How Long is a Bali SIM Valid? Complete Guide to Telkomsel eSIM Expiry (2025)

Quick Answer

Bali SIM and eSIM validity ranges from 7 to 30 days depending on your chosen data package, with Telkomsel offering the most flexible options for tourists. 

Your eSIM remains active as long as you top up before the expiry date—you can extend indefinitely by purchasing additional packages or adding credit (pulsa). 

BaliSIM’s Telkomsel eSIM packages typically offer 14-30 day validity periods, perfect for typical Bali vacations, and can be easily extended online if you decide to stay longer.

Introduction: Understanding Validity vs. Expiration

One of the most common questions from first-time Bali travelers is: “How long will my SIM card work?” The answer involves understanding two separate but related concepts: data package validity (how long your internet access lasts) and SIM card active period (how long your phone number remains functional).

Unlike postpaid plans in many Western countries where your service automatically renews monthly, Indonesian prepaid SIMs and eSIMs operate on a time-limited validity system. This means your service has a definite expiration date—but the good news is extending it is simple and inexpensive.

This comprehensive guide explains everything about Bali SIM validity: how long different packages last, what happens when they expire, how to extend validity before or after expiration, strategies for keeping your number alive for future trips, and how BaliSIM makes validity management effortless.

Understanding Two Types of Validity

1. Data Package Validity (Internet Access Period)

This is the timeframe during which your mobile data works for internet access.

What it controls: 

• Internet browsing 
• Social media apps 
• Google Maps 
• Streaming services 
• Email and cloud services 
• Ride-sharing apps (Gojek, Grab)

Typical validity periods: 

• Short packages: 3-7 days (quick weekend trips) 
• Standard packages: 14-15 days (typical 2-week vacation) 
• Extended packages: 30 days (month-long stays or digital nomads) 
• Premium packages: 60-90 days (rare, usually for XL provider)

Example:
You purchase a 15 GB Telkomsel package with 30-day validity on January 1st. Your data will work until January 31st at 23:59. On February 1st, if you haven’t topped up, your internet stops working—even if you have data remaining.

Important: If your package has 15 GB and you only use 8 GB before expiry, the remaining 7 GB disappears and cannot be recovered.

2. SIM Card Active Period (Phone Number Validity)

This determines how long your Indonesian phone number remains active on the Telkomsel network.

What it controls: - Your ability to receive calls (incoming always free) - Your ability to receive SMS (incoming always free) - Your ability to make calls (if you have calling credit) - Your ability to purchase new data packages - Your number’s existence in the Telkomsel system

How it extends: Every time you add credit (pulsa) or purchase a data package, your active period extends based on the top-up amount:

 

Critical difference:

• Data expires on a fixed date regardless of usage 
• Number validity extends every time you add value to the account

Example scenario:
You buy a 30-day data package on January 1st. Data expires January 31st. But because you made this purchase, your phone number remains active until at least January 31st—and likely longer depending on package value. 

If you top up with just 20,000 IDR credit on January 25th (even without buying more data), your number extends another 7-14 days to ~February 10th, even though your original data already expired.

BaliSIM Telkomsel eSIM Validity Periods

BaliSIM offers several Telkomsel eSIM packages with different validity periods designed for various travel durations:

Bali Visitor Packages (Regional Coverage)

Focus: Optimized for travelers staying primarily in Bali.

Coverage: Full 4G/5G throughout Bali and nearby islands (Nusa Penida, Lombok)

IMEI Registration: 30 days (Telkomsel standard)

Indonesia Nationwide Packages

Focus: For travelers exploring beyond Bali (Java, Sumatra, Lombok, etc.)

 

Coverage: All of Indonesia (99% coverage including remote areas)

IMEI Registration: 30 days (Telkomsel standard)

XL Axiata eSIM Packages (Alternative Provider)

Note: XL offers longer IMEI registration (90 days) but slightly less coverage

Advantage: Single IMEI registration lasts 90 days (vs. 30 for Telkomsel)
Disadvantage: Slightly less 5G coverage in Bali tourist areas

What Happens When Your Package Expires?

Understanding expiration consequences helps you plan ahead and avoid unexpected disconnections:

Scenario 1: Data Expires, But Number Still Active

What stops working: 

• Mobile internet (browsing, apps, maps)

• App notifications over cellular

• Email sync when not on WiFi

• Ride-sharing apps without WiFi

What still works: 

• Receiving incoming calls (free)

• Receiving incoming SMS (free)

• Making calls (if you have pulsa/calling credit)

• Sending SMS (if you have pulsa)

• Purchasing new data packages

Real-world impact: 

- You’ll need WiFi for Google Maps and Grab/Gojek 

- WhatsApp messages won’t arrive until you’re on WiFi 

- You can still receive verification SMS codes 

- Your Indonesian contacts can still reach you by phone

Solution: Purchase a new data package through BaliSIM.com (takes 5 minutes, data activates within 15 minutes)

Scenario 2: Both Data AND Number Validity Expire

What stops working: 

• Everything cellular-related

• Network connection completely lost

• Cannot receive calls or SMS

• Number shows “Not in Service” to callers

• Cannot purchase packages online (number inactive)

Timeline to permanent deactivation: 

- 0-30 days after expiry: Number suspended but recoverable with top-up 

- 30-60 days after expiry: Number enters “grace period”—may be difficult to reactivate 

- 60+ days after expiry: Number permanently deactivated and released back to Telkomsel’s pool

Solution: 

- If caught within 30 days: Contact BaliSIM support (support@balisim.com) with your eSIM details. They can often help reactivate by processing a top-up on your behalf. 

- If 30-60 days: More difficult—may require contacting Telkomsel directly (Indonesian language, complicated) 

- If 60+ days: Likely too late—need to purchase new eSIM with new number

Prevention is key: Always top up at least 3-5 days before expiry to avoid disconnection.

Scenario 3: You Leave Bali But Plan to Return

If you want to keep your number alive for a future Bali trip:

Method 1: Minimum credit top-up 

- Purchase 20,000-50,000 IDR credit (pulsa) before leaving 

- Cost: ~$1.30-$3.20 USD 

- Extends number validity 30-60 days 

- Allows you to return within 1-2 months and simply buy a new data package

Method 2: Small data package 

- Buy the cheapest data package available (even if you won’t use it) 

- Cost: ~$5-7 USD - Extends validity 30 days 

- Data goes unused, but number stays alive

Why keep your number? 

• Maintains Gojek/Grab accounts (avoids re-verification)

• Preserves Indonesian WhatsApp Business contacts

• Skips IMEI re-registration if returning within the valid period

• Useful if Indonesian businesses have your number

Cost-benefit analysis: 

- Cost to keep alive 3 months: ~$10-15 USD 

- Cost of new eSIM + setup hassle: ~$14 USD + time 

- Worth it if you’re returning within 90 days

How to Check Your Validity Period

Method 1: Dial *888# (Instant Check)

Process: 1. Open phone dialer 2. Type *888# 3. Press call

What displays:

Telkomsel Info
───────────────
Pulsa: Rp 25,000
Data: 8.5 GB
Expires: 22 Jan 2025 23:59
───────────────
1. Buy Package
2. Check Details

The “Expires” date shows when your current data package ends.

Pro tip: Set a phone reminder 3-5 days before this date to arrange top-up if extending your stay.

Method 2: SMS to 3636

Process: 1. Send SMS with text “INFO” 2. To number: 3636 3. Receive detailed reply within 30 seconds

Response includes: 

- Data remaining 

- Credit balance 

- Package expiry date 

- Active period (number validity)

This method shows BOTH validity types clearly.

Method 3: MyTelkomsel App

Process: 1. Open MyTelkomsel app 2. Home screen displays large countdown: “14 days remaining” 3. Tap “View Details” for exact expiry date and time

Advantage: Visual countdown that’s hard to miss

Disadvantage: Requires internet connection to refresh

Method 4: BaliSIM Account Portal (If Available)

When you purchase from BaliSIM, your confirmation email includes: 

- Package activation date 

- Package expiry date 

- Data allowance

Save this email for reference throughout your trip.

How to Extend Validity Before Expiration

The easiest time to extend your eSIM validity is before it expires. Here are your options:

Option 1: Purchase New Data Package (MOST COMMON)

Through BaliSIM.com:

1. Visit: https://balisim.com/collections/top-up/products/telkomsel-data-top-up

2. Select package based on remaining trip length:

• Extending 1 week: 5-10 GB package

• Extending 2 weeks: 15-20 GB package

• Extending 1 month: 30-50 GB package

3. Enter your Telkomsel number

4. Complete payment (credit card, PayPal)

5. Receive confirmation via email and SMS

6. Result:

• New data ADDS to existing balance (they stack)

• Expiry date EXTENDS to new package’s validity period

Example: - Current status: 3 GB remaining, expires January 20 - You buy: 15 GB package (30-day validity) on January 15 - New status: 18 GB total, expires February 15

Processing time: 5-15 minutes for activation

Option 2: Add Calling Credit (Pulsa) Only

If you don’t need more data but want to keep number active:

Through BaliSIM.com: 

1. Navigate to credit (pulsa) top-up section 

2. Purchase minimum amount (20,000-50,000 IDR / ~$1.30-$3.20) 

3. Your number validity extends 7-30 days

Through MyTelkomsel App: 

1. Open app 

2. Go to “Pulsa” section 

3. Select top-up amount 

4. Complete payment

Use case: You’re leaving Bali in 3 days but might return in 2 months—add minimal credit to keep number alive without wasting data.

Option 3: Physical Top-Up at Convenience Stores

Location: Any Indomaret, Alfamart, or Telkomsel GraPARI store

What to say: “Top up Telkomsel data, please” (English)
“Isi paket data Telkomsel” (Bahasa Indonesia)

Process: 

1. Provide phone number 

2. Choose package (point to price: 50,000 / 100,000 / 150,000 IDR) 

3. Pay cash 4. Receive SMS confirmation within 2 minutes

Availability: 24/7 at Circle K and many Indomaret/Alfamart locations

How to Reactivate After Expiration

If you missed the expiry date and your service stopped:

If Expired Less Than 7 Days Ago (EASY)

Your number is still in the system—reactivation is straightforward:

Method 1: Self-Service Top-Up 

1. Connect to WiFi 

2. Visit BaliSIM.com top-up page 

3. Purchase data package using your Telkomsel number 

4. Wait 15-30 minutes for system reactivation 5. Restart phone

Success rate: ~95% if under 7 days

Method 2: Contact BaliSIM Support 

1. Email: support@balisim.com 

2. WhatsApp: +62 813-3977-4203 

3. Provide: Your Telkomsel number, original purchase details 

4. Request reactivation assistance 

5. They’ll process top-up manually if needed

If Expired 7-30 Days Ago (MODERATE)

Number is suspended but still recoverable:

Required action: 

1. Contact BaliSIM support immediately—self-service likely won’t work 

2. Provide all eSIM details (order number, phone number, passport copy) 

3. BaliSIM will coordinate with Telkomsel for reactivation 

4. Purchase larger top-up (100,000 IDR minimum) to ensure reactivation succeeds 

5. Reactivation may take 24-48 hours

Success rate: ~70-80% if caught within 30 days

Important: The longer you wait within this window, the harder reactivation becomes.

If Expired 30+ Days Ago (DIFFICULT)

Number has likely been permanently deactivated:

Reality check: 

- Telkomsel releases inactive numbers back to their pool after 30-60 days 

- Someone else may have been assigned your number 

- Reactivation is unlikely unless you have special circumstances

Options: 

1. Try BaliSIM support (support@balisim.com)—they may have connections to help, but no guarantees 

2. Accept new eSIM may be necessary with new phone number 

3. Update Gojek/Grab with new number if needed

Cost comparison: 

- Reactivation attempt effort: High 

- Success rate: <20% 

- New eSIM cost: ~$14 USD 

Recommendation: Purchase new eSIM and move forward

Lesson learned: Set phone reminders 5 days before expiry to prevent this situation.

Validity Management Strategies by Traveler Type

Short-Term Vacationer (7-14 Days)

Strategy: Single Package Purchase

Plan: 

- Purchase 14-15 day package matching trip length 

- No extensions needed 

- Let it expire after departure (no need to maintain)

Package recommendation: 

- BaliSIM Telkomsel Bali Visitor 14-Day (10-15 GB) 

- Price: ~$12-14 USD 

- Covers entire vacation with buffer

Advantages: 

• Simple—no management required

• Cost-effective

• Set and forget

Extended Traveler (30+ Days)

Strategy: Single Large Package or Monthly Top-Ups

Option A: One-time large purchase 

• Buy 30-day package with generous data (30-50 GB) 
• Price: ~$25-35 USD 
• Works for most month-long stays

Option B: Two 15-day packages 

• Buy first package before arrival 
• Buy second package mid-trip when first is half-depleted 
• Total: ~$24-28 USD - More flexible if plans change

Recommendation: Option A if certain of 30-day stay; Option B if stay duration is flexible

Digital Nomad (60-90 Days)

Strategy: Monthly Extensions + Consider XL for IMEI

Challenge: Telkomsel IMEI registration only lasts 30 days

Solution 1: Telkomsel with monthly IMEI renewal 

• Buy 30-day package each month (3 times) 
• Each purchase renews IMEI for another 30 days 
• Total cost: ~$75-90 USD for 90 days 
• Widest coverage and best speeds

Solution 2: XL for 90-day IMEI simplicity 

• Buy XL eSIM with 90-day IMEI registration 
• Top up data packages monthly as needed 
• Total cost: ~$65-80 USD for 90 days 
• Slightly less 5G coverage but adequate

Comparison:

 

Recommendation: Telkomsel if you’re in 5G areas (Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta); XL if prioritizing IMEI simplicity over network speed.

Frequent Bali Visitor (Multiple Short Trips)

Strategy: Keep Number Alive Between Visits

Scenario: You visit Bali for 2 weeks, leave for 2 months, return for another week

Plan: 

1. First trip: Buy standard 14-day package 
2. Before leaving: Add 50,000 IDR credit (extends number 30+ days) 
3. During absence: Number stays active for 30-60 days 
4. Second trip: Simply buy new data package (same number works)

Advantages: 

• Keep same number (Gojek/Grab accounts intact)

• No IMEI re-registration needed

• Indonesian contacts remain valid

• Costs only ~$3-5 to maintain between trips

Break-even: Worth it if you return within 90 days. Beyond that, new eSIM makes more sense.

Understanding Auto-Renewal (Spoiler: It Doesn’t Exist)

Important clarification for travelers from Western countries:

Indonesian prepaid SIMs do NOT have automatic renewal. There is no: 

• Auto-billing to your credit card 
• Automatic monthly charges 
• Subscription that continues until you cancel

This is fundamentally different from US/UK/EU/AU mobile plans.

What this means: 

• You’ll never be surprised by charges

• You have complete control over spending

• Service stops exactly when package expires (no pro-rating)

• You must manually top up to continue service

• Forgetting to renew = disconnection

Mindset shift: Think of it like prepaid parking—you pay for the time you need, and when that time expires, you’re done (unless you add more).

Validity FAQs

1. Can I get a refund for unused data if my package expires?

No. Indonesian prepaid packages are non-refundable, and unused data disappears at expiry. This is standard across all providers (Telkomsel, XL, Indosat).

Strategy to avoid waste: 

• Track usage with *888# mid-trip 
• If you have excess data remaining and trip is ending, use it for large downloads over final days (Netflix offline episodes, Google Maps offline for next destination, etc.)

2. Does my validity extend automatically if I don’t use my data?

No. Validity is time-based, not usage-based. Whether you use 0 GB or 15 GB, your package expires on the same date.

Exception: Some very old SIM card systems worked on usage-based validity, but all modern eSIM and tourist packages are strictly time-based.

3. What’s the longest single validity package I can buy?

For tourists: 30 days is typically the maximum from BaliSIM’s Telkomsel packages.

For XL: 30-day data packages, but 90-day IMEI validity (you’d need to top up data monthly but IMEI stays registered).

For long-term residents: Postpaid plans offer ongoing service, but these require Indonesian identity cards (KTP) and are not available to tourists.

4. If I buy two packages at once, do validity periods stack?

It depends on the package type:

Data packages (most common): The LATER-purchased package typically overwrites the expiry date. 

Example: You have Package A expiring Jan 20. You buy Package B (30-day) on Jan 15. Your new expiry is Feb 15 (not Feb 20).

Credit (pulsa) top-ups: These ADD validity extensions. 

Example: Your number validity is Jan 20. You add 50,000 IDR credit on Jan 15. New number validity is ~Feb 20 (Jan 20 + 30 days).

Pro tip: To maximize value, time your purchases: 

• Let current package nearly expire before buying next data package 
• Add pulsa anytime to extend number validity separately

5. Can I buy a new package while my current one is still active?

Yes, and the data will stack (add together), but the expiry date will update to the new package’s validity period.

Example: - Current: 5 GB remaining, expires Jan 15 - Purchase on Jan 10: 20 GB (30-day package) - Result: 25 GB total, new expiry Feb 10

Note: You essentially “lose” the extra 5 days from your original package, but gain the data combination.

Validity Tracking Tools and Tips

Tool 1: Set Phone Reminders

Recommended: Create calendar alert 5 days before expiry

iPhone: 1. Check expiry date via *888# 2. Open Calendar app 3. Create event: “Telkomsel eSIM Expires” on expiry date 4. Set alert: 5 days before 5. Alert will remind you to top up if extending stay

Android: 1. Check expiry date via *888# 2. Open Google Calendar 3. Create reminder: “Check Telkomsel validity—top up if needed” 4. Set 5 days before expiry

Tool 2: Daily *888# Check Habit

Establish routine: Check balance every morning with your coffee

Benefits: - Tracks data consumption (are you running out faster than expected?) - Keeps expiry date top-of-mind - Takes only 5 seconds

Gamification idea: Challenge yourself to make your data last the full validity period without running out.

Tool 3: MyTelkomsel App Widget (Android Only)

Setup: 1. Install MyTelkomsel app 2. Long-press home screen > Widgets 3. Find MyTelkomsel widget 4. Drag to home screen

Result: Data balance and days remaining display on home screen without opening app

Tool 4: Spreadsheet for Multi-Trip Planning

For frequent Bali visitors, track in a simple spreadsheet:

 

Helps you: Decide whether maintaining a number between trips is cost-effective.

Conclusion: Validity Made Simple

Understanding Bali SIM validity doesn’t need to be complicated: your package lasts for a specific number of days (usually 7-30), and you can easily extend by topping up through BaliSIM.com before it expires. 

The key is proactive management—checking your expiry date with *888# regularly and topping up 3-5 days before expiration ensures you’re never caught without connectivity.

Key Takeaways:

• Validity is time-based (not usage-based)—expires on a specific date regardless of data consumed

• Two types of validity exist: data package expiry and phone number active period

• Check expiry anytime with *888# (works without internet)

• Extend easily via BaliSIM.com before expiration

• Set reminders 5 days before expiry to avoid disconnection

• Keep number alive for future trips with minimal credit top-ups

• Reactivation possible within 30 days but difficult after

Your Next Steps:

1. Check your current validity right now: Dial *888#

2. Set calendar reminder for 5 days before expiry

3. Bookmark BaliSIM top-up page for quick access when needed: balisim.com/collections/top-up

4. Download MyTelkomsel app while on WiFi for easy monitoring

Internal Links: 

• Top Up Your Telkomsel eSIM — Extend validity quickly 
• Check Your Data Balance — Monitor usage and expiry 
• Telkomsel eSIM Plans — Choose the right validity period for your trip

Never worry about unexpected disconnection—with these tools and knowledge, you’re always in control of your Bali eSIM validity.