Indonesia SIM Card & eSIM Guide for Tourists (2025 Update): Where to Buy, Prices and Best Providers

Stay connected anywhere with an Indonesia SIM card for tourists — the easiest way to use data while traveling.

Planning a trip to Indonesia in 2025—whether it’s for a beach getaway, a business trip, or a long-term stay as an expat—staying connected is essential. The best way to do that affordably is by getting a SIM card in Indonesia or activating an eSIM in Indonesia. Local SIM and eSIM options offer fast internet, local call services, and flexible plans that make life easier while you explore or work in the country.

This 2025 Indonesia SIM guide will help you understand everything you need to know before you arrive—from the best Indonesia SIM card for tourists to the benefits of using an Indonesia eSIM card, where to buy them, and how much they cost.

Also read: Indonesia National Holiday and Collective Leaves 2026

Why You Need a Local SIM Card in Indonesia

Using your home mobile plan with international roaming in Indonesia can get expensive fast. That’s why most travelers, digital nomads, and expats prefer getting a local SIM card in Indonesia or activating an eSIM Indonesia instead.

With a local SIM or eSIM, you’ll enjoy affordable data, calls, and texts — plus seamless access to essential local apps like Gojek, Grab, and Tokopedia. Stay connected on social media, share your Bali sunsets, and navigate easily without worrying about high roaming fees.

Having a local Indonesia SIM card or e-SIM card in Indonesia means you can easily navigate with Google Maps, book rides, and stay in touch with friends and family. You’ll also find it more convenient since many services, including deliveries and local registration apps, often require an Indonesian number.

Plus, coverage across the archipelago has improved dramatically, with 4G and even 5G now available in major cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya.

Physical SIM vs eSIM: Which One to Choose?

Both physical and digital SIMs are available in Indonesia. An Indonesian SIM card is the traditional option and is sold everywhere—from airports to small convenience stores. It’s inexpensive, reliable, and works on any unlocked phone. However, it requires you to insert the card manually, and you may need to register your passport and IMEI at purchase.

If you have a newer smartphone, you might prefer the eSIM Indonesia, a digital version that can be activated instantly. An eSIM card in Indonesia lets you download your data plan via a QR code, so you don’t need to visit a store or swap physical cards. It’s perfect for travelers who want to stay connected as soon as they land or for expats who juggle business and personal numbers.

The Indonesia eSIM is especially convenient for dual-SIM users who want to keep their home number active while using local data.

Best Providers for SIM Card and eSIM in Indonesia

There are three major mobile operators in Indonesia that cater to both tourists and residents: Telkomsel, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IM3), and XL Axiata. Among these, Telkomsel offers the widest coverage, even on remote islands, making it the top choice for those traveling across different regions. Indosat provides affordable prepaid plans ideal for students and budget travelers, while XL Axiata is known for reliable speeds in urban areas.

If you’re buying an Indonesia SIM card for tourists, all three providers offer dedicated tourist plans with generous data packages and easy top-up options. The same networks also support Indonesia eSIM card activation through third-party platforms like Airalo, Nomad, JetPac, or SimOptions.

Prices vary slightly between providers, but here’s what you can expect in 2025:

Type	Data	Validity	Approx. Price
Physical SIM Telkomsel Tourist	25GB (3G/4G/5G)	30 days	IDR 150,000
eSIM XL Axiata	20GB	45 days	IDR 370,000
Physical SIM IM3	3GB	30 days	IDR 35,000
eSIM by Tri Indonesia	3GB	30 days	IDR 35,000
eSIM Indonesia (Airalo, Nomad, JetPac)	10–20 GB	15–30 days	USD 15–25
eSIM Unlimited Data	Unlimited	30 days	USD 30–40

Tip: If you only need short-term internet for navigation or messaging, a small data eSIM card Indonesia might be enough. For long-term expats or business travelers, physical SIMs often give better value for heavy data use.

Also read: How to Open a Bank Account in Indonesia: Step-by-Step Guide for Expats

Where and How to Buy a SIM or eSIM in Indonesia

The most convenient place to buy a SIM Indonesia is at the airport upon arrival. Major airports like Soekarno-Hatta in Jakarta and Ngurah Rai in Bali have official booths from Telkomsel, XL, and Indosat selling pre-registered SIM cards designed specifically for travelers. These are usually a bit pricier but hassle-free, letting you go online as soon as you land.

If you prefer to buy in the city, you can find SIM cards in mobile stores or even at popular convenience chains such as Indomaret and Alfamart. Staff can assist you with registration, which typically requires showing your passport.

For those going digital, buying an Indonesia eSIM is even easier. You can purchase an eSIMcard in Indonesia or before your trip through providers like Telkomsel, Airalo, or Nomad. After purchase, you’ll receive a QR code via email; simply scan it, and your eSIM card Indonesia will activate instantly—no store visit required.

Whether you’re a backpacker exploring Bali, a student studying in Yogyakarta, or a business traveler attending meetings in Jakarta, getting connected with a local Indonesian SIM card or eSIM Indonesia is a must. It’s the easiest way to stay online, navigate, and access everything Indonesia has to offer—from world-famous beaches to buzzing coworking spaces.

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For most travelers, a tourist SIM card in Indonesia offers great value, while the Indonesia eSIM card is perfect for those who prefer instant digital activation. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy fast, affordable connectivity that makes your Indonesian adventure smoother from the moment you land.

For the ultimate home away from home experience during your trip, stay with Rukita, as Indonesia’s leading coliving and apartment provider.

Whether you’re visiting for business, study, or a long vacation, Rukita offers modern and fully furnished accommodation in Indonesia’s top cities like Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, and Bali. Each property is designed for comfort and convenience, complete with essential amenities, flexible rental options, and a welcoming community.

With Rukita, finding the perfect place to stay in Indonesia is as easy as activating your SIM card—simple, seamless, and made for travelers like you.

Don’t forget to download Rukita app via Google Play Store or App Store or visit www.rukita.co. Follow Rukita’s Instagram account @rukita_indo, X account @rukita_id, and TikTok account @rukita_id to get the most recent information and other interesting deals!