Indonesia Visa-Free Entry (169 Countries)

Indonesia offers short-stay visa-free facilities for tourists from 169 countries.

• Valid for 30 days

• Non-extendable and cannot be converted into another type of stay permit

• Available upon arrival at designated airports, seaports, and land borders This visa applies to various purposes, including business, tourism, and social visits.

Planning a trek? Check our Bukit Lawang Jungle Treks.

Visa-on-Arrival (VOA)

If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, apply for a Visa-on-Arrival (VOA).

• Cost: US$35

• Valid for 30 days

• Extendable once for another 30 days at Indonesian immigration offices

Long Stay Visa

Many travelers spend more than 30 days exploring Sumatra and other parts of Indonesia.

• In this case, you must apply for a longer duration visa at the Indonesian embassy in your home country or country of residence.

Passport Validity & Proof of Onward Travel

• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival.

• You must show proof of onward or return travel (tickets).

Departure & Airport Tax

• Domestic flights: Airport tax is included in the ticket price.

• International flights: Airport tax may not be included. Always check with your airline or travel agent before departure.

Overstaying Your Visa

Overstaying without proper authorization is a serious offense.

• Fine: Rp 300,000 per day

• After 60 days of overstay, you may be detained and risk imprisonment.

ATMs Near Bukit Lawang

There are two ATMs located near Bukit Lawang, both accessible by a short taxi or motorbike ride.

• Nearest ATM in Bohorok (20 minutes away):

  • Operated by Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) and Bank Mandiri

  • Dispenses Rp 50,000 and Rp 100,000 notes

  • Maximum withdrawal: Rp 2,000,000 per transaction

  • Accepts most international cards, including Mastercard (Visa cards often not accepted)

  • Transaction fees apply

• Second ATM (30 minutes away):

  • Located further 10 minutes from Bohorok

  • Sometimes out of service

If you’re planning to visit Tangkahan, you can stop at an ATM along the way to withdraw cash.

Card Payments in Bukit Lawang

• Most guesthouses now accept credit and debit card

• ATMs can be temperamental and may decline cards unexpectedly

• To avoid issues, always carry sufficient cash during your travels

If you are traveling from Medan, it’s recommended to withdraw cash at one of the many ATMs in the city or airport before heading to Bukit Lawang.

Money Changers in Indonesia

Money changers are widely available in:

• Airports

• Major cities

• Large hotels

• Shopping malls (often open 24/7)

⚠️ Tips for exchanging money:

• Airport and hotel exchange rates are usually less favorable

• Always check live exchange rates before exchanging

• Local banks often provide competitive rates

• US dollars must be in brand new condition to avoid rejection

Suggested Internal Links

• Bukit Lawang Jungle Treks – plan your trekking adventure

• Sumatra Orangutan Tours – explore Sumatra beyond Bukit Lawang