Travelers often face significant issues when their passports are damaged, which can disrupt their holiday plans. This problem is particularly concerning for those planning to visit Indonesia, as the country enforces strict regulations against the use of damaged passports. What exactly are these regulations?

Recently, a viral incident on social media highlighted the case of an Instagram influencer from Aceh who was denied check-in at Kualanamu Airport in Medan due to her damaged passport. This enforcement is in line with the Regulation of the Minister of Law and Human Rights (Permenkumham) Number 8 of 2014 concerning Ordinary Passports and Travel Documents.

A damaged passport encompasses more than just physical damage such as tears, missing pages, or stains. Severe creases, damage to the electronic chip, or peeling lamination also qualify. Additionally, if the photo or personal information is hard to read or distorted, the passport is considered damaged.

Read also: Government Cuts Number of International Airports in Indonesia to 17, Here’s the List!

A passport in poor condition undermines the confidence of immigration officers and increases the risk of misuse by irresponsible parties. Therefore, it is crucial for passport holders to maintain their documents in good condition.

Indonesia’s Strict Policy on Damaged Passports

According to Permenkumham Number 8 of 2014, damaged passports cannot be used for travel. Individuals with such passports are not permitted to check-in for flights.

Article 35 Paragraph (1) letter f of Permenkumham Number 8 of 2014 defines a damaged passport as one where the information is unclear or gives the impression that it is no longer a proper official document.

This regulation aims to enhance the security of international travel. A passport is a highly sensitive document that serves as identification and a tool for entering and exiting a country. Damaged passports can be easily misused or forged, posing a threat to national security.

Identifying Damaged Passports

According to the Directorate General of Immigration (Dirjen Imigrasi) of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkumham), the following are characteristics of a damaged passport that cannot be used for travel:

• Torn or cut
• Holes
• Scribbled on
• Wet
• Creased
• Burned

In addition to damage, passports may be invalid for other reasons, such as nearing expiration. Some countries do not allow entry if the passport will expire in 6 months or less.

A passport may also be invalid if all its blank pages are used up. Frequent travelers often have multiple visas and stamps, requiring several blank pages.

Fake passports are also invalid and can ruin travel plans. Ensure to apply for a passport through the correct channels and avoid middlemen. Scammers sometimes create fake websites or send messages pretending to be from the Immigration Office.

Major airports like Soekarno-Hatta offer expedited passport services. If you need a replacement, this service can provide a new passport within hours.

Steps and Procedures for Replacing a Damaged Passport

According to the Directorate General of Immigration’s website, here are the steps for replacing a damaged passport:

1. Visit the nearest immigration office with the damaged passport, valid ID card, and family card.
2. Fill in the data in the application available at the request counter.
3. Attach the required documents.
4. Immigration officers will review the replacement passport application in an Examination Report (BAP).
5. The BAP will be submitted to the Head of the Immigration Office for consideration.
6. If approved, proceed with payment.
7. The new passport will be ready in approximately 14 working days.

If the damage occurred due to carelessness, a replacement passport will be issued. However, if the damage is found to be due to negligence, the passport can be suspended for six months to two years.

The replacement fee for a damaged non-electronic passport is Rp350,000, while for an electronic passport, it is around Rp650,000. However, if in a hurry, you can use the expedited passport service available within 1-2 days for a fee of Rp1,000,000.

Ensuring a Smooth Travel Experience to Indonesia

For international travelers planning to visit Indonesia, it is crucial to ensure that their passports are in perfect condition. Those with damaged passports need to replace them before traveling. The replacement process may require additional time and costs, but it is a necessary step to avoid issues upon arrival in Indonesia.

Prohibiting the use of damaged passports for entry into Indonesia is a vital measure to enhance national security and ensure the integrity of travel documents. International travelers are encouraged to take better care of their passports and promptly handle replacements if damage occurs. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, travelers can ensure a smooth journey to Indonesia without unwanted disruptions.

Additionally, if you are planning a trip to Indonesia and wish to avoid the hassle of visa and other travel permits, our company, Bizindo, is here to facilitate. Bizindo offers comprehensive services that include visa processing, permits, and other travel needs, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about documents and administrative procedures. Contact us now for an easy and convenient travel solution to Indonesia.