Bali eSIM and SIM cards: what to buy in 2026
The short answer
- Trip under a few weeks: an international travel eSIM bought before you fly is the least hassle. It roams on Indonesian networks, so no IMEI registration is needed.
- Cheapest data: a local tourist SIM or tourist eSIM, registered to your passport and phone IMEI.
- Staying over 90 days: you will need customs IMEI registration to keep using an Indonesian SIM.
Local tourist options (checked 23 Oct 2026)
| Option | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Telkomsel Tourist Prepaid Card (physical SIM) | IDR 150,000 for 25 GB + 25 min calls | Pre-order on telkomsel.com and pick up in Bali or Lombok, or buy at a GraPARI store. Bring passport and IMEI. |
| XL and Smartfren tourist eSIMs | From about IDR 45,000 | Sold online to passport holders; package sizes change often. Telkomsel does not currently sell its own eSIM directly to tourists. |
| Airport kiosks | Higher than in town | Convenient on arrival; compare with the official operator price before paying. |
The IMEI rule
Indonesia blocks foreign phones on local SIMs unless the phone's IMEI is registered. For visitors staying 90 days or less, the operator outlet that sells you a tourist SIM registers it for free. For stays over 90 days, register with customs (Bea Cukai); registering at the airport on arrival gives a duty exemption up to USD 500. Using a roaming travel eSIM or your home SIM needs no registration.
FAQ
Do I need to register my phone in Bali?
Only if you use an Indonesian SIM. The seller registers your IMEI for stays up to 90 days. Roaming travel eSIMs need no registration.
How much is a tourist SIM in Bali?
Telkomsel's official Tourist Prepaid Card is IDR 150,000 for 25 GB and 25 minutes, checked 23 October 2026.