2. ATTENTION
See our Current Issues page for information on Avian Influenza.
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to this country. (IDW7)
You are advised against non-essential travel to Indonesia, including Bali.
There is an ongoing terrorist threat to Westerners and Western interests in Indonesia. Recent reports indicate that terrorists are in the advanced stages of planning attacks against foreigners in Indonesia. These attacks could occur at any time and anywhere, including locations known to be frequented by foreigners. Possible targets could include international hotels and places where foreigners are known to gather in Jakarta and elsewhere in Indonesia. Canadians should be alert for unfamiliar vehicles parked near residences. Unattended packages should be treated with caution and reported to authorities. Bomb threats should be taken seriously.
In October 2005, a series of explosions took place at Kuta Square and at Jimbaran Bay on the resort island of Bali. Previous terrorist attacks against foreigners have occurred in Indonesia, including an explosion in front of the Australian Embassy in Jakarta in September 2004, a bombing at the Marriott Hotel in central Jakarta on August 2003, a bombing at the international airport in Jakarta in April 2003, and bombings in Bali in October 2002, all of which resulted in deaths and/or injuries.
Canadians travelling on business should evaluate carefully the implications for their security and safety before deciding to travel to Indonesia. 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.
Ongoing ethnic and religious tensions in areas of Indonesia have resulted in violence and civil unrest.Heightened security remains in place in South Sulawesi Province including Makassar. Those who choose to travel to, or remain in, the Soroako region should take all necessary steps to protect their safety and ensure they have confidence in their individual security arrangements.
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.
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. Canadians in the specified region(s) should leave. (IDW4)
You are advised against all travel to the west coast of northern Sumatra, including Aceh province and offshore islands. Canadians still in the area should leave immediately and advise the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta of their departure. Reports indicate that the potential for violence in Aceh and other parts of northern Sumatra remains a serious concern.
Humanitarian aid workers who choose to travel to Aceh despite this warning should do so only in conjunction with well established and reputable organizations. They should exercise extreme caution at all times and in all places, particularly outside of Banda Aceh, and register and remain in contact with the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta. Massive humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts are still under way in the region in response to the crisis caused by the December 2004 tsunami.
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)
a) Central and West Sulawesi — Religious tensions and conflict around Poso have increased. The situation remains tense in Palu, Poso and Tentena. b) Maluku and in particular Ambon — Tension between Christian and Muslim groups in Ambon has resulted in frequent occurrences of violence since April 2004.
c) Papua (formerly Irian Jaya) — There have been fatal clashes in central Papua. There is an active independence movement and tension between the local community and security forces is high. Permits are required for all travel to Papua, except Jayapura and Biak.
OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to this country despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.
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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY
Crime is rising at an alarming rate in Indonesia. Armed robberies are being reported daily and criminals are increasingly using weapons. Petty crime including pickpocketing and forced cash withdrawals from ATM 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 booked in advance by phone. Standards of police and legal services differ considerably from those in Canada.
Pirate attacks and armed robbery occur against ships in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Straits of Malacca, between Riau Province and Singapore, in the waters north of Sulawesi and Kalimantan, and in the waters around Flores. Indonesian waters are the most active area in the world for maritime piracy. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the Commercial Crime Services division of the International Chamber of Commerce.
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4. LOCAL TRAVEL
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. Helmets are required when using motorcycles, but this law is not strictly enforced. Motorcycle accidents are the main cause of death and serious injury among foreigners visiting Bali.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
In the past several years, a number of small commercial aircraft have crashed in remote parts of Indonesia. Maintenance standards, particularly for small regional carriers, are often below Canadian standards. Maritime accidents are also common and are often caused by poor safety practices. Many remote parts of Indonesia have poor transport links, and departure from these areas may prove difficult or impossible in times of crisis.
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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
Indonesia is located in an active seismic area. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are common. Canadians in the surroundings of any volcano should pay careful attention to all warnings issued, avoid restricted areas, and follow the advice of local authorities in the event of an eruption.
Specifically, there has been recent volcanic activity at Mount Talang in West Sumatra, Mount Anak Krakatau and Mount Tangkuban Perahu in West Java, and Indonesian authorities continue to monitor their activity. Mount Bromo, located in East Java, is currently on its second-highest alert status after activity in its crater increased in recent months. Mount Karangetang, located on the Sulawesi island chain, began spewing lava and hot ash in July, 2006. In May 2006, the alert status of the Merapi volcano on Java Island was raised to the highest level.
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. A similar event could occur in the future. A tsunami warning system has not yet been established for the Indian Ocean.
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.
Unrestricted burning of forests in Sumatra and Kalimantan periodically causes levels of atmospheric pollution 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. Such unrestricted burning may also lead to travel disruptions in affected areas.
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6. LOCAL 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.
Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.
The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.
Canada does not have a Transfer of Offenders Treaty with Indonesia.Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in some areas. Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.
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. 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
Dual nationality is not recognized. This 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.
Foreign Affairs Canada publishes a booklet, Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know, specifically targeted at Canadians with dual nationality.
Gambling is illegal in Indonesia.
Local customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation or export of items such as medications and videotapes. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (see below) for specific information regarding customs requirements.
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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
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, Indonesia
Tel.: 62 (21) 2550-7800
Fax: 62 (21) 2550-7811
E-mail: jkrta@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/asia/jakarta/
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 Hayam Wuruk, No. 88B, Tanjung Bungkak, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Postal Address: P.O. Box 3243, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Tel.: 62 (361) 283-011 or 283-241
Fax: 62 (361) 282-281
For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 008-800-105-171.
Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access numbers from Indonesia are 008-801-16 and 001-801-16, where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.
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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Indonesian authorities and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on May 18, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.
It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries 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 country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.
Foreign Affairs Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.
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 your entry into the country. 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 are powerless in their ability to assist. Travellers transiting from other points will not be permitted to board their onward flights to Indonesia without the six-month validity period. Canadians travelling on business or planning to study in Indonesia must be in possession of a visa prior to arrival. An onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds for the stay are also required.
Holders of a valid Canadian passport may obtain their tourist visa upon arrival at most major airports and seaports, but travellers should check with the nearest Indonesian embassy prior to arrival. Travellers who are entering by land must obtain a visa prior to arrival at an Indonesian embassy or consulate. The cost of a three-day visa is US$10 and a 30-day visa is US$25. Travellers should arrive with the appropriate amount in U.S. dollars. All U.S. dollar bills must have been issued after 1999 and be in good condition. Visas may be extended in exceptional circumstances only (e.g. illness, natural disaster).
Aid workers are required to have a sponsor in Indonesia in order to obtain a visa. The visa must be obtained by the sponsor at the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Agency (BRR) prior to the arrival in Indonesia. The contact number for the BRR is 0651-636666 or 0651-636123.
Journalists visiting Indonesia for reporting purposes should ensure that they obtain the appropriate visa from Indonesian authorities.
Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required
Canadians planning to work in Indonesia should ensure their employer provides them with a multiple entry/exit permit to facilitate unexpected and/or urgent departures from the country.
A fee of IDR 100,000 is required on all international departures. This fee must be paid in cash at the time of departure.
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Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.
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.
Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries 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.
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 may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.
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9. MONEY
The currency is the rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are widely accepted in major centres. 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 on-line 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 in small denominations in remote areas.
Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs 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. GENERAL INFORMATION
Indonesia (capital: Jakarta) consists of over 17,000 islands located in Southeast Asia. Tourist facilities are widely available in major areas. The official language is Bahasa Indonesia. English is not widely spoken outside major tourist areas.
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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
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 Medicine Program Web site.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) continues to monitor the global polio situation, including recent reports of human polio infection in Indonesia.
The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Current Issues on Avian Influenza.
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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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
Medical facilities throughout Indonesia are below Western standards. Medical evacuations to Australia or Singapore are often required for serious conditions. Most of the medical staff do not speak English or French. Doctors and hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for health services.
To avoid risks of mosquito-borne dengue fever, travellers should cover up and use mosquito repellent.
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13. RETURNING TO CANADA
Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.
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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, 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.
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15. TRAVEL TIPS
Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.
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16. 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.
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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION
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18. ANNEX
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