Whilst the new clearance system for visiting yachts introduced in February 2016 has effectively “done away” with the CAIT, until it is up and running smoothly skippers may prefer to follow the old system to ensure no problems on arrival in Indonesia.

Published 9 years ago, updated 6 years ago

Contact an Agent to find out how the situation currently stands and for their recommendations.

Read this News Report to find out about the New Rules introduced in February 2016.

Yachts without a cruising permit may stop in Indonesia, for 48 hours only, in a serious emergency, and only at one of the international ports of entry. This may be extended in case of a genuine emergency.

Cruising Permit and Security Clearance (CAIT)

The requirement that all yachts must obtain a cruising permit and security clearance in advance (CAIT) is currently being phased out. However, this does not yet appear to be accepted at every port. An agent is usually required to secure a CAIT. Be aware that there are simple permit brokers, and then there are agencies that provide a package including back up and service throughout your stay in Indonesia, at an inflated fee.

Choose your agent with care as yachts have sometimes not been dealt with fairly.

The following details and items are required for a CAIT application:

1. Details of the yacht (including photocopies of ship’s papers).

2. The planned itinerary, including last port of call before entering Indonesia, ports of call and approximate dates in Indonesia and destination after leaving Indonesia. It is wise to put down all the islands on the intended route as it is very difficult to make any changes later. Restricted areas are East Timor and Papua. Modifications may be made to the itinerary by the authorities in Jakarta.

3. Copies of the first few pages of all the crew’s passports, which must be valid for six months at the time of applying for a visa.

4. A copy of a letter of acknowledgement, from the respective embassy in Jakarta or place where the cruising permit is being initiated, as an indication that they are aware that one of their citizens is sailing with his or her yacht in Indonesian waters. The wording of the letter should be approximately the following and addressed to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Tourism, Department of Defence and Security and the Department of Sea Communications.

To Whom It May Concern

The (name) Embassy, Jakarta, certifies that (name) holder of (country) passport number 000000 is a citizen of (country) and his/her passport is valid for travel to that country. Mr/Mrs (name) states he/she is the captain of his/her yacht (boat name) registered number 000000 and he/she is requesting a sailing permit to enter Indonesian waters.

signed (Consul)

Once all details have been sent, it is difficult to modify them, whether it be dating, itinerary or ports. For any substantial changes, the initial fee may be charged again. Applications can conveniently be made by email except for the application form and money transfer, and an email copy of the CAIT will be accepted by officials.

The cruising permit (CAIT) for Indonesian waters is valid for three months from the date of entry specified. It is important to specify this date of arrival in Indonesian waters fairly accurately on one’s application, as the three months begins from this date, not the date the yacht actually arrives. If wishing to stay longer, one must have visas obtained in advance.

Once in Indonesia, the CAIT can be extended every 3 months for up to 3 years.