Indonesia is one of the largest economies in Southeast Asia. Many Japanese companies visit the country to witness its vibrant market and abundant resources firsthand. On-site business visits are an essential step for identifying business opportunities across a wide range of industries.

However, due to differences in systems, culture, and customs compared to Japan, visiting without adequate preparation may lead to unexpected troubles.

This article clearly summarizes all the necessary information for a successful business visit to Indonesia, including insights from real-life experiences. From visa applications to daily conduct during your stay, reading this guide will surely dispel any anxieties about visiting Indonesia.

Types of On-Site Business Visits

There are two main types of on-site business visits to Indonesia: “package tours” and “individual visits.” Your choice between these two will significantly affect your preparations and your experience on the ground. Let’s take a look at the characteristics of each.

Characteristics of Package Tours

Package tours are pre-arranged business visit programs provided by companies or organizations. Since experienced local coordinators support the entire itinerary, these tours are particularly reassuring for those visiting Indonesia for the first time. Most tours also include interpretation services, allowing you to focus on the visit without facing language barriers—this is one of the biggest advantages.

Although the cost tends to be higher than individual visits, these tours often include services such as arranging appointments for factory or company visits and transportation, enabling you to make the most of your time efficiently.

Characteristics of Individual Visits

Individual visits are recommended for those who wish to proceed at their own pace or minimize costs. You can freely adjust your schedule, allowing you to spend more time visiting companies or regions of particular interest.

However, to make an individual visit successful, securing a reliable local interpreter is essential. Arranging a bilingual interpreter fluent in both Indonesian and Japanese in advance will ensure smooth communication.

Additionally, when planning visits to multiple locations, it’s crucial to build a schedule with ample flexibility. In major cities like Jakarta, traffic congestion must be taken into account. If you schedule appointments too tightly—as you might in Japan—there’s a risk that you’ll only be able to complete half of them.

With adequate preparation, individual visits can be just as productive as package tours. Our company provides support for such visits, so if your company is planning an on-site visit, feel free to contact us here.

Types of Visas and How to Choose

The type of visa required for entry into Indonesia depends on the purpose of your visit. Entering the country with the wrong visa can result in serious consequences, such as being denied entry or even deportation. Therefore, it is crucial to confirm the appropriate visa type in advance.

For Tourism Purposes (Visa on Arrival / VOA / B2)

If you are visiting Indonesia for tourism purposes, it is common to obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA). This visa allows a stay of up to 30 days and can be easily obtained upon arrival at the airport. It is also possible to apply online in advance. The fee is IDR 500,000 (approximately USD 30.50*), and your passport must be valid for at least six months.
*Approximate conversion based on the rate: 1 JPY ≒ 147 IDR as of May 2025.

However, since the VOA is originally intended for tourism or leisure, its permitted activities are limited.

Permitted Activities Under the VOA:

• Tourism
• Visiting family
• Transit
• Attending meetings
• Visiting exhibitions (exhibiting is not allowed)
• Purchasing goods
• Receiving medical treatment
• Tasks assigned by the government

For Business Purposes (Factory Visits) – C2 Visa (formerly B211A Visa)

If your purpose is to visit a factory, the C2 visa is the preferred option.

As of the 2024 policy revision, factory visits are technically permitted under the VOA/B2 visa. However, in practice, immigration officers may require you to have a C2 visa depending on their judgment.

The C2 visa allows for a 60-day stay, which can be extended up to a maximum of 180 days. Since it must be applied for in advance, we recommend starting preparations at least two weeks before your scheduled departure.

To apply for a C2 visa, you will need:

• An invitation letter from an Indonesian company
• Proof of round-trip flight reservations
• A copy of your passport
• A passport-sized photo, etc.

Applications can be submitted online. However, obtaining the invitation letter may take some time, so be sure to allow for sufficient preparation.

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Advance Registration for the Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD)

One lesser-known requirement for entering Indonesia is the electronic customs declaration (e-CD).

The registration process is very simple: access the official website, enter your personal details, travel itinerary, and information about items you are bringing with you, and then obtain a QR code. This QR code must be presented to customs upon arrival, so be sure to either save a screenshot or print it out in advance.

You can register anytime from three days before your flight up until the day of entry. Items that must be declared include:

• Cash exceeding IDR 100 million (approx. USD 6,100*)
• High-value taxable goods
• Regulated items
  *Based on the exchange rate of IDR 16,500/USD as of May 2025.

At Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, QR codes linking to the e-CD site are posted along the walkway from the arrivals hall to the baggage claim area. If you haven’t registered in advance, you can scan the QR code and complete the declaration while waiting for your luggage.

Customs Precautions

Customs procedures in Indonesia are relatively strict, and decisions may vary depending on the individual officer. Certain items may be subject to high duties or, in the worst-case scenario, confiscated. To avoid trouble, please pay attention to the following points.

Prohibited Items and How to Handle Them

Indonesia prohibits the importation of:

• Narcotics and psychotropic substances
• Weapons and explosives
• Pornographic materials
• Unauthorized pharmaceuticals
• Counterfeit goods and pirated content

Also, seemingly innocent items may be restricted. For example, only up to 1 liter of alcohol is duty-free. Bringing in more could incur extremely high taxes. Keep souvenirs to a minimum.

New luxury items in boxes may be considered commercial goods. Tips:

• Open packages to show signs of use
• Separate or leave warranty cards and boxes in Japan

Updated List of Restricted Items

• Up to 200 cigarettes (or 25 cigars or 100g of cut tobacco)
• Up to 1 liter of alcoholic beverages
• Duty-free for goods valued at up to USD 500; excess is taxed (10% duty, VAT, etc.)

This applies only to goods deemed for personal use. Large quantities may be considered commercial imports.

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C2 (Participation in business meetings and purchasing goods): $230
C19 (After-sales service) / C20(Installation and repair of machinery): $300
D2 (Participation in business meetings and purchasing goods (1-year validity)): $380
E23/E24/E25 (Work VISA): $1,500

Local Travel Tips for Business Visitors

Tips for Choosing a Taxi at the Airport

The safest and most reliable option is a Blue Bird taxi. Use the official airport counter to purchase a fare voucher. A ride to central Jakarta typically costs IDR 300,000–400,000 (USD 18.20–24.30).

Do not accept rides from unofficial solicitors. Some imitation taxis may appear similar to Blue Bird—be vigilant.

Smart Use of Wi-Fi and eSIM

Local SIM cards from Telkomsel, XL, or Indosat can be purchased at the airport for IDR 150,000–200,000 (USD 9.10–12.10). Passport required.
eSIMs (Airalo, Holafly, Maya) are also convenient and can be activated before arrival.

Use a VPN for secure connections, especially when dealing with sensitive business data.

Electrical Outlets and Voltage Compatibility

Indonesia uses Type C outlets and 220V voltage. Bring a plug adapter and, if necessary, a transformer. Many modern chargers support 100–240V but check in advance.

Using Cash and Credit Cards

Main banknotes: IDR 100,000 (USD 6.10), IDR 50,000 (USD 3.00).
City exchange rates are better than at the airport.
Use VISA or Mastercard; JCB and AMEX are limited to upscale venues.
QRIS payments via Gopay, OVO, or DANA are widely accepted.

Useful Apps for Getting Around

• Grab: ride-hailing, food delivery, payments, supports Japanese
• Gojek: similar to Grab, popular among locals
• Blue Bird app: safe taxi booking

Plan with time buffers—Jakarta’s traffic is notorious.

Dress Code and Climate Considerations

While Indonesia is hot and humid, buildings are heavily air-conditioned.
Men: long sleeves, slacks, optional jacket
Women: blouse + skirt or pantsuit, plus light jacket

Avoid shorts and sandals at upscale restaurants. For visits to Islamic sites, cover shoulders and knees.

Dealing with the Time Difference

Jakarta is 2 hours behind Japan (WIB).
Other time zones:

• Bali, Sulawesi: WITA (WIB +1)
• Papua: WIT (WIB +2)

Adapt to local time quickly and avoid important meetings on the day of arrival.

Basic Phrases and Communication Tips

• “Hello”: Selamat siang
• “Thank you”: Terima kasih
• “How much?”: Berapa harganya?
• “Yes/No”: Ya / Tidak

Speaking a little Indonesian is appreciated. English may not be understood outside major cities—hire a professional interpreter for important meetings.

Security Situation and Safety Measures

Stay cautious, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Use licensed taxis.
Keep a copy of your passport, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive items, and don’t leave valuables unattended.

Enjoying Local Cuisine and Health Precautions

Try dishes like nasi goreng, sate, and gado-gado.
For hygiene:

• Eat at hotel or mall restaurants
• Avoid tap water and ice
• Be cautious with raw vegetables

Respect Muslim dietary customs (no pork/alcohol). Use your right hand when eating or passing items.

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If you have any questions or concerns after reading this article, please ask them below.
We will respond within a couple of days.

Emergency Situations: What to Do

What to Do If You Lose Your Passport

• File a report at the police station
• Apply for a travel document at the Japanese Embassy in Jakarta
  Address: 24, M.H. Thamrin Street
  Phone: +62-21-3192-4308

Travel documents are for one-way return to Japan only.

How to Access Medical Services

Recommended hospitals in Jakarta:

• Siloam Hospital (Japanese help desk)
• DYM Medical Clinic (Japanese interpreter)
• J-CLINIC (Japanese interpreter)

Bring passport, insurance card, and credit card.
Pharmacies: look for “Apotek.” Bring prescription meds from Japan.

Essential Medications to Bring

Bring digestive medicine, pain relievers, band-aids, and antiseptic.
For chronic conditions, bring a full supply and English prescription.
Stay hydrated in the humid climate.

How to Choose Overseas Travel Insurance

Credit card insurance is often limited—consider purchasing additional coverage.

Recommended coverage:

• Medical/rescue expenses: JPY 30 million (USD 180,000)
• Belongings: JPY 100,000–300,000 (USD 600–1,800)
• Liability: JPY 100 million (USD 610,000)
• Flight delays, evacuation services

Choose insurers offering 24-hour Japanese support and cashless hospital access.

Conclusion

Thorough preparation is essential for a successful business visit to Indonesia. This guide has covered everything from visa selection to on-the-ground logistics.

Key takeaways:

• Choose the correct visa
• Complete customs procedures accurately
• Plan local transportation in advance

Be mindful of food safety, security, and emergency protocols.
Indonesia offers great business opportunities—may your visit be a fruitful one.