Moving to Indonesia

What do I need to know before moving to Indonesia?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Indonesia, they said:

"It can be difficult for a new expat, but I would recommend driving around and looking at several houses and complexes before making a decision, so you get an idea of what to expect," commented one expat who made the move to Batam.

"My advice is to get on the internet and learn all you can about neighborhoods and available housing. Try to communicate with people already living here to survey their housing situation. Select your neighborhood based on convenient drive to work and school. Use a reputable agent, or better yet, use many agents. Be firm about your requirements so you aren't dragged to the listings they are pushing, but the properties that meet your needs. Visit your prefered property at noon or 3 p.m. to hear how loud is the local mosque's call to prayer (because you don't want to discover this on your first night in the house when the 4 a.m. call is made!). Highly recommend having a housing audit (electric, plumbimg, mechanical) before signing a contract, and get a maintenance contract from a vendor of your chosing, not the owner. In this city, it is more the rule than the exception, that having maintenance done after the owner had been paid is an exercise in frustration," remarked one expat in Jakarta, Indonesia.

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How do I find a place to live in Indonesia?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"I looked around and used local housing agents for my first house, which I overpaid on significantly. The next house was a much better deal, though still had to pay 1 year in advance," said one expat in Batam.

"We moved into staff housing already selected and under contract before we'd arrived," said one expat who made the move to Jakarta.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Indonesia?

"3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, driveway, not much of a yard. This is pretty typical for the area, and a lot of expats live in this area," explained one expat living in Batam, Indonesia.

"Single family detached house which is typical for most expats in our area. High-rise apartments are also popular for those not wishing to employ a lot of staff for gardens or security, and those who don't want to worry about their homes when traveling," said one expat in Jakarta.

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What is the average cost of housing in Indonesia?

If you are thinking about moving to Indonesia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"My housing cost is lower here. Not sure about the average housing costs in Houston, TX," explained one expat living in Jakarta, Indonesia.

"Right now, we've just continued the leased from the previous family but the ball park would be $1,000/month with 3 security guards on 8 hours rotation provided by the company. $1,000-2,000/month is the average cost of leasing a house. Apartment, I don't know," said one expat in Jakarta.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Indonesia?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Indonesia, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Indonesia could be a good investment and provide both financial security and a sense of stability. Renting may be a better option for those who do not plan to stay in Indonesia for a long period of time, as it is less expensive and does not involve the commitment of a long-term mortgage. Additionally, renting may allow for more flexibility if you decide to move within the country or need to move out of the country. Consider your needs and circumstances before deciding to buy or rent a home in Indonesia," said one expat who made the move to Indonesia.

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What should I pack when moving to Indonesia?

We asked people living in Indonesia to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Indonesia, prepare to pack clothes appropriate to the climate of the area you are moving to. Be sure to also pack items such as sunscreen and insect repellant to protect yourself from the sun and insect-borne illnesses. Additionally, important documents such as your passport and visas should be packed in an easily accessible place. Other items such as toiletries, a flashlight, and first-aid supplies should be brought along as well. Electronics such as laptops, phones, and chargers are also essential items to pack before your move. Furthermore, items for entertainment and for making meals such as books, board games, cookware, and utensils are important to include in your move," said one expat who made the move to Indonesia.

"My favorite deodorant, an extra pair of shoes (I've got big feet), a decent pizza I packed pretty light," explained one expat living in Batam, Indonesia.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Indonesia?

We asked people in Indonesia if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"I asked for a "berak" necklace...instead of Perak (silver). I'd actually asked for a "shit" necklace. Amazing what mess you make with a B instead of a P!!," said one expat in Jakarta.

"I do not require my household help to cook much during Ramadan since they are fasting. Near the end of Ramadan this month, I had made a new recipe and my helper was in the kitchen drying dishes. She was asking questions about the recipe, when I evidently had brain-fade and said, "Here, taste it and let me know what you think." She just laughed and said, "Mem, it Ramadan!"," said one expat who made the move to Duri/Simpang Padong, Riau, Sumatra.

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Why do people move to Indonesia?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Indonesia, they responded:

"Indonesia offers expats a unique cultural experience which is quite different from other countries. Its tropical climate and natural beauty, as well as its vibrant cities and traditional villages, make it an attractive destination for anyone wanting to relocate. The cost of living is relatively low, making it a great place to live on a budget. Additionally, there are plenty of job opportunities in the country, ranging from IT to education. Finally, Indonesia has a friendly population that is welcoming to expats," remarked one expat in Indonesia.

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How are healthcare services Indonesia?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Indonesia, they replied:

"In Indonesia, healthcare services include public health, family planning, communicable and non-communicable disease control, clinical and laboratory procedures, health promotion, health education and training, and rehabilitation. The public healthcare system in Indonesia is government-funded, and is mainly provided by public medical facilities owned by the Ministry of Health or the Social Security Administering Body. In general, the quality of public health care has improved in Indonesia in recent years due to increased access to funds, better trained personnel, enhanced facilities and improved health insurance. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system in Indonesia, provided they fulfill certain criteria. Expats are not eligible for public health insurance, but they may purchase private health insurance for themselves and their families, which is available from a range of licensed insurance providers. Expats in Indonesia can use the public healthcare system, and some may choose to do so depending on their financial situation and the standard of care provided at the public hospital or clinic they visit," commented one expat living in Indonesia.

"It's very important to have health insurance and if you're on an international scheme, then have the documents on the ready to give proof. If you don't have healthcare insurance, be prepared to pay a pretty penny when sorting health bills," commented one expat who moved to Bali, Indonesia.

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What are medical services in Indonesia like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Indonesia, they replied:

"Indonesia has a modern healthcare system, with a wide variety of medical facilities providing comprehensive medical services. The country offers both private and public medical services, and the quality of treatment provided is generally good. Many physicians in Indonesia are educated abroad and have access to up-to-date technology and treatments. Hospitals are well-equipped and the country has a range of specialty clinics including ophthalmology, general surgery, orthopedics, cardiology and more. Most medical services in Indonesia, especially public services, are relatively affordable compared to other countries. Pharmacies are plentiful and medicine is available, both in prescription and over-the-counter," remarked one expat in Indonesia.

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