Traveling to Indonesia with a criminal record can be a complex issue. It largely depends on the nature of the offense and the specific entry requirements at the time of travel.
Read on to learn whether you’ll be able to enter Indonesia with a criminal record and if you need to declare criminal convictions on your Indonesia e-CD form.
Can Felons Go to Indonesia?
Unless your crime is recorded in the Interpol database, and you are considered a security concern, your criminal record will not prevent you from entering Indonesia.
This is because border officers are unlikely to ask about your criminal history unless you have committed a serious offense.
However, it's important to note that Indonesian authorities have the discretion to deny entry to any foreign national they deem undesirable.
If any prior offenses come to light during the entry process, you could be refused entry at the direction of the individual border officer.
Can you go to Indonesia with a DUI?
Indonesia does not explicitly prohibit entry for individuals with a DUI (driving under the influence) conviction. And a DUI is unlikely to be discovered during routine immigration procedures.
Can you visit Bali with a criminal record?
Bali shares the same immigration policies as the rest of Indonesia, so the same rules apply. Border officers are unlikely to ask about criminal history unless you have a serious past conviction.
However, as stated above, the decision to allow someone with a criminal record into Bali is at the discretion of the individual immigration officer.
Can Indonesian Immigration Detect My Past Offenses?
Indonesian immigration systems are generally not linked to international criminal databases, which means that minor offenses might not be detected during entry.
However, serious offenses, especially those involving drugs, violence or sexual crimes, could be detected and potentially lead to issues at immigration.
There have been instances where individuals with serious criminal records have been denied entry or deported upon arrival.
Should I disclose my criminal history when entering Indonesia?
Unless prompted by border officials, there’s no need to disclose criminal history of minor offenses when entering Indonesia. And it’s likely that serious offenses will be detected.
However, if asked directly by immigration officials about your criminal history, you should answer truthfully. Providing false information to immigration authorities could result in serious consequences, including denied entry or legal repercussions.
Do I Have to Declare a Criminal Record on my Indonesia e-CD form?
No, the Indonesia Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD) form does not require travelers to declare criminal convictions. The e-CD form focuses on goods being brought into the country, currency declarations, and basic travel information.
You need to provide accurate personal details, passport information, and travel plans. However, there is no specific section asking about criminal history.
Do I Have to Declare Criminal Convictions to Get an Indonesia Visa?
The visa application process for Indonesia, particularly for short-term tourist visas, such as a visa on arrival, typically does not require disclosure of criminal records.
However, for peace of mind, applying for a visa in advance through an embassy can provide greater certainty than relying on a visa on arrival. This process might involve more scrutiny but can prevent unexpected issues at the border.
We recommended contacting your nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate before traveling to clarify any concerns regarding entry with a criminal record. They can provide official guidance based on the latest regulations.
Do I Need to Get Police Clearance to Get a Long-Term Indonesia Visa?
You typically need to obtain police clearance in Indonesia for long-term stay visas, such as when relocating to the country, starting a business, or accepting employment.
This clearance is provided in the form of a certificate known as the SKCK, issued by the Indonesian national police.
The SKCK certifies that the individual has not engaged in criminal activities that could endanger the workplace, community, or broader Indonesian society.
If you’re applying from outside Indonesia, the process involves:
- Contacting your local police authority
- Requesting a recommendation certificate
- Having your fingerprints taken.
The recommendation and fingerprint documents must then be sent to the relevant authorities in Indonesia to obtain the SKCK.
If you’re already in Indonesia and need long-term stay clearance, employment, or business-related clearance, you can apply for the SKCK at your local police station.
