How Does SIM Card & Internet Work in Indonesia?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Telkomsel has the best nationwide coverage; Indosat Ooredoo (IM3) offers good value; buy at airports or malls with your passport; Airalo eSIM works well.
2What You Need to Know
Indonesia's major carriers are Telkomsel (best coverage including remote areas), Indosat Ooredoo (IM3, good value data packages), XL Axiata, and Smartfren. SIM cards are cheap and data packages are very affordable — expect to pay around 50,000–100,000 IDR for a SIM with generous data. All purchases require passport registration, which is done at the point of sale. Buy at airports (more expensive but convenient), official carrier stores in malls, or convenience stores. eSIMs from providers like Airalo work well in Indonesia and avoid the registration process. Coverage can be patchy on outer islands and in highland areas.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Buy a Telkomsel SIM at the airport on arrival if you want reliable coverage everywhere — it costs more than in town but saves hassle
- 2Indosat IM3 offers the best value data packages if you are staying in Bali, Java, or other main islands where coverage is strong
- 3If you prefer not to deal with SIM registration, purchase an Airalo Indonesia eSIM before you depart — it activates on landing
Important Warning
SIM card registration requires your passport — the seller will scan it. This is mandatory under Indonesian government regulations. Unregistered SIMs will be blocked.
How does this compare?
SIM Card & Internet rules in nearby and similar countries:
Buy a tourist SIM or eSIM at the airport on arrival — data coverage is excellent nationwide.
Tourist SIMs from AIS or TrueMove cost 299–499 baht at the airport and give you 15–30 days of data with excellent coverage in cities and resort areas.
Singapore has outstanding 5G coverage throughout the entire country, and tourist SIM cards are easy to buy at Changi Airport on arrival.
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