Digital Services and Connectivity in Indonesia: what actually matters to know

Even if the phone is purchased from an official local reseller (e.g., Apple reseller in Beachwalk Shopping Center) and should have a pre-registered IMEI, the SIM card might be activated with a 30-day tourist validity instead of the standard 90 days. This can lead to confusion when an IMEI expiry reminder is received. SIM cards (physical) are not affected by being removed/reinserted, and the internet package is tied to the number and validity period, not continuous phone insertion. If an IMEI expiry message is received, check IMEI registration status and consult the SIM card provider (e.g., Telkomsel) or the phone reseller. After SIM reinsertion on Android, ensure Telkomsel is selected for mobile data.

Recommended troubleshooting: toggle airplane mode, manually select network operator (Telkomsel usually works best), and ensure the 'Easy Roaming and International Access' service is active in the provider's mobile app.

No roaming is required; a basic local tariff with SMS capability is sufficient. Occasional short delays in message delivery may occur.

This requirement applies to both locals and foreign tourists, with the system checking faces against the immigration database.

In some cases, using a mobile hotspot from a Russian SIM card helps circumvent connection restrictions.

The issue might be related to the phone's network settings or a carrier-specific activation process.