Airport immigration experiences in Indonesia

nickelodeon Member

Member since 04 October 2022

nickelodeonMember08 January 2026 00:38:02

Hi everyone,

I’m hoping to hear from people who have personal or indirect experience with airport immigration in Indonesia.

In practice, there seem to be situations where travelers may hold more than one nationality, even though only one is officially recognized. The area that appears to create the most uncertainty is airport immigration.

In some cases, travelers are reportedly asked directly whether they hold another passport, which can lead to additional scrutiny or complications.

I’ve also heard anecdotal accounts of travelers using airport escort or assistance services that accompany passengers from the arrival gate through immigration formalities. I’m trying to understand whether this is something people have actually encountered in real life, or whether it’s mostly rumor.

I’d really appreciate hearing about personal experiences, things people have observed, or general insight into how similar situations are typically handled at Indonesian airports.

If anyone prefers not to reply publicly but is comfortable sharing general experiences or insight privately, feel free to send me a message.

Thank you in advance to anyone willing to share.

Lotus Eater ViP

Member since 26 June 2012

Lotus EaterViPYesterday 09:42:32

1893

@nickelodeon

Do check out my recent post ‘From the farcical to the sublime’ of a couple of months ago.

If you have an electronic gate enabled passport there is no reason to be processed by an immigration officer. I purchase my visa on arrival in advance which is then recognized on the egate passport check. Presumably you just enter the passport you wish to use.

First time at any airport arrival when I have not had to queue for immigration. I had 10 egates to choose from. Thought I was on candid camera ! I’m coming back into Indonesia later in the month so hopefully it will be a repeat experience including the cute girl at the Telkommsel hut at baggage claim who sorted my SIM card 😉