Indonesia Register Travel insurance Destinations

Last updated: ET

Still valid: ET

Latest updates: Editorial change


Print format
Risk level(s)

Risk level(s)

Indonesia - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia due to political and social tensions and the threat of terrorism throughout the country.

Papua - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the province of Papua due to the regular occurrence of violent incidents.

Safety and security situation

Safety and security

Safety and security

Papua (see Advisory)

There has been ongoing political tension and regular violent occurrences since October 2011. In some cases, foreigners and foreign businesses have been targeted by local militants.

There is a heightened police and military presence in Papua. Labour disputes at the Freeport-McMoRan mine near Timika have led to demonstrations, transportation disruptions and violence. Fatal attacks have occurred on roads near the mine.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Indonesia. While effective counterterrorism measures by Indonesian authorities are in place, terrorist cells are active and have the capacity to carry out attacks anywhere in the country.

In May 2018, bomb attacks occurred in three churches and one police station in Surabaya (Indonesia’s second largest city). The explosions caused many casualties.

Further attacks are likely and could take place anywhere in the country. Targets could include:

  • government buildings, including schools
  • police and military installations and personnel
  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels, and other sites frequented by foreigners.

Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, including metal detectors, guards and security cameras. Keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk.

Be particularly vigilant during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

  • Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places and identify ways to leave the area in case of emergency
  • Monitor local media
  • Follow the instructions of the local authorities

Crime

Armed robberies occur regularly. Petty crime, including pickpocketing, bag snatching and forced cash withdrawals from ATMs, is a serious concern. There is a high risk of street crime, pick-pocketing and bag-snatching in tourist areas, such as Bali and Lombok, and foreign tourists are targeted. Tourists travelling alone, women and those travelling at night are at particular risk.

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. 

Merchants do not always honour pricing agreements. Use good judgment in engaging services of tourist guides, especially in places that tourists rarely visit.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Sporadic ethnic and religious tensions may lead to violence and civil unrest.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Political and social tension

There are long-standing sectarian and social tensions throughout Indonesia, particularly in the provinces of Central Sulawesi (especially in Palu, Poso and Tentena), Maluku (especially in Ambon) and West Papua.

Sectarian violence targeting civilians has occurred. While there are ongoing security operations by Indonesian authorities, the potential for violence remains. Exercise a high degree of personal security awareness at all times, maintain a heightened level of vigilance and be aware of your surroundings.

Kidnapping

Foreigners have been kidnapped and killed in the past, particularly in the province of Aceh. Avoid travelling alone and travelling at night throughout Indonesia.

East and West Kalimantan

The Philippines-based Abu Sayyaf terrorist group has kidnapped tourists from Sabah, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Abu Sayyaf has not extended its activities into neighbouring coastal areas of Indonesia, including East Kalimantan, but may be capable of doing so.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. People have died after consuming drinks contaminated with methanol. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Fraud

There is a very high rate of credit and debit card fraud in Indonesia, including online fraud. Keep your card information (number, name, expiry date) private. Keep all receipts and bills bearing a credit or debit card number secure or destroy them completely.

 Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

  • pay careful attention when your card is handled by others
  • use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
  • avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
  • cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
  • check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

More about overseas fraud

Road safety

Many remote parts of Indonesia have poor transportation networks. It may be difficult or impossible to leave these areas in a crisis.

Road conditions, particularly outside major centres, are poor. Road travel in Indonesia can be very challenging, as drivers are not disciplined and do not consistently obey traffic rules. Streets are generally congested. Driving at night in rural areas is dangerous, as most rural roads are unlit and some drivers do not use lights. If you plan to rent a car, consider hiring a driver.

Be particularly cautious on the road from Banda Aceh to Medan, where armed robberies have occurred. There is a possibility of mob anger if an accident has caused serious injury. In such cases, remain in your vehicle and drive to the nearest police station to report the accident.

Motorcycle and scooter accidents are the main cause of death and serious injury among foreigners visiting many parts of Indonesia, including Bali. Be aware of scams involving motorcycles rentals. Rental motorcycles are targeted and stolen and the renters are left to pay the replacement cost for a new motorcycle.

Public transportation

Transport by bus and rail can be crowded and safety standards are poor.

Maritime transportation

Avoid travelling by ferry. Maritime accidents are common and are often caused by poor safety practices or extreme weather conditions. Do not board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy. If you choose to travel by ferry, ensure that the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment, that life jackets are provided for all passengers and that they are accessible at all times. Verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information about foreign domestic airlines

Swimming

Rough seas and strong currents have led to drownings. Respect local warnings and consult hotel management about potential water hazards.

Piracy

Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre

General safety information

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Exercise caution at all times and in all places.

Entry/exit requirements

Entry/exit requirements

Novel coronavirus

In an attempt to limit the spread of a novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which originated in China, some governments have implemented special entry restrictions for their territory. Before travelling, verify if your destination’s local authorities have implemented any specific entry and exit restrictions related to this situation.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Outbreak update – Public Health Agency of Canada

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Indonesian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada.

Airlines may deny entry to foreign nationals if they are not in possession of a return ticket or the correct visa. Confirm requirements with your airline prior to travel.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the date of entry into Indonesia and must contain at least one blank page for the placement of the Indonesian visa or entry stamp.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.

Useful links

Visas

Free visit (stays under 30 days): Not required

Tourist visa (stays of 30 to 60 days): Required

Business visa: Required

Social-cultural visit visa: Required (e.g. for humanitarian work, educational field trips)

Limited stay visa (see below): Required

Free visit

You do not need a visa if you are planning to stay in Indonesia for less than 30 days and are travelling for one of the following purposes:

  • tourism
  • family
  • social
  • art and culture
  • government visit
  • giving a lecture or attending a seminar
  • attending a meeting held by a head office or representative office in Indonesia
  • attending an international exhibition

Tourist visa

If you are travelling for tourism with a regular Canadian passport and plan on staying in Indonesia from 30 days to 60 days, you may obtain a visa in advance or on arrival at select points of entry. You may need to show a return or onward ticket.

Business and social-cultural visas

Canadians travelling to Indonesia for business or social-cultural purposes (e.g volunteer work) must be in possession of a visa prior to arrival. A business and social-cultural visit, single-entry visa is extendable from within Indonesia. A round-trip airline ticket is required to obtain all types of visas.

Canadians travelling for business or social-cultural purposes require a letter from both the sponsoring organization in Indonesia and the sending organization.

More information on visas - Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia

Limited stay visa

A limited stay visa can be issued to Canadians travelling to Indonesia for any of the following reasons:

  • work (regardless of the length of stay)
  • study (regardless of the length of stay)
    • installation of equipment (regardless of the length of stay)
    • internship
    • performing art (more than 60 days)
    • competitive sports (3 months or more)
    • volunteer program (6 months or more)
    • scientific research (regardless of the length of stay)
    • media, journalism or film making (regardless of the length of stay)
    • join immediate family members that are working in Indonesia for 6 months or more

Journalists and aid workers

Journalists visiting Indonesia for reporting and filming purposes must obtain authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Jakarta before 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 Directorate General of Immigration in Aceh or Jakarta.

Canadians who travel to Indonesia for an extended stay must have their visa converted into a permit at the nearest immigration office upon arrival in Indonesia.

Indonesia strictly enforces its immigration and visa requirements. Foreigners have been detained in immigration detention centres for visa violations or overstays. Those in violation may be subject to substantial fines and deportation.

Restricted areas

You must obtain a permit to travel to Papua. Entry regulations and permission to remain in Papua may change at any time.

Departure fee

You must pay a fee, in cash, on all international and domestic airport departures. Fees vary by airport, and domestic departure fees are lower. Verify the applicable fee with immigration officials, airport authorities or your travel service provider.

Children and travel

Learn about travel with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Health

Related Travel Health Notices
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before you travel.
Vaccines

Routine Vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Vaccines to Consider

You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.

Influenza

Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.

Japanese encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is low for most travellers. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to mosquito bites (e.g., spending a large amount of time outdoors) while travelling in regions with risk of Japanese encephalitis.

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Polio *Proof of vaccination*

Polio is present in this country. Polio can be prevented by vaccination, which is part of the routine vaccines for children in Canada.

Recommendation:

  • Be sure that your vaccination against polio is up to date.
  • One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult.  

Proof of vaccination:

If you are staying more than 4 weeks in this country, you may need to show proof of polio vaccination when you leave the country.

Make sure that the polio vaccination is documented on the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis. This is the only document accepted as proof of vaccination.In Canada, they are provided at Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres.

Carry the certificate as proof of vaccination.

Rabies

Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).

Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

Risk

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.
  • Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
  • There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. It is important for travellers to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of their trip to ensure that the vaccine is available.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Food/Water

Food and Water-borne Diseases

Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.

In some areas in Southeast Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Southeast Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!

Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis can be spread to humans through freshwater sources contaminated by blood flukes (tiny worms). The eggs of the worms can cause stomach illnesses like diarrhea and cramps or urinary problems. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Avoid swimming in freshwater sources (lakes, rivers, ponds). There is no vaccine available for schistosomiasis.

Travellers' diarrhea
  • Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
  • Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
  • The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.


Insects

Insects and Illness

In some areas of Southeastern Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria and Zika virus.

Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.

Chikungunya

There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Dengue
  • In this country, dengue fever is a risk to travellers year-round.  It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue fever can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue fever changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. After a decline in reported dengue cases worldwide in 2017 and 2018, global numbers have been steeply rising again.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Lymphatic filariasis

Lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, is caused by filariae (tiny worms) spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause a range of illnesses. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine available for lymphatic filariasis although drug treatments exist.

Zika Virus

Zika virus is a risk in this country.

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

Pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy should visit a health care professional before travelling to discuss the potential risks of travelling to this country. Pregnant women may choose to avoid or postpone travel to this country.

Travel recommendations:

  • Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
  • If you are pregnant, always use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact with anyone who has travelled to this country for the duration of your pregnancy.
  • Women: Wait 2 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy. If your male partner travelled with you, wait 3 months after travel or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer).
  • Men: Wait 3 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy.

For more travel recommendations, see the travel health notice: Zika virus: Advice for travellers


Malaria

Malaria

  • There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country.
  • Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
  • Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. See a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss your options.

Animals

Animals and Illness

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in some areas in Southeastern Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.

Avian Influenza

There have been human cases of avian influenza in this country.

Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds. In rare cases, it can infect people.

Protect yourself: 

  • avoid high risk areas such as poultry farms and live animal markets
  • avoid areas where poultry may be slaughtered
  • avoid contact with birds (alive or dead)
  • avoid surfaces that may have bird droppings or secretions on them
  • ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs, are well cooked

Person-to-Person

Person-to-Person Infections

Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.


Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities throughout Indonesia are below Western standards. Most medical staff do not speak English or French. Doctors and hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for health services.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury. Make sure you have travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

Laws & culture

You are subject to local laws.

Learn about the criminal law system in Indonesia and what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Canada does not have a Transfer of Offenders Treaty with Indonesia.

Illegal and restricted activities

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are very severe and include the death penalty for serious drug offences. Suspects can be detained for prolonged periods, without the possibility of release on bail, while police conduct investigations prior to prosecution. Random drug testing of tourists throughout the country has resulted in several arrests.

Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legally available in Canada, such as those containing morphine and codeine, are classified as controlled substances in Indonesia. It’s illegal to bring them into the country, even in small quantities, without prior permission from the Indonesian Ministry of Health and the required documentation. If you attempt to bring banned pharmaceuticals into Indonesia without these, Indonesian authorities may confiscate them. You may also be subject to fines and imprisonment.

Gambling is illegal.

Local customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation or export of items such as audiovisual material.

Contact the Embassy of Indonesia in Ottawa for more information on controlled substances and customs requirements.

Sharia law

Religious police enforce sharia (Islamic law) in Aceh. Specific applications of sharia may differ by region and may apply to non-Muslims as well. Inform yourself of the relevant provisions specifically related to the region, regardless of your religion.

Identification

Carry adequate identification, such as a passport and your stay permit, at all times. You may be detained and fined if you don’t have the original on you. Keep copies, in case it is lost or confiscated.

Driving

Traffic drives on the left.

In the event of an accident, drivers must stop and exchange information and assistance.

Motorcycle drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets.

Canadians can’t drive in Indonesia with a Canadian driver’s licence but may purchase an International Driving Permit locally. Check with a local Indonesian licensing office if they need to endorse an International Driving Permit obtained in Canada.

Information on International Driving Permits

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Indonesia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Indonesia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

Indonesia allows minors to carry dual citizenship until the age of 18. After this time, they must choose between their Indonesian citizenship and foreign citizenship.

Culture

In some areas, Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in local customs, laws and regulations.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

  • dress conservatively
  • behave discreetly
  • respect religious and social traditions

During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. In 2020, Ramadan is expected to begin on or around April 23.

LGBTQ2 travellers

In some provinces, sexual acts between individuals of the same sex are prohibited and punishable. Individuals can be arrested under laws related to what is considered immoral behaviour, prostitution or social ills.

In Aceh, Sharia law is enforced and sexual acts between Muslim individuals of the same sex is punished by caning. Even in provinces that don’t prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality is not socially tolerated.

LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Indonesia.

General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad

Money

The currency is the rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are not widely accepted outside of large urban centres and tourist areas.

Traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at banks and larger hotels.

Carry cash when visiting remote areas.

Natural disasters and climate

Natural disasters & climate

Indonesia is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to a multitude of natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, volcanic eruptions and drought.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Each year, Indonesia experiences thousands of earthquakes of varying magnitudes, some triggering tsunamis. Deaths, injuries and significant damage occasionally occur.

Volcanic activity

Indonesia has 129 active volcanoes and periodically experiences major volcanic events. 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. Volcanic events can be dangerous, even life-threatening. Ash clouds can disrupt air travel, including on the island of Bali, and cause or worsen respiratory problems.

Keep up to date with any developments if you are travelling close to active volcanoes and follow the instructions of local authorities. Take official warnings seriously and respect exclusion zones. Consult the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and National Disaster Management Authority for a list of volcanoes with elevated risk levels.

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from November to March, but heavy rains are common throughout the year. Flooding and landslides can occur with little warning, especially in remote areas where extensive deforestation is common, but also in major cities, including Jakarta. Such incidents have led to fatalities and destruction of property.

  • Be aware of health risks associated with flood waters
  • Keep informed of regional weather forecasts as well as road closures or detours
  • Avoid disaster areas
  • Follow the advice of local authorities

More about hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons

Atmospheric pollution

Unrestricted burning in Sumatra and Kalimantan periodically causes atmospheric pollution (haze) to rise to unhealthy levels, especially from June to October. Monitor levels closely, as they change quickly.

Assistance

Assistance

Local services

Emergency services

In case of emergency, dial 110 for police.

Research and carry contact information for local medical facilities.

Consular assistance

Jakarta - Embassy of Canada
Street AddressWorld Trade Centre I, 6th Floor, Jl. Jend Sudirman, Kav. 29, Jakarta 12920, IndonesiaPostal AddressP.O. Box 8324/JKS.MP, Jakarta, 12084 IndonesiaTelephone62 21 2550 7800Fax62 21 2550 7811Emailjkrta.consular@international.gc.caInternetwww.indonesia.gc.caServicesPassport Services AvailableFacebookEmbassy of Canada to Indonesia, Timor-Leste and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)Twitter@CanEmbIndonesia
Bali - Consulate General of Australia
Street AddressJalan Tantular No. 32, Renon, Denpasar, Bali, IndonesiaPostal AddressP.O. Box 3243, Renon, Denpasar, Bali, IndonesiaTelephone62 361 241 118Fax62 361 221 195Emailbali.congen@dfat.gov.auInternetwww.bali.indonesia.embassy.gov.au/blli/home.html

The Australian Consulate-General in Bali can assist Canadians in an emergency, under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.


The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services.

Date modified: