims should exercise particular caution as they could be subject to Shari’a law while in Aceh.

Regional Warning
Exercise normal security precautions Exercise high degree of caution Avoid non-essential travel Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the following regions:

a) Central Sulawesi: Religious tensions and conflict around Poso remain. The situation remains tense in Palu, Poso and Tentena.

b) Maluku, Ambon in particular: Long-standing religious and tribal tensions remain in Maluku Province, especially in Ambon. Tensions between Christian and Muslim groups in Ambon resulted in violent incidents on September 11, 2011. Clashes also occurred between 1999 and 2002, and in 2005. The situation is now mostly calm; however the potential for violence remains.

c) Papua: Political tensions and violent incidents increased in October 2011, more specifically in the provinces of Papua and West Papua. In some cases, foreigners and foreign businesses have been targeted. A significant contingent of police officers has been dispatched in Papua following a series of violent incidents in Puncak Jaya. On October 24, the Mulia Airport Police chief was shot and killed by an unknown assailant.

There is an ongoing labour dispute at the Freeport Indonesia mine near Timika. On October 21, three people were killed in three separate attacks near the mine. Many roads in the region have been blocked along with access to the port.

Permits are required to travel to Papua. Entry regulations and permission to remain in Papua may change at any time. Demonstrations may turn violent and should be avoided. Canadians are advised to seek local advice on their travel plans. Kidnapping and killing of foreigners has occurred in the past.

Several climbers of the Carstensz Pyramid (also known as Puncak Jaya or Jaya Kesuma) and surrounding areas in Papua have encountered significant difficulties travelling overland out of the area, resulting in unforeseen costs, delays and inconvenience to the traveller. The Indonesian government regulates and approves permits to the Lorentz National Park, including Carstensz Pyramid. Those planning to visit the area should ensure that proper permits and arrangements for reliable and reputable guides are in place prior to their arrival. The only approved overland access is via a hiking trail from Illaga.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Crime is rising in Indonesia. Armed robberies are being reported regularly and criminals are increasingly using weapons. Petty crime, including pickpocketing and forced cash withdrawals from automated banking machines, remains a serious concern. Travellers should keep car doors locked and windows rolled up at all times. Use reputable taxis from major hotels or book in advance by phone. Standards of police and legal services differ considerably from those in Canada.

Canadians who choose to travel to Indonesia and those currently in Indonesia should take all possible security precautions and exercise extreme caution when visiting commercial and public establishments (hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events) and tourist areas frequented by foreigners, some of which have been targets in the past. Attacks have occurred in tourist areas in Bali and Jakarta, causing deaths and injuries. Canadians should exercise appropriate caution and maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and in all places.

Canadians should be cautious of unfamiliar vehicles parked near residences. Unattended packages should be treated with caution and reported to authorities.

Bomb threats should be taken seriously.

There has been a series of incidents in Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya where males have had strong tranquilizers slipped into their drinks by female companions and then been robbed. There have also been past incidents of females being victimized with “date rape” drugs. Drinks should never be left unattended. Extreme caution should also be observed when drinks are prepared and served.

Occasional rough seas and strong currents have led to numerous drownings in and around Bali. Respect local warnings and consult hotel management about potential water hazards.

Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters, and in some cases, further out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Live Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the authorities of Indonesia. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia and its consulates, for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Indonesia. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into Indonesia, and must contain at least one blank page for the placement of the Indonesian visa. Travellers transiting from other points will not be permitted to board their onward flights to Indonesia without the six-month validity period. This regulation is strictly enforced and failure to comply may result in immigration authorities refusing entry into Indonesia. Officials at the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta cannot obtain entry permission for Canadians in this situation.

A 30 day tourist visa can be purchased upon arrival. However, it is recommended that Canadians obtain a visa before travelling to Indonesia. The 30 day tourist visa can be extended for a maximum of 30 days at an Immigration office in Indonesia.

Canadians travelling to Indonesia for business, social-cultural, or study purposes must be in possession of a visa prior to arrival. Business and Social-Cultural Visit single entry visas are extendable within Indonesia. A round-trip airline ticket is required to obtain all types of visas. For further information on visas, please consult the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia’s website.

Canadians travelling for business or social-cultural purposes require a letter from both the sponsoring organization in Indonesia and the sending organization. Travellers from Canada who do not hold Canadian citizenship will be required to show proof of their immigration status. Journalists visiting Indonesia for reporting and filming purposes must obtain authorization from the Director General of Immigration in Jakarta prior to applying for a visa. Aid workers are required to have a sponsor in Indonesia in order to obtain a visa. Aid workers going to Aceh require prior authorization from the Director General of Immigration in Aceh or Jakarta. Canadians are advised that Indonesia strictly enforces its immigration and visa requirements. Foreigners have been jailed for visa violations and/or overstays. Those in violation may be subject to substantial fines and/or deportation.

A fee of IDR 150,000 is required on all international departures. This fee must be paid in cash at the time of departure. Domestic departure taxes are lower and vary by airport.

Proof of yellow fever immunization is required for those arriving from infected areas.

Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Study Visa: Required
Social-Cultural Visit Visa: Required (humanitarian work, educational field trips, etc.)

A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Indonesia - JAKARTA, Embassy of Canada
Address: World Trade Centre, 6th Floor, Jl. Jend Sudirman, Kav. 29, Jakarta 12920, Indonesia.
Postal Address: P.O. Box 8324/JKS.MP, Jakarta, 12084
Tel.: 62 (21) 2550-7800
Fax: 62 (21) 2550-7811
E-Mail: jkrta@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.indonesia.gc.ca

The Consulate General of Australia in Bali can assist Canadians in an emergency (under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement). The address is as follows:

Indonesia - BALI, Consulate General of Australia
Address: Jalan Tantular No. 32, RenonDenpasar, Bali, Indonesia.
Postal Address: P.O. Box 80234, Renon Denpasar, Bali
Tel.: 62 (361) 241-118
Fax: 62 (361) 221-195 or 62 (361) 241-120 (Visa enquiries only)
E-Mail: Bali.congen@dfat.gov.au

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recommends that travellers get vaccinated against the measles, a highly contagious disease.

Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease. It is caused by a parasite which is spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. There is no vaccine available against malaria. Travellers can reduce their risk by following the Public Health Agency of Canada’s recommendations.

Avian influenza (H5N1), commonly known as “bird flu” is a viral infection that can spread easily and quickly among birds. While H5N1 commonly causes sickness in birds, it can also infect people. In 2011, there have been confirmed human cases in Indonesia. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) provides recommendations for travellers visiting areas where H5N1 is a concern.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Medical facilities throughout Indonesia are below Western standards. Medical evacuations to Australia or Singapore are often required for serious conditions. Most medical staff do not speak English or French. Doctors and hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for health services. Canadians should ensure that their insurance policy covers them for medical evacuation by air ambulance, as proper medical attention for serious injuries or illness is likely to be unobtainable in many areas and may require expensive medical evacuation.

Cases of dengue fever have been reported in some areas of Indonesia. Residents and travellers are advised to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from contracting dengue fever by using mosquito repellent (containing DEET), and avoiding swampy or low lying areas where mosquitoes are more prevalent. People experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to seek medical attention immediately.

There has been an increase in reported cases of rabies in Bali. Canadians in Bali are advised to avoid contact with animals, particularly dogs and monkeys. We strongly recommend that those planning to travel to Bali discuss the need for a rabies vaccination with their doctor prior to their departure. As the anti-rabies treatment may not be readily available in Bali, Canadians may need to travel to another location for treatment if they become infected with the virus. Travellers should seek immediate medical attention if they are bitten or scratched.

Unrestricted burning of forests in Sumatra and Kalimantan periodically causes levels of atmospheric pollution (haze) to rise to unhealthy levels, particularly from June to October. Travellers with respiratory problems should take this into account and consult with their physician prior to travelling.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Police are increasingly enforcing existing drug laws. Canadians are reminded that Indonesian laws regarding illegal drugs are very strict and include the death penalty for serious drug offences. Several foreigners are currently facing the death penalty in Bali for drug-related offences. The possession of even small amounts of illegal drugs can result in serious fines and/or prison sentences. Suspects can be detained indefinitely while police conduct investigations prior to prosecution. In August 2005, Indonesian authorities introduced random drug testing of tourists throughout the country, resulting in several arrests.

Canada does not have a Transfer of Offenders Treaty with Indonesia.Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Dual nationality is not legally recognized, which may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. Canadians should travel using their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times.

The Department publishes a booklet entitled Dual Citizenship: What You Need to Know, specifically targeted at Canadians with dual nationality.

In some areas, Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in local customs, laws, and regulations. Common sense and discretion should be exercised. Visitors should behave and dress in accordance with local practices.

Gambling is illegal in Indonesia.

Local customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation or export of items such as medications and audiovisual material. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia for specific information regarding customs requirements.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Canadians planning on renting a car should be aware that driving in Indonesia can be very challenging. Driver discipline is poor, traffic drives on the left, and streets are generally congested. Road conditions, particularly outside major centres, are substandard. Night driving in rural areas is dangerous, as most rural roads are unlit and some drivers do not use lights. Canadians who rent a car should consider hiring the services of a driver for a nominal additional fee. Helmets are required when using motorcycles. Motorcycle accidents are the main cause of death and serious injury among foreigners visiting many parts of Indonesia.

Canadians are not permitted to drive in Indonesia on a Canadian driving licence but are permitted to use an international licence, which can be purchased locally. An International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained in Canada may need to be endorsed by the Indonesian licensing office locally.

Motorcycle and scooter accidents are the leading cause of death and injury among foreigners visiting Bali.

Significant delays on arrival are being reported since the introduction, in March 2010, of a new border control management system at major airports.

The Indonesian Directorate General of Civil Aviation releases to the public the results of an operational performance assessment of Indonesian commercial airlines on a regular basis. Canadian travellers should be aware that such reports have indicated that some local airlines do not maintain their aircraft to international maintenance and safety standards. In the past several years, a number of commercial aircraft have crashed in various parts of Indonesia, often as a result of failing to meet such aviation standards. In light of these sometimes fatal crashes and substandard practices, Canadians should carefully evaluate implications for their safety before deciding to undertake domestic air travel.

Maritime accidents are common and are often caused by poor safety practices or extreme weather conditions. Travellers are advised not to board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy. Safety standards differ from those in Canada. Many remote parts of Indonesia have poor transport links, and departure from these areas may prove difficult or impossible in times of crisis.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

The currency is the rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are not widely accepted outside of major hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls. However, care should be taken as there is a very high rate of credit and debit card fraud in Indonesia. Users should pay careful attention when their cards are being handled by others during payment processing. Indonesia is known for its high rate of online credit card fraud. Visitors should ensure that their card information (number, name, expiry date) is kept private. All receipts and bills with a credit or debit card number should be either kept secure or completely destroyed. Traveller's cheques can be exchanged at banks and larger hotels. It is best to carry cash when visiting remote areas.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Indonesia is a disaster prone country suffering from a multitude of natural disasters such as earthquakes, flooding, volcanic eruptions and drought.

The Indonesian archipelago stretches across a seismically active area known as the Pacific Ring of Fire making it prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. In 2009 there were more than 200 earthquakes with a magnitude of at least five on the Richter scale. On October 25, 2010 a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck under the Indian Ocean near the Mentawai Islands off the coast of Sumatra generating a tsunami that killed hundreds of people. In December 2004, a massive tsunami struck coastal areas on the Indian Ocean, including the island of Sumatra, following an earthquake measuring 9 on the Richter scale.

Indonesia has 129 active volcanoes and on average there is at least one major volcanic event per year. Some volcanoes are on a higher alert status. The island of Java has the most volcanic activity. In 2010 mounts Sinabung, Karakatoa, Merapi and Bromo all were active enough to force evacuation of immediate surrounding areas, airport closures, and cause flight disruptions. The Indonesian Directorate of Volcanology monitors active volcanoes to ensure that residents are provided with an early warning should unusual activity occur. Alert levels can be raised and evacuations ordered on short notice. Canadians considering travelling close to active volcanoes should keep appraised of any developments and should follow the advice of local authorities, as it is possible that safe-distance restrictions may be in place.

The Lokon volcano, located in the north of Sulawesi island, erupted from July 14 to 18, 2011. Authorities have raised the alert for the volcano to the highest level and now forbid tourists from climbing it.

The rainy season extends from December to March, but heavy rains are common throughout the year. Landslides and flooding can occur with little warning, especially in remote areas where extensive deforestation is common. These incidents have led to numerous fatalities and extensive destruction of property. Travellers should monitor regional weather forecasts and follow warnings issued by local authorities. See our Global Issues page for information on typhoons and monsoons.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Teaching English in Indonesia: Canadians who are considering teaching English are encouraged to review closely employment contracts before travelling to Indonesia. Often employment contracts include a monetary penalty for early termination. The Embassy of Canada is aware of situations where English schools will hold an individual’s passport to ensure the employee complies with the terms of the contract or pays the penalty.

Commercial Disputes: The business environment in Indonesia is complex and dispute settlement mechanisms are not the same as at home. Corruption and ineffective courts are often cited as serious problems.

Internet Purchases: An increase in fraud has been observed among Canadian citizens who purchase goods via the Internet from Indonesian stores and suppliers. Canadians are advised to exercise caution before proceeding with these purchases.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.
thanks

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I pretty much agree. It is debatable, but I am leaning that way. Iran is a joke. Whenever I here fear mongering about Iran all I can think is this is the stupidest garbage..

"Is rio orange war always forfait sosh inevitable ?"
MaximB