While going off the grid in Indonesia sounds adventurous, most travelers prefer to stay connected—whether it’s for navigating unfamiliar streets, ordering a Grab or Gojek, or simply having a safety net in case of emergencies. Having internet on the go just makes things smoother.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best SIM card options for tourists in Indonesia, how to choose the right provider, and what you need to know before buying one.
Should You Choose an eSIM or a Local Indonesian SIM Card?
When it comes to staying connected in Indonesia, you have two main options: a local prepaid SIM card or an eSIM. Both have their advantages, but choosing the right one depends on your needs and especially your device.
eSIMs
eSIMs are great for travelers with compatible smartphones. You can activate them before you even land, saving you the hassle of finding a SIM card upon arrival. Providers like Telkomsel and Indosat Ooredoo offer eSIM services locally, but you’ll need to register your IMEI first, which means it won’t start working instantly.
Additionally, global eSIM options like Airalo, Revolut, and others let you buy and set up data plans ahead of time, giving you instant connectivity as soon as you touch down. However, eSIMs are usually more expensive and may not work on all devices, so check compatibility before you decide.
Local SIM Cards
Local prepaid SIM cards are typically cheaper and come with generous data packages. You can easily find them at airports, convenience stores, or official outlets. Unlike eSIMs, they require you to swap out your current SIM, but they offer reliable service and local rates, which can be a big plus if you plan to use a lot of data.
Planning to explore Indonesia by hopping from island to island? Don’t miss our latest article on Domestic Flights in Indonesia—it’ll make your journey a whole lot easier!
Major Mobile Network Providers in Indonesia
Indonesia has several mobile network providers, but four major players dominate the market:
- Telkomsel – The largest provider with the best coverage, including remote areas. If you’re traveling to smaller islands or rural regions, Telkomsel is your safest bet.
- Indosat Ooredoo – A strong competitor offering competitive pricing and solid urban coverage. Good for travelers staying in major cities.
- XL Axiata – Known for reliable service in Java, Bali, and Lombok. A great option if your itinerary focuses on these regions.
- Smartfren – Specializes in affordable 4G/LTE packages, but coverage outside cities is limited. Best for budget-conscious travelers staying in urban areas.
In my opinion, for the sake of safety and convenience, using a SIM card from Telkomsel is the best choice—especially if you plan to explore remote areas far from the city. They also offer an app where you can check your data usage and purchase additional packages.
Note: One major drawback of local providers is the constant spam via SMS with promotional messages. As a rule of thumb, I ignore all SMS and calls that aren’t from WhatsApp.
Where to Buy an Indonesian SIM Card
The easiest and most convenient place to get a SIM card in Indonesia is right at the airport. Major hubs like Soekarno-Hatta (Jakarta) and Ngurah Rai (Bali) have kiosks from providers like Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat. While prices are higher than in the city, you’ll save yourself the hassle of running around later—and most importantly, you can immediately book a Gojek or Grab from the airport. This is especially useful in places like Jakarta, where the airport Wi-Fi doesn’t reach the designated ride-hailing pickup spot.
If you prefer a more official setup, visit a GraPARI store (Telkomsel’s official outlet) or similar telco stores once you’re in the city. These stores are usually located in malls and city centers, and staff will handle the entire registration process for you, including scanning your passport, which is mandatory for foreigners.
While some convenience stores (like Indomaret and Alfamart) also sell SIM cards, the staff there may not be able to complete the passport registration, making it less ideal for tourists. Ordering online can be tricky too, as you still need to go through registration. To avoid complications, stick to airport kiosks or official stores.
IMEI Registration: Mandatory Step for Long-Term Visits
Since 2020, Indonesia requires that all mobile devices connecting to local networks have their IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) registered. This rule was introduced to reduce the circulation of illegal phones and protect consumer rights. For tourists, the process can seem confusing, but it’s actually pretty straightforward—especially if you’re just visiting for a short time.
Short Visits – No Need for IMEI Registration
If you’re on a brief vacation (less than 90 days), don’t stress about IMEI registration. You can simply buy a tourist SIM card (like the Telkomsel Tourist Card) at the airport or an official store. The staff will handle the registration for you—just have your passport and phone ready. Once registered, your phone will work seamlessly for up to 90 days, and you won’t need to worry about import duties.
After 90 days, your phone will lose mobile network access and work only on Wi-Fi. Buying a new SIM won’t help, as the ban is linked to your device’s IMEI, not the number.
Long Visits over 90 Days – Register Immediately
If your stay exceeds 90 days, register your IMEI right after landing at the customs counter in the airport. It’s free if your device costs under $500. Registering later means you might pay tax on the entire device value, so it’s best to do it on arrival.
How to Register Your IMEI:
- Before Your Trip: Go to www.beacukai.go.id to pre-register. You’ll need your passport number, flight details, and your device’s IMEI number. After registration, you’ll receive a QR code.
- Upon Arrival: Visit the Customs IMEI Registration counter before leaving the arrivals area. Show your QR code, passport, boarding pass, and device.
Backindo Tip: If you’re unsure about your IMEI number, just dial *#06# on your phone, and it will display automatically.
Final Thoughts
Staying connected while traveling in Indonesia doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you opt for a local SIM card or an eSIM, the key is to choose what best fits your travel style and duration. For short stays, a tourist SIM card bought right at the airport keeps things simple and hassle-free. For longer trips, make sure to handle your IMEI registration as soon as you land to avoid any surprises later on.
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