Your passport is vital proof of identity that you must carry whenever you travel abroad. Think of your passport as the international version of your electronic ID card. However, unlike the electronic ID that doesn’t expire, a passport has a maximum validity of 10 years, according to Article 2A of the Regulation of the Minister of Law and Human Rights of the Republic of Indonesia (Permenkumham) Number 18 of 2022. To keep using your passport, especially if you frequently travel abroad, you will need to renew it before it expires.
When it comes to renewing documents, many people love to do it at the last minute. For example, if your passport expires on September 3, 2025, you might only apply for renewal in late August 2025 or even on September 2, 2025.
In fact, when renewing your passport, waiting until it's almost expired is not recommended. Instead, renew it 6 months beforehand. Why? Here are a few important reasons!
Nowadays, you need to get a queue number through a mobile app before renewing your passport. It’s quite convenient, but daily quotas are limited for both new passport applications and renewals.
In some regions, passport appointment queues can be fully booked far in advance. If you register too close to your passport's expiration date, you might not get a queue number in time, and your passport could expire before you can renew it.
As with any system, unexpected issues can sometimes occur. It could be a connectivity issue, a power outage, or another hiccup. If you give enough time between your passport’s expiry and the renewal, you reduce the risk of missing your trip due to a delayed renewal process.
Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 more months before they let you in. So, if you're planning to visit one of those countries, renewing your passport more than 6 months in advance is highly recommended. You can renew your passport 7–8 months in advance, before applying for a visa to your destination country.
Also Read: How to Apply for a Japan Visa Waiver
Planning to renew your passport? As mentioned earlier, whether you're renewing a regular or electronic passport, you will need to register online first.
Here’s the full step-by-step process and the fees:
The first step is to install a mobile app called M-Paspor to get a queue number. You can download M-Paspor from Play Store or App Store.Start with creating an account by following the instructions. Next, fill in your personal data and double-check everything to make sure it's accurate.
During the renewal process, you will be required to upload several documents, including:
Make sure all uploaded documents are clear and readable so your data can be verified smoothly.
Once all documents are uploaded and your personal data is fully filled out, the next step is to select the immigration office you will be visiting. Even though most of the process is done online, you still need to visit the immigration office in person for an interview and a new photo session for your new passport. So, be sure to choose the schedule and immigration office location you will visit.
Once everything is ready and complete, the next step is to proceed with the payment. The payment amount will depend on your passport type and its validity period. According to imigrasi.go.id, the renewal fees are:
However, these fees may change, so make sure to check the latest rates before renewing your passport.
Also Read: Here’s How to Apply for a Japan Visa
All the online steps are done! Now, you just need to visit the immigration office for your interview and to have your photo taken for your new passport. Make sure to arrive on time according to your appointment schedule, and wear neat clothing with closed-toe shoes.
Successfully renewed your passport? It’s time to make the most of it with a trip abroad! If you already have a destination in mind, purchasing Overseas Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia is also a good idea. That way, your journey will be much more comfortable and worry-free.