Medan Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, Indonesia, serves as a major gateway to northern Indonesia through Kualanamu International Airport (KNO). As Indonesia's fourth-largest city, Medan welcomes international travelers under Indonesia's national immigration policies. Entry requirements vary depending on nationality, with options ranging from visa-free entry to visa on arrival (VOA) and traditional visa applications. The immigration process at Kualanamu International Airport is generally straightforward, with modern facilities and clear signage in both Indonesian and English. Travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival and contains blank pages for stamps. Indonesia has implemented various visa schemes to facilitate tourism and business travel, making Medan increasingly accessible to international visitors. Before traveling to Medan, it's essential to verify current entry requirements, as policies can change. Ensure you have proof of onward or return travel, sufficient funds for your stay, and any required health documentation. While Medan is a major city with good infrastructure, being prepared with the correct documentation will ensure a smooth entry process.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Indonesia offers several visa schemes for travelers to Medan. Requirements depend on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay. Most tourists enter under visa-free or visa on arrival schemes.

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

Visa-free entry cannot be extended and is only valid for tourism purposes. You must depart within 30 days. Entry and exit must be through designated immigration checkpoints including Kualanamu International Airport.

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

30 days (extendable once for an additional 30 days)

Citizens of eligible countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at Kualanamu International Airport

Includes

United States United Kingdom Australia Canada New Zealand Most European Union countries (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, etc.) China India Japan South Korea Russia South Africa Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates Over 90 countries total

How to Apply: VOA is obtained directly at the airport immigration counter upon arrival. Payment is made on-site. Processing is typically quick (15-30 minutes depending on queue). Extension can be applied for at the local immigration office in Medan before the initial 30 days expire.
Cost: IDR 500,000 (approximately USD 35) payable in cash (IDR) or major credit cards

VOA is valid for tourism and certain business activities (meetings, conferences). Extension costs an additional fee and requires visiting the immigration office. Ensure you have proof of onward travel and accommodation.

Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)

30 days (extendable once for an additional 30 days)

Online pre-application system for visa on arrival

How to Apply: Apply online through Indonesia's official e-VOA portal (www.imigrasi.go.id or molina.imigrasi.go.id) at least 2-3 days before travel. Approval is typically granted within 1-2 business days. Print the approval and present it upon arrival.
Cost: IDR 500,000 (approximately USD 35) plus small processing fee

e-VOA offers the same benefits as regular VOA but allows faster processing at the airport. Recommended during peak travel periods to avoid queues.

Traditional Visa (Embassy/Consulate Application)

Varies by visa type: Single-entry (60-90 days), Multiple-entry (up to 1 year), Social/Cultural (up to 60 days extendable)

Required for nationalities not eligible for visa-free or VOA, or for stays longer than 60 days

How to Apply: Apply at Indonesian embassy or consulate in your home country. Submit application with required documents including passport, photos, travel itinerary, proof of funds, and invitation letter if applicable. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days.

Required for work permits, study visas, long-term stays, and nationalities not covered by visa-free or VOA schemes. Business visas (VITAS) require sponsorship from an Indonesian company or institution.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Kualanamu International Airport in Medan, you'll proceed through immigration, collect baggage, and clear customs. The process is generally efficient, though wait times can vary during peak hours.

Disembarkation and Health Screening

Exit the aircraft and follow signs to immigration. You may pass through health screening checkpoints where temperature checks or health declarations may be required, depending on current health protocols.

Visa on Arrival Purchase (if applicable)

If you require VOA, proceed to the VOA payment counter before the immigration desks. Pay the fee (IDR 500,000) and receive your payment receipt. If you have e-VOA approval, proceed directly to immigration.

Immigration Control

Queue at the appropriate immigration desk (separate lines for Indonesian citizens and foreign nationals). Present your passport, completed arrival card (usually distributed on the flight), VOA receipt if applicable, and proof of onward travel. The officer will stamp your passport with entry date and permitted stay duration.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim area and collect your luggage. Check flight information screens for your carousel number. Report any missing luggage to the airline desk in the baggage hall.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if you have items to declare or amounts exceeding duty-free allowances. Proceed through the appropriate customs channel (red for goods to declare, green for nothing to declare).

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, exit to the public arrivals area where you'll find transportation options, currency exchange, SIM card vendors, and tourist information.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival with at least 2 blank pages for stamps. Machine-readable passport required.

Arrival/Departure Card

Immigration form distributed on the flight or available at the airport. Fill out completely with arrival details, accommodation address, and purpose of visit.

Proof of Onward/Return Travel

Confirmed flight ticket out of Indonesia within your permitted stay period. Immigration may request to see this, especially for VOA applicants.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, invitation letter from host, or address where you'll be staying. May be requested by immigration officers.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence of financial means to support your stay (credit cards, cash, bank statements). Rarely requested but good to have available.

Visa Documentation

VOA payment receipt, e-VOA approval printout, or pre-arranged visa in passport depending on your entry method.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have exact change or small bills for VOA payment. While credit cards are accepted, cash (IDR) is faster and more reliable.

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

Keep your onward flight confirmation easily accessible on your phone or printed, as immigration may request to see it.

Queue times can be long during peak hours (morning international arrivals). Consider applying for e-VOA in advance for faster processing.

Take a photo of your passport and visa stamp after entry in case of loss or for extension applications.

Keep your baggage claim ticket until you've collected all luggage and exited the airport.

Exchange small amounts of currency at the airport for immediate needs (taxi, SIM card), but better rates are typically available in the city.

Download offline maps and have your accommodation address in Indonesian to show taxi drivers or for immigration if needed.

Customs & Duty-Free

Indonesia has specific customs regulations that apply to all entry points including Medan's Kualanamu International Airport. Travelers must declare items exceeding duty-free allowances and are prohibited from bringing certain goods into the country. Customs officers may inspect luggage, and penalties for non-declaration or prohibited items can be severe.

Alcohol

1 liter of alcoholic beverages

Must be 21 years or older. Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, and alcohol regulations are strict. Some regions have additional restrictions.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 100 grams of tobacco products

Must be 18 years or older. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are subject to special regulations and may be restricted.

Currency

No limit on foreign currency, but amounts exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared. Indonesian Rupiah exceeding IDR 100,000,000 must be declared.

Declaration is done via customs form. Failure to declare may result in confiscation. Keep declaration form if you plan to exit with the same amount.

Gifts/Goods

Personal goods and gifts with total value not exceeding USD 250 per person (USD 1,000 per family)

Items must be for personal use and not for commercial purposes. Electronics, perfume (reasonable quantities), and personal items are generally allowed within limits.

Perfume

Reasonable amount for personal use

Generally interpreted as 1-2 bottles. Commercial quantities will be questioned.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Indonesia has extremely strict drug laws with severe penalties including death penalty
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives - without proper permits and licenses
Pornographic materials - including magazines, videos, and digital content
Publications or materials perceived as threatening national security or public order
Counterfeit currency and goods
Endangered species and products made from protected wildlife - under CITES regulations
Fresh fruits, plants, and certain food products - may carry pests or diseases
Chinese traditional medicines containing endangered animal parts
Laser pointers above certain power levels
Certain chemicals and hazardous materials

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be accompanied by doctor's prescription and should be in original packaging with labels. Carry only reasonable quantities for personal use during your stay.
Professional camera and video equipment - may require temporary import permit or declaration to ensure re-export. Commercial filming requires special permits.
Drones and aerial photography equipment - require permits from aviation and security authorities. Recreational drones may be restricted in certain areas.
Radio communication equipment - walkie-talkies and radio transmitters may require permits
Live animals and pets - require import permits, health certificates, and rabies vaccination documentation
Certain foods and agricultural products - may require phytosanitary certificates
Religious materials for distribution - may require review to ensure compliance with local regulations
Satellite phones - may require special permits
E-cigarettes and vaping devices - regulations vary and some types may be restricted or prohibited

Health Requirements

Health requirements for entering Indonesia through Medan depend on your travel history, vaccination status, and current global health situations. While Indonesia has relaxed many pandemic-related restrictions, certain vaccinations remain required or recommended.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate - required ONLY if arriving from or transiting through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. This includes many countries in Africa and South America. Certificate must show vaccination at least 10 days before arrival.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - recommended for all travelers
Hepatitis B - recommended for most travelers
Typhoid - recommended, especially if visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Japanese Encephalitis - for extended stays or rural travel
Rabies - for travelers with extensive outdoor activities or animal contact
Routine vaccinations - ensure up-to-date on measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and yearly flu shot
Malaria prophylaxis - may be recommended depending on travel plans outside Medan

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Medan are adequate for routine care, but serious conditions may require evacuation to Singapore or Jakarta. Ensure your insurance covers Indonesia and includes COVID-19 related treatment if applicable. Keep insurance documents and emergency contact numbers easily accessible.

Current Health Requirements: As of late 2024, Indonesia has removed most COVID-19 entry requirements, but policies can change rapidly. Check the Indonesian Ministry of Health and your departure country's travel advisories for current requirements regarding COVID-19 vaccination, testing, or quarantine. Some countries may have specific health screening requirements. Health declaration forms may still be required upon arrival. Travelers should monitor official sources for updates on health protocols, especially during outbreaks of communicable diseases.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Indonesia (located in Jakarta or Medan for some countries)

Register with your embassy's travel registration system before departure. Check your government's travel advisory website for current safety and entry information. Embassy contact details should be saved in your phone.

Immigration Authority

Directorate General of Immigration Indonesia - www.imigrasi.go.id | Immigration Office Medan: Jl. Beringin No. 1, Medan

For visa extensions, lost passport reports, and official immigration inquiries. Bring passport, photos, and required fees for services.

Emergency Services

Emergency number in Indonesia: 112 (general emergency) | Police: 110 | Ambulance: 118 | Fire: 113

English may be limited; have hotel staff or local contact assist if possible. Tourist Police in major areas may have English speakers.

Kualanamu International Airport

Airport Information: +62 61 888 5888 | Website: www.kualanamu-airport.co.id

For flight information, lost luggage, and airport services. Customer service desks located in arrivals and departures areas.

Tourist Information

North Sumatra Tourism Office | Tourist information desks at Kualanamu Airport

For general tourist information, maps, and assistance with local travel arrangements.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (family passports are not accepted). If a child is traveling with only one parent or with guardians/relatives, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) authorizing the travel. This may be requested by immigration. Birth certificates should also be carried. Children are subject to the same visa requirements as adults. For children traveling alone (unaccompanied minors), special airline procedures apply and additional documentation is required.

Traveling with Pets

Indonesia has strict pet import regulations. Required documents include: import permit from Indonesian Quarantine Authority (obtained in advance), valid rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days before arrival but not more than 1 year), health certificate from licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of departure, microchip identification. Pets must undergo quarantine inspection upon arrival (duration varies). Only dogs and cats are commonly permitted; other animals may face additional restrictions. Contact the Indonesian Quarantine Authority well in advance (at least 2-3 months) to arrange permits. Airlines have specific requirements for pet transport - confirm with your carrier.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas (VOA and visa-free) allow maximum 30-60 days. For longer stays, options include: 1) Social-Cultural Visa (Sosial Budaya) - valid up to 60 days, extendable up to 4 times (30 days each), total maximum 180 days, requires Indonesian sponsor; 2) Business Visa (VITAS) - for work-related activities, requires sponsorship from Indonesian company; 3) Limited Stay Permit (KITAS) - for long-term residence, work, study, or family reunification; 4) Retirement Visa - for retirees meeting age and financial requirements. Extensions must be applied for at the local immigration office before current visa expires. Overstaying results in daily fines (IDR 300,000-1,000,000 per day) and potential deportation and ban from re-entry.

Business Travelers

Business visitors can use VOA for short-term activities like meetings, conferences, and negotiations (no paid work). For actual employment or extended business activities, a Business Visa (VITAS) and Work Permit (IMTA) are required, sponsored by an Indonesian company. Carry business cards, invitation letters from Indonesian partners, and conference registration if attending events. Multiple-entry business visas are available for frequent travelers.

Students and Researchers

Students require a Student Visa (VITAS) sponsored by the educational institution in Indonesia. Required documents include acceptance letter, proof of financial support, and academic transcripts. Researchers need appropriate visa sponsored by research institution or university. Both can be extended through the immigration office. Register with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival.

Dual Nationals

Indonesia does not recognize dual nationality for Indonesian citizens. If you hold Indonesian citizenship plus another nationality, you must enter and exit Indonesia using your Indonesian passport. Using a foreign passport when you hold Indonesian citizenship can result in complications and penalties.

Lost or Stolen Passport During Stay

Immediately report to local police to obtain a police report (required for replacement). Contact your embassy/consulate to apply for emergency travel document or replacement passport. Visit the local immigration office with police report and embassy letter to obtain exit permit. This process can take several days to weeks, so allow extra time and maintain photocopies/digital copies of your passport.