Travel updates
What's changed in Batam.
Only things that affect your trip: ferry changes, entry rules, advisories and events. Every item names who it affects, what to do, and where we checked.
- ActiveAdvisorySource dated 5 Oct 2026 · checked 6 Oct 2026
Haze over Batam: air quality reported unhealthy, BMKG urges caution
Batam Pos reported the air quality index at 95 on 4 October 2026, then an unhealthy ISPU reading of 126 on 5 October. The weather agency BMKG has warned about smoke from forest and land fires spreading across the Riau Islands. Local conditions can change quickly with wind and rain.
Affects: Visitors to Batam and the wider Riau Islands, especially those with breathing conditions · From 4 Oct 2026
What to do: Check the latest BMKG and local air quality readings before you travel, and carry a mask if you are sensitive to haze.
- UpcomingEventsSource dated 18 Sept 2026 · checked 6 Oct 2026
Batam International Sea Eagle Boat Race returns, 13-15 November
The Batam tourism office says the boat race will be held on 13-15 November 2026 in the Elang-Elang Laut waters off Belakang Padang. This edition adds a women-only sampan rowing category. The event was revived in 2025 after a long break.
Affects: Visitors interested in local sports and maritime culture, especially around Belakang Padang · From 13 Nov 2026 to 15 Nov 2026
What to do: Confirm the programme with the Batam tourism office before planning a trip to Belakang Padang.
- ActiveFerrySource dated 17 Jun 2026 · checked 6 Oct 2026
Singapore ferries to Batam now leave from the new HarbourFront terminal
Ferry check-in in Singapore moved from the old HarbourFront Centre to a new Singapore Cruise Centre terminal at 5 HarbourFront Avenue, about 70 metres away. Batam Fast Ferry moved on 7 July 2026 and Horizon, Majestic, Sindo and Indo Falcon on 15 July. Routes and schedules were reported as unchanged, and HarbourFront Centre itself closed on 27 July 2026.
Affects: Singaporean and Malaysian visitors taking ferries from Singapore to Batam, Karimun and Nirup Island · From 7 Jul 2026
What to do: Head to 5 HarbourFront Avenue via MRT Exit B and allow extra time for check-in, as Horizon Fast Ferry advises arriving at least 90 minutes early.
- ActiveEntry rulesSource dated 31 Aug 2025 · checked 6 Oct 2026
All Indonesia digital arrival declaration required at Batam ferry ports
Since 1 September 2025, international arrivals must complete the free All Indonesia digital declaration, which combines immigration, customs, health and quarantine questions. Immigration says it can be filled in from three days before arrival, or on arrival. It is separate from any visa or visa-exemption.
Affects: All international arrivals into Batam by sea, including Singaporean and Malaysian visitors · From 1 Sept 2025
What to do: Submit the form at allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id or in the All Indonesia app before you board, and keep the QR code ready.
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