Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is Jakarta's main airport and one of the busiest in the region. Arrival is simple once you know what to expect.
Check your visa before you fly
Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival or apply online for an electronic visa on arrival (e-VOA) before travelling. That covers tourism and business meetings. If you plan to work, study or do business beyond meetings, you need the right visa before you arrive. Rules change, so always check the current requirements on Indonesia's official immigration channels.
Know your terminal
Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are separate buildings. Check which one your flight uses, and tell whoever is collecting you.
Use official taxis or a booked car
Use only the official taxi queues or a licensed, pre-booked car. Blue Bird is widely recommended by long-term residents. Ignore unsolicited offers of a ride inside the terminal, keep your bags with you, and agree on a price with porters before they take your luggage.
Fares depend on where you're going, traffic and tolls. Allow plenty of time: the drive into central Jakarta can take well over an hour at peak times.
Register your phone if you're staying a while
Phones brought into Indonesia for longer stays may need to be registered (IMEI registration) to keep working on local SIM cards. Ask about it at customs or before you buy a local SIM.
Bags may be checked
Customs may inspect bags at random. Declare anything you're unsure about.