Indonesia eSIM guide: networks, coverage and setup
Indonesia spans thousands of islands; Telkomsel has the widest coverage. Foreign phones on a local SIM must have their IMEI registered.
Get an eSIM
Local networks
- TelkomselLargest operator; over 97% population 4G coverage and the best coverage score in Opensignal tests.
- Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IM3/Tri)Second-largest network, strong in Java, Bali and Sumatra.
- XLSmart (XL/Smartfren)Formed by the 2025 merger of XL Axiata and Smartfren.
5G5G is limited to parts of major cities (Jakarta, Surabaya, Bali and others); 4G is the norm.
Must-knows
- Travel eSIMs that roam onto Indonesian networks do not need IMEI registration for a normal short trip.
- Grab and Gojek are the main ride and delivery apps; both need data.
Buying a local SIM
Tourist SIMs are sold at airport counters and official outlets. Your passport and IMEI are registered at purchase; IMEI registration for tourists is free and valid for up to 90 days. Longer stays need customs IMEI registration.
Weak-signal areas
Good in Jakarta, Bali's south, Yogyakarta and Surabaya. Nusa Penida, Komodo/Labuan Bajo boat trips, highlands and remote islands can be weak; Telkomsel usually reaches furthest.
How much data do you need?
Pick a plan of about 3.6 GB