Surabaya Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city, welcomes international travelers through Juanda International Airport (SUB), one of the country's busiest aviation hubs. Entry requirements for Surabaya follow Indonesia's national immigration policies, which vary based on nationality and purpose of visit. Indonesia offers visa-free entry, visa on arrival (VOA), and electronic visa options for eligible nationalities, making it relatively accessible for most international tourists and business travelers. The immigration process at Juanda International Airport is generally straightforward, with modern facilities and English-speaking immigration officers. Travelers should expect standard immigration procedures including passport control, customs declaration, and baggage screening. Processing times can vary depending on flight arrivals, with peak periods experiencing longer queues. It's recommended to have all required documentation readily accessible and to allow sufficient time for immigration and customs clearance. Before traveling to Surabaya, visitors should ensure their passport has at least six months validity from the date of entry, confirm their visa requirements based on nationality and length of stay, and familiarize themselves with Indonesia's customs regulations. Understanding these requirements in advance will help ensure a smooth entry process and avoid potential delays or complications at the border.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Indonesia's visa policy for Surabaya offers multiple entry options depending on nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay. The country provides visa-free entry for short stays from many nations, visa on arrival for eligible countries, and electronic visa options for longer visits.

Visa-Free Entry

30 days (non-extendable)

Citizens of eligible countries can enter Indonesia without a visa for tourism purposes

Includes

ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) Chile Ecuador Hong Kong SAR Macau SAR Morocco Peru Vietnam

Visa-free entry is strictly for tourism purposes only and cannot be extended. Travelers must have a return or onward ticket and passport valid for at least 6 months. This option does not permit working or business activities.

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

30 days (extendable once for additional 30 days)

Available for citizens of over 90 countries for tourism and limited business purposes

Includes

United States United Kingdom Australia Canada Most EU countries (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, etc.) New Zealand Japan South Korea China India Russia South Africa Brazil Argentina Mexico

How to Apply: VOA can be obtained upon arrival at Juanda International Airport. Payment is made at designated counters before immigration. Processing typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on queues. Cash (IDR or major foreign currencies) and credit cards are usually accepted.
Cost: 500,000 IDR (approximately 32 USD)

VOA can be extended once for an additional 30 days through the local immigration office in Surabaya. Extension requires visiting the immigration office before the initial 30 days expire and costs approximately 500,000 IDR. Ensure you have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.

Electronic Visa (e-VOA)

30 days (extendable once for additional 30 days)

Online visa application available for eligible countries, allowing pre-approval before travel

How to Apply: Apply online through Indonesia's official e-VOA portal (https://molina.imigrasi.go.id) at least 3-7 days before departure. Upload required documents including passport copy, photo, and proof of accommodation. Approval is typically granted within 2-3 business days.
Cost: 500,000 IDR (approximately 32 USD) plus processing fees

e-VOA offers the same benefits as VOA but allows travelers to skip the visa counter at the airport, proceeding directly to immigration. This can save significant time during busy periods. The e-VOA approval must be printed and presented upon arrival.

Visit Visa (B211A)

60 days initially (extendable up to 4 times for 60 days each, total possible stay 180 days)

For longer stays or purposes not covered by VOA, including business, social visits, or tourism exceeding 60 days

How to Apply: Must be arranged through an Indonesian sponsor (company, individual, or visa agency) before travel. The sponsor applies to the immigration office in Indonesia, and upon approval, the applicant receives a visa approval letter to present at the Indonesian embassy/consulate or upon arrival. Processing takes 5-14 days.

This visa type requires a sponsor in Indonesia and is suitable for those planning extended stays, conducting business activities, or visiting family. Each extension must be processed through the local immigration office and costs approximately 500,000-1,000,000 IDR per extension.

Visa Required (Embassy Application)

Varies by visa type

Nationals not eligible for visa-free entry or VOA must obtain a visa from an Indonesian embassy or consulate before travel

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Submit application form, passport photos, passport copy, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and financial statements. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days.

This applies to citizens of countries not on the visa-free or VOA list, including several African and Middle Eastern nations. Contact the Indonesian embassy well in advance of travel to confirm requirements and processing times.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Juanda International Airport in Surabaya, travelers will proceed through immigration, collect baggage, and clear customs. The process is similar to most international airports but understanding the steps can help ensure smooth entry.

Health Screening (if applicable)

Depending on current health regulations, travelers may undergo temperature checks or health screenings immediately upon disembarking. Follow staff instructions and have any required health documents ready.

Visa on Arrival Counter (if applicable)

If you require a VOA and haven't obtained an e-VOA, proceed to the clearly marked VOA payment counter before immigration. Present your passport, pay the fee (500,000 IDR), and receive your VOA stamp or receipt. This must be completed before proceeding to immigration.

Immigration Control

Join the appropriate queue (Indonesian citizens or foreign nationals). Present your passport, completed arrival card (usually distributed on the flight), return/onward ticket, and any visa documentation. The immigration officer will verify your documents, may ask questions about your visit, take your photograph and fingerprints, and stamp your passport with entry permission.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to the baggage claim area and collect your luggage from the designated carousel. Check flight information screens to confirm your carousel number. Report any missing or damaged luggage to the airline's baggage service counter immediately.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if you have goods to declare or exceed duty-free allowances. Choose the appropriate customs channel: 'Nothing to Declare' (green) or 'Goods to Declare' (red). Customs officers may conduct random baggage inspections regardless of channel.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, proceed to the arrivals hall where you can access transportation, currency exchange, SIM card vendors, and meet greeters. Official taxi counters and ride-sharing pickup points are clearly marked.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry into Indonesia. Should have at least 2 blank pages for stamps. Damaged passports may be rejected.

Visa Documentation

Depending on nationality: e-VOA approval letter (printed), VOA payment receipt, or pre-arranged visa. Keep these easily accessible.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Indonesia within your permitted stay period. This can be a flight, ferry, or cruise ticket. Immigration officers frequently request this and may deny entry without it.

Arrival Card

Customs and immigration arrival form, usually distributed during the flight. Complete all sections legibly in English or Indonesian. Keep the departure portion safe as you may need it when leaving.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, hostel booking confirmation, or invitation letter from Indonesian host. While not always checked, having this available can expedite the process if questioned.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your stay (credit cards, cash, bank statements). Rarely requested but good to have available, especially for longer stays.

Health Documents

Vaccination certificates if required (yellow fever if arriving from endemic countries), health insurance documentation, and any current health-related entry requirements (check before travel).

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching immigration. Use a document folder or clear plastic sleeve to keep passport, visa documents, arrival card, and tickets together.

Fill out your arrival card completely and accurately during the flight to save time. Use block letters and ensure information matches your passport exactly.

Dress appropriately and be polite with immigration officers. Indonesia values respectful behavior, and a courteous attitude can make the process smoother.

Keep copies (digital and physical) of important documents including passport, visa, tickets, and insurance. Store digital copies in cloud storage or email them to yourself.

Have small denomination USD or IDR cash available for VOA payment if needed. While credit cards are often accepted, cash is more reliable. ATMs are available in the arrivals hall.

Download offline maps and translation apps before arrival. Having your accommodation address in Indonesian can be helpful for immigration questions and taxi drivers.

If traveling during peak hours (early morning or late evening when multiple international flights arrive), expect longer queues. Consider e-VOA to skip the visa payment counter.

Take note of your visa expiry date immediately after entry. Set a reminder if you need to extend or ensure you depart before expiration to avoid overstay penalties.

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate needs (transportation, SIM card), but get better rates at city exchange offices or ATMs.

Customs & Duty-Free

Indonesia's customs regulations apply to all entry points including Surabaya. Travelers must declare items exceeding duty-free allowances and are subject to baggage inspection. Understanding customs rules helps avoid penalties, delays, and confiscation of prohibited items.

Alcohol

1 liter of alcoholic beverages

Only for travelers aged 21 and above. Indonesia is a Muslim-majority country with strict alcohol regulations. Excessive amounts may be confiscated or subject to high duties.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 100 grams of tobacco products

Only for travelers aged 18 and above. E-cigarettes and vaping devices have special regulations and may be restricted or require declaration.

Currency

Up to 100,000,000 IDR (Indonesian Rupiah) or equivalent in foreign currency without declaration

Amounts exceeding this threshold must be declared on arrival using the customs declaration form. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and penalties. There is no limit on the amount you can bring if properly declared.

Gifts and Personal Goods

Goods with total value up to 500 USD per adult traveler (250 USD for children)

Items for personal use during your stay are generally exempt. New items, especially electronics in original packaging, may be questioned. Keep receipts for valuable items.

Perfume

Reasonable amount for personal use (typically interpreted as 1-2 bottles)

Commercial quantities will be subject to duty and may require import permits.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Indonesia has extremely strict drug laws with severe penalties including death penalty
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives - unless with special permit from Indonesian authorities
Pornographic materials - including magazines, videos, and digital content deemed obscene
Printed materials or media in Chinese characters - with some exceptions for educational/religious purposes
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants - without proper agricultural permits and phytosanitary certificates
Live animals and animal products - without veterinary health certificates and import permits
Counterfeit goods - including fake designer items, pirated software, and copied media
Transmitting devices - walkie-talkies, radio transmitters without proper licensing
Laser pointers - particularly high-powered ones
Certain medications - especially those containing narcotics or psychotropic substances without prescription and approval

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring only necessary amounts with original packaging, prescription letter from doctor, and medical certificate. Medications containing controlled substances require prior approval from Indonesian health authorities
Drones and aerial photography equipment - require permits from multiple Indonesian agencies. Register with authorities before bringing professional equipment
Professional camera and video equipment - may require temporary import permits if value exceeds personal use threshold or for commercial purposes
Satellite phones - require special permits from telecommunications authorities
Meat and dairy products - require veterinary health certificates and import permits from agricultural authorities
Traditional medicines and supplements - must comply with Indonesian food and drug regulations, may require testing and certification
E-cigarettes and vaping devices - regulations change frequently; currently subject to restrictions and may require special permits or be prohibited in certain regions

Health Requirements

Health requirements for entering Indonesia through Surabaya vary based on your country of origin and current global health situations. While Indonesia has relaxed many COVID-19 restrictions, certain vaccination requirements remain for travelers from specific regions.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required for travelers aged 9 months and above arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Certificate must be presented at immigration. This includes travelers who have transited for more than 12 hours through airports of countries with yellow fever risk.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to food and water risks
Typhoid - Recommended for most travelers, especially those visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Japanese Encephalitis - Recommended for travelers spending extended time in rural areas or during rainy season
Rabies - Recommended for adventure travelers, those working with animals, or visiting remote areas
Routine vaccinations - Ensure you're up to date on MMR (measles-mumps-rubella), DPT (diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus), polio, and seasonal influenza
Malaria prophylaxis - While Surabaya city is not a malaria risk area, consult a travel medicine specialist if visiting rural East Java

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended for all visitors to Indonesia. Medical facilities in Surabaya range from basic to excellent international standard hospitals, but quality care can be expensive. Ensure your insurance covers medical evacuation, as serious conditions may require transfer to Singapore or your home country. Many hospitals require proof of insurance or upfront payment before treatment. Keep your insurance documents and emergency contact numbers easily accessible.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly based on global health situations. As of late 2024, most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but verify current requirements before travel. Check the Indonesian Ministry of Health website, your country's travel advisory, and airline requirements. Some requirements to monitor include: COVID-19 vaccination certificates (requirements vary by country of origin), pre-departure testing, health declaration forms, and quarantine requirements. Download Indonesia's health apps if required (such as PeduliLindungi during COVID-19 period). Consult a travel medicine specialist 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized health advice.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Indonesian Immigration

Directorate General of Immigration - Official website for visa information and applications

Website: imigrasi.go.id | Email: info@imigrasi.go.id | Surabaya Immigration Office: Jl. S. Parman No.58-60, Surabaya | Phone: +62 31 5678437

Your Country's Embassy/Consulate

Contact your nation's diplomatic mission in Indonesia for consular assistance

Most embassies are in Jakarta, but some countries have consulates in Surabaya. Register with your embassy before travel for emergency notifications. Check your government's travel advisory website for current warnings and information.

Emergency Services

Emergency contact numbers in Surabaya

Juanda International Airport

Airport information and assistance

Phone: +62 31 2986800 | Website: juandaairport.com | Located approximately 20km south of Surabaya city center

Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

For visa and immigration policy information

Website: kemlu.go.id | Visa information: visa-online.imigrasi.go.id

Tourism Indonesia

Official tourism information and assistance

Website: indonesia.travel | East Java Tourism Office: +62 31 5343837

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (family passports are not accepted). Minors under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized parental consent letter signed by the absent parent(s), including contact information and copies of the parent's passport/ID. If the child has a different surname from the accompanying parent, bring a birth certificate or legal guardianship documents. Single parents should carry the child's birth certificate. Children are subject to the same visa requirements as adults but may have reduced duty-free allowances (250 USD vs 500 USD for adults). Unaccompanied minors require special arrangements with the airline and must be met by a designated adult with proper identification.

Traveling with Pets

Indonesia has strict pet import regulations. Required documents include: valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before arrival), health certificate from licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of departure, import permit from Indonesian Agricultural Quarantine Agency (obtained before travel), microchip identification meeting ISO standards. Pets must enter through designated ports (Juanda Airport accepts pets). Upon arrival, pets undergo quarantine inspection and may be quarantined for up to 14 days depending on country of origin and documentation. Some breeds are restricted or prohibited. Contact the Indonesian Agricultural Quarantine Agency well in advance (minimum 30 days) to begin the application process. Costs include permit fees, quarantine fees, and inspection fees. Airlines have specific pet travel requirements - book early as spaces are limited.

Extended Stays and Visa Extensions

Tourist visas (VOA and e-VOA) can be extended once for an additional 30 days, giving a maximum 60-day stay. To extend, visit the Surabaya Immigration Office (Kantor Imigrasi Kelas I Khusus TPI Surabaya) at Jl. S. Parman No.58-60 before your initial visa expires. Bring your passport, copy of passport and entry stamp, proof of accommodation, passport photos, extension fee (approximately 500,000 IDR), and completed application form. Processing takes 3-7 working days; you may need to surrender your passport during this time. For stays exceeding 60 days, you must obtain a B211A Visit Visa before arrival, which allows extensions up to 180 days total. This requires an Indonesian sponsor. For long-term stays (work, study, retirement), different visa categories apply and must be arranged before arrival. Overstaying your visa results in fines (1,000,000 IDR per day), detention, deportation, and possible ban from re-entering Indonesia.

Business Travelers

Business visitors conducting meetings, negotiations, or attending conferences can use Visa on Arrival (VOA) or e-VOA for short trips up to 60 days. For actual work activities, employment, or extended business stays, a Business Visa (B211A) or Work Permit (KITAS) is required. Business visa requires sponsorship from an Indonesian company and allows extensions. Bring business invitation letter, company registration documents, and detailed itinerary. Note that VOA does not permit paid work or employment - only business meetings and networking. If attending conferences or trade shows, bring registration confirmation and event details. Some business travelers may need to register with local authorities depending on activities and duration.

Students and Education

Students planning to study in Indonesia must obtain a Student Visa (KITAS for students) before arrival. This requires sponsorship from the Indonesian educational institution. Tourist visas cannot be converted to student visas within Indonesia. Required documents include acceptance letter from Indonesian school/university, proof of financial support, academic transcripts, and health certificates. The educational institution typically assists with the application process. Student visas are issued for the duration of the study program and require regular reporting to immigration authorities.

Dual Nationals and Indonesian Citizens

Indonesia does not recognize dual citizenship for adults. Indonesian citizens must enter and exit Indonesia using their Indonesian passport, regardless of other nationalities held. Former Indonesian citizens or those with Indonesian heritage should consult the Indonesian embassy about their status before travel. Children born abroad to Indonesian parents may have temporary dual citizenship until age 18-21, after which they must choose one nationality. Entry requirements differ for Indonesian citizens, including different immigration queues and documentation.

Travelers with Disabilities

Juanda International Airport has facilities for travelers with disabilities including wheelchair accessibility, accessible restrooms, and assistance services. Request special assistance from your airline at least 48 hours before departure. Immigration and customs can provide priority processing for travelers with mobility issues. Bring sufficient medication for your stay plus extra, with prescriptions and doctor's letters. Medical equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, CPAP machines) is generally exempt from customs duties but should be declared. Surabaya's accessibility varies - major hotels and malls are generally accessible, but many areas have limited facilities. Consider travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions and medical equipment.