Indonesia has dozens of official entry points, but most international travelers arrive through a few key airports and ferry terminals.
These major hubs are equipped to handle immigration checks, visa processing, and customs. Here’s what you need to know about them before traveling to Indonesia.
Overview of Indonesia’s Entry Points
Visitors must pass through immigration at approved airports or seaports. At every entry point, you’ll need:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- An Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD)
- A visa (or visa-free eligibility)
- The SatuSehat Health Pass (SSHP)
These documents are required whether you arrive by air or sea.
Top International Airports in Indonesia
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta)
Located just outside Jakarta, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport CGK is Indonesia’s busiest and most important airport. It handled over 49 million passengers in 2023. It also serves as the main hub for Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air.
With three terminals and a direct airport train, it’s a convenient entry point if you’re arriving in Jakarta for your trip. Terminal 3 is the newest and handles most international flights.
Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali)
This is the airport most tourists will use if they’re heading to Bali. Located between Kuta and Jimbaran, DPS features traditional Balinese architecture and two separate terminals.
The airport is close to many resorts that Bali is famous for. This makes it a popular first stop for travelers. Capacity is limited, so the airport can get crowded, especially during high season.
Juanda International Airport (Surabaya)
Located about 12 km from downtown Surabaya, this airport is the main gateway to East Java. It’s known for its efficiency and on-time performance.
Terminal 1 serves domestic flights, while Terminal 2 handles both domestic and international routes. Juanda is perfect if you plan on exploring Java beyond Jakarta or Bali.
Kualanamu International Airport (Medan)
This modern airport in North Sumatra replaced Medan’s older Polonia Airport in 2013. With a sleek design and automated baggage system, Kualanamu is positioned as a future regional transit hub.
If you’re heading to popular destinations like Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang, consider flying here. It’s operations are growing, and it aims to handle over 22 million passengers per year by 2030.
Hang Nadim International Airport (Batam)
Batam’s main airport plays a strategic role due to its proximity to Singapore. It has the longest runway in Indonesia. It’s often used as a backup for Singapore’s Changi Airport.
If you want to cross over by ferry from Singapore and continue exploring Indonesia, this airport is perfect.
Airport Summary Table
| Airport | Location | Annual Passenger Capacity | Terminals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soekarno-Hatta (CGK) | Jakarta (Benda, Tangerang) | 49+ million (2023) | 3 terminals (+1 planned) |
| Ngurah Rai (DPS) | Bali (Tuban, near Denpasar) | Up to 25 million | 1 international, 1 domestic |
| Juanda (SUB) | Surabaya (Sidoarjo) | 16 million | T1 (domestic), T2 (int’l + domestic) |
| Kualanamu (KNO) | Medan (Deli Serdang, North Sumatra) | 22 million (by 2030 target) | 1 terminal |
| Hang Nadim (BTH) | Batam (Nongsa) | 5 million (10M under expansion) | 1 terminal |
Main International Seaports for Travelers
Batam Center Ferry Terminal (Batam)
This is the busiest passenger seaport in Indonesia. Located directly across from Singapore, it handles millions of international arrivals each year.
You can avail of the center’s immigration facilities, duty-free shops, and regular high-speed ferry service to and from Singapore’s HarbourFront and Tanah Merah terminals.
Sekupang Ferry Terminal (Batam)
Also in Batam, Sekupang is another international ferry terminal. It’s especially popular with daily commuters.
It’s slightly smaller than Batam Center but just as functional. It offers a regular ferry service to Singapore. It also offers inter-island routes within the Riau Archipelago. Facilities include immigration counters and traveler services.
Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal (Bintan)
This terminal is the main entry point to Bintan Island. This is a resort destination popular with visitors from Singapore and Malaysia.
The terminal provides immigration and customs processing and has regular ferry services to Singapore’s Tanah Merah terminal. If you’re heading to Bintan’s beach resorts, you’ll probably arrive through here.
Seaport Summary Table
| Port Name | Location | Main Connections | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batam Center Ferry Terminal | Batam, Riau Islands | Singapore, Malaysia | Largest passenger ferry terminal |
| Sekupang Ferry Terminal | Batam, Riau Islands | Singapore, Riau Islands | Commuter and tourism hub |
| Sri Bintan Pura Terminal | Tanjung Pinang, Bintan | Singapore, Malaysia | Gateway to Bintan’s resorts |
What To Expect at Ports of Entry
Once you arrive, you’ll go through the following steps:
- Immigration. You’ll need to show your passport, visa (if needed), and SSHP.
- Customs. next you’ll need to scan your e-CD QR code and declare items if required.
- Health. Finally, your SSHP may be checked, especially at airports.
Top Tip: Not all ports offer visa-on-arrival. Confirm your port’s eligibility in advance if you need one.
FAQs About Entering Indonesia
Can I get a visa on arrival at any airport or ferry terminal?
No. Only select ports like Jakarta, Bali, and Batam Center support visa-on-arrival.
Do I need both the e-CD and SSHP QR codes printed?
Yes. Immigration officers may request them, and digital copies aren’t always accepted.
Is entering Indonesia by ferry from Singapore common?
Yes. It's fast, affordable, and especially popular for business and short stays in Batam or Bintan.
You can stay up to date with important travel information regarding Indonesia but checking out the News sections of our site.
