Unblocking Your Phone's IMEI in Bali
Understanding IMEI Registration:
Indonesia requires IMEI registration for all mobile devices used with local SIM cards. This regulation aims to combat illegal phone imports and trafficking. If you plan to stay in Bali for over 90 days and use a local SIM card, you'll need to register your phone's IMEI.
Options for Unblocking:
Several options exist for unblocking your phone's IMEI and enabling it to work with a local SIM card:
-
Temporary Registration:
- This is the most common solution for tourists staying less than 90 days.
- Purchase a local SIM card from a mobile operator (Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat are popular choices).
- Inform the seller that you need temporary IMEI registration.
- They will register your phone for free, usually valid for 3 months.
- After 3 months, you can either:
- Repeat the process with a new SIM card (up to 3 SIMs per passport).
- Visit the mobile operator's office and request an extension (availability may vary).
-
Permanent Registration:
- Suitable for long-term stays (over 90 days).
- Requires visiting the customs office (Bea Cukai) within 60 days of arrival.
- Pay a tax of 40% of the phone's value exceeding $500.
- This registers your phone permanently, allowing uninterrupted use with local SIMs.
Additional Considerations:
- Airport Registration: If you register your phone at the airport upon arrival, you may be eligible for a $500 exemption on the phone's value for tax calculation.
- Local Phone Purchase: As an alternative, you can purchase a cheap local phone to use for calls and internet and tether it to your primary device.
- Mobile Hotspot Tethering: If your phone's IMEI is blocked, you can still use mobile data by enabling the mobile hotspot feature and connecting other devices to your phone's Wi-Fi.
- eSIM/iSIM: While options like Airalo offer eSIMs, local operators in Bali primarily provide iSIMs, which may have limited data packages and require local payment methods.
Recommendation:
For short stays, temporary registration through a local SIM card purchase is the most convenient option. For longer stays, consider permanent registration or using a local phone for tethering.