According to Encep Dudi Ginanjar, the Head of Public Relations and Education at Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise, all passengers entering Indonesia from abroad must complete a customs declaration form, in line with Regulation PMK Number 203/PMK.04/2017 on Passenger and Crew Luggage. To streamline the process, Indonesia has introduced the Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD) system since 2022.
“Filling out the e-CD early can reduce waiting times at the airport,” Ginanjar emphasized, as reported on the official website of the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. However, as of now, only 37% of travelers have taken advantage of this service, which has led to congestion in arrival areas.
To help foreign tourists navigate the customs process smoothly, here’s a detailed guide on Indonesia’s customs declaration requirements.
Also read: Indonesia Travel and Entry Requirements 2024: Complete Guide
The Importance of the Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD)
Every foreign visitor entering Indonesia must submit a customs declaration, whether you’re bringing goods into the country or not. The e-CD allows you to complete the declaration online up to 72 hours before your arrival. Doing this will save you significant time at the airport, especially during busy periods. It’s strongly recommended that you complete the online form before your arrival in Indonesia.
You can access the official customs declaration form through this link: E-CD Indonesia. Be aware of fraudulent sites that may try to charge you for this free service or collect your personal data.
Also read: Visa Extension Indonesia
What Happens If You Forget to Fill Out the Form?
If you arrive in Indonesia without completing the form, you will have to fill it out before leaving the airport. There are free Wi-Fi services and designated computers available near the baggage claim area where you can complete the form online.
Once you fill out the form, you’ll receive a QR code. You’ll need to show this code, along with your luggage, to customs officers before exiting the airport. The customs officers may request that your luggage be scanned, and in some cases, travelers may be asked to open their bags for further inspection.
Also read: Indonesia e-Visa: Requirements and How to Apply
IMEI Registration
If you’re staying in Indonesia for less than 90 days, you do not need to register the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) of your phone or tablet. However, if your stay exceeds 90 days, you are required to register the IMEI to ensure your device will function with local SIM cards. Failure to declare this could result in your device being restricted from using Indonesian mobile networks.
Important Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Fill Out the Form Early: Completing the e-CD within 72 hours of your arrival can make your airport experience quicker and hassle-free.
- Stick to the Official Website: Always use the official E-CD Indonesia platform to avoid scams.
- Be Honest: Declare all items truthfully to avoid fines or confiscation. If prohibited or undeclared items are found during inspection, penalties will apply.
Also read: Indonesia Travel Guide: Explore the Beautiful Archipelago
Final Customs Checks
After filling out the e-CD, you will receive a QR code that customs officers will scan before you exit the airport. If you have any items to declare, customs will assess whether additional taxes or duties apply, and they may conduct a further examination of your luggage.
By understanding Indonesia’s customs regulations and completing your e-CD early, you can avoid delays and ensure a smooth entry process. Remember, always declare items honestly and ensure you comply with all regulations.
Additionally, all foreign tourists must ensure they have the correct visa before entering Indonesia. A Visa on Arrival (VoA) is available for stays of up to 30 days. For stays longer than 30 days, be sure to apply for a tourist visa in advance to avoid complications.
If you need help with your Indonesia visa application, be sure to contact InvestInAsia. InvestInAsia is a legal service that can help you with the entire visa application process.
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Chat with an InvestInAsia representative today to get started on your visa application!
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