Quick Answer
Yes, you can make international calls from your Telkomsel eSIM in Bali by adding credit to your account and using the 01017 budget calling prefix, which offers up to 80% savings compared to standard rates.
To call internationally, dial 01017 + country code + phone number (e.g., 01017 1 555 123 4567 for USA).
If you haven't set up your Telkomsel Visitor SIM yet, start there first — it includes a local Indonesian number you'll need to make and receive calls in Bali.
You'll need to top up your eSIM with calling credit through Balisim Top-Up page, as most data-only plans don't include voice minutes. Not sure how much data your trip needs overall? Check our Bali Data Usage Guide before you buy.
Introduction: Staying in Touch While Exploring Indonesia
Whether you need to call a hotel in Jakarta to confirm a reservation, contact your bank back home about a card issue, or simply check in with family who don't use WhatsApp, having the ability to make voice calls from your Telkomsel eSIM is invaluable during your Bali adventure.
While most international communication happens via internet-based apps today (WhatsApp, FaceTime, Telegram), there are situations where a traditional phone call is necessary — and often more reliable. Local businesses in Bali frequently prefer phone calls over email, government agencies require voice communication, and some emergencies demand instant verbal contact.
This guide explains everything you need to know about making local and international calls with your Balisim Telkomsel eSIM: how to add credit, the cheapest calling methods, dialing formats, and smart strategies to minimize costs while staying connected.
Do Balisim eSIMs Include Voice Calling?
Short answer: They CAN make calls, but voice service isn't included by default.
Balisim's Telkomsel eSIM plans are primarily data-focused packages — perfect for Google Maps, social media, Gojek, Grab, and messaging. However, every Telkomsel eSIM comes with an Indonesian phone number (+62) that can make and receive calls and SMS once you add calling credit.
When you activate a Balisim eSIM, you receive:
- A unique Indonesian mobile number (format: +62 8XX-XXXX-XXXX)
- It can receive calls and SMS immediately — incoming is free
- It can make calls and send SMS after adding credit
Need this number specifically for Gojek and Grab registration? Read our guide on setting up ride-hailing apps with a Bali SIM →
Where to find your Telkomsel number:
iPhone: Settings → Cellular → [Telkomsel eSIM] → Phone Number
Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIM cards → [Telkomsel] → Phone number
Or dial: *808# to receive an SMS with your number
How to Add Calling Credit to Your Telkomsel eSIM
Method 1: Top Up via Balisim.com (Recommended)
Easiest for international travelers — English interface, international payment, instant delivery.
- Visit the Balisim Telkomsel Top-Up page
- Select your credit amount (starting from 20,000 IDR / ~$1.30 USD)
- Enter your Telkomsel number (+62 format)
- Pay via credit card or PayPal
- Credit appears within 2–5 minutes
Pro tip: Start with 50,000 IDR (~$3.20 USD) to test before adding more. Check your balance anytime with *888#.
Method 2: MyTelkomsel App
Download "MyTelkomsel" from App Store or Google Play → navigate to "Pulsa" section → choose amount → pay via credit card, GoPay, or OVO. If payment fails, use Balisim.com instead — some methods require Indonesian bank accounts.
Method 3: Physical Top-Up in Bali
Available at Indomaret, Alfamart, Circle K, and street vendors with "Pulsa" signs. Say: "Top up Telkomsel, lima puluh ribu" (50,000 IDR). Pay cash. Receive SMS confirmation within 1–2 minutes.
How Much Credit Do You Need?
| Use Case | Recommended Credit | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency backup | 20,000 IDR (~$1.30) | 2–3 international calls via 01017 |
| Occasional calling | 50,000 IDR (~$3.20) | 5–8 int'l calls, 20+ local calls |
| Regular use | 100,000 IDR (~$6.40) | 15–20 int'l calls, extensive local |
| Heavy calling | 200,000+ IDR (~$13) | Unlimited local, 30+ international |
Credit expires based on your last top-up amount — larger top-ups extend validity (100,000 IDR = 30–60 days additional validity).
How to Make International Calls: Two Methods
Method 1: 01017 Budget Prefix ✅ Recommended
Telkomsel's 01017 prefix delivers rates up to 80% cheaper than standard international dialing — same call quality, no setup required.
Format: 01017 + Country Code + Phone Number (no + sign, no leading 0 after country code)
| Destination | Standard Format | 01017 Budget Format |
|---|---|---|
| USA Mobile | +1 555 123 4567 | 01017 1 555 123 4567 |
| Australia Mobile | +61 412 345 678 | 01017 61 412 345 678 |
| UK Landline | +44 20 1234 5678 | 01017 44 20 1234 5678 |
| Singapore | +65 8123 4567 | 01017 65 8123 4567 |
| Germany Mobile | +49 151 23456789 | 01017 49 151 23456789 |
| Feature | 01017 Budget | Standard IDD |
|---|---|---|
| Rate to USA/Canada | ~1,000 IDR/min ($0.06) | ~5,000 IDR/min ($0.32) |
| Rate to Europe | ~1,500 IDR/min ($0.10) | ~7,000 IDR/min ($0.45) |
| Rate to Australia | ~1,200 IDR/min ($0.08) | ~6,000 IDR/min ($0.38) |
| Setup Required | None — just dial | None — just dial |
Savings example — 10-minute call to USA:
Via 01017: 10,000 IDR (~$0.64 USD)
Standard dialing: 50,000 IDR (~$3.20 USD)
You save: 80%
Method 2: Standard International Dialing
If you forget 01017, standard dialing still works: + Country Code + Number. Costs 4–6x more per minute — always try 01017 first.
Complete 01017 Dialing Reference (Popular Destinations)
| Country | Code | 01017 Format | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 1 | 01017 1 XXX XXX XXXX | 01017 1 555 123 4567 |
| Canada | 1 | 01017 1 XXX XXX XXXX | 01017 1 416 555 1234 |
| United Kingdom | 44 | 01017 44 XXXX XXXXXX | 01017 44 20 7946 0958 |
| Australia | 61 | 01017 61 XXX XXX XXX | 01017 61 412 345 678 |
| New Zealand | 64 | 01017 64 XX XXX XXXX | 01017 64 21 123 4567 |
| Singapore | 65 | 01017 65 XXXX XXXX | 01017 65 9123 4567 |
| Malaysia | 60 | 01017 60 XX XXXX XXXX | 01017 60 12 345 6789 |
| Thailand | 66 | 01017 66 XX XXX XXXX | 01017 66 81 234 5678 |
| Philippines | 63 | 01017 63 XXX XXX XXXX | 01017 63 917 123 4567 |
| China | 86 | 01017 86 1XX XXXX XXXX | 01017 86 138 0013 8000 |
| Hong Kong | 852 | 01017 852 XXXX XXXX | 01017 852 9123 4567 |
| Japan | 81 | 01017 81 XX XXXX XXXX | 01017 81 90 1234 5678 |
| South Korea | 82 | 01017 82 XX XXXX XXXX | 01017 82 10 1234 5678 |
| India | 91 | 01017 91 XXXXX XXXXX | 01017 91 98765 43210 |
| Germany | 49 | 01017 49 1XX XXXXXXX | 01017 49 151 2345 6789 |
| France | 33 | 01017 33 X XX XX XX XX | 01017 33 6 12 34 56 78 |
| Italy | 39 | 01017 39 XXX XXX XXXX | 01017 39 333 123 4567 |
| Spain | 34 | 01017 34 XXX XXX XXX | 01017 34 612 345 678 |
| Netherlands | 31 | 01017 31 X XXXX XXXX | 01017 31 6 1234 5678 |
| Brazil | 55 | 01017 55 XX XXXXX XXXX | 01017 55 11 91234 5678 |
| South Africa | 27 | 01017 27 XX XXX XXXX | 01017 27 82 123 4567 |
Making Local Calls Within Indonesia
Local mobile numbers: Dial 0 + number (e.g. 0812 3456 7890). Cost: ~300–500 IDR/minute.
Bali landlines: Dial 0361 + number. Example: 0361 234567 for a Denpasar hotel.
| City | Area Code | Dialing Example |
|---|---|---|
| Jakarta | 21 | 021 5551234 |
| Surabaya | 31 | 031 7654321 |
| Yogyakarta | 274 | 0274 123456 |
| Lombok (Mataram) | 370 | 0370 234567 |
Planning to explore remote areas of Bali like Amed, Nusa Penida, or North Bali? Telkomsel has the strongest coverage in rural Bali — especially important when making local calls in areas where XL signal drops.
Smart Calling Strategy: Voice vs. WhatsApp
Use Telkomsel voice calls (01017) when:
- Calling Indonesian hotels, restaurants, tour operators — they prefer traditional calls
- Emergencies requiring immediate verbal response
- Calling government offices, embassies, banks
- In remote Bali areas with weak data but good signal — check current conditions in your area before heading to remote spots
- When recipient doesn't use smartphones
Use WhatsApp/VoIP when:
- Calling international contacts who use apps — free over data or WiFi
- Long personal conversations — saves pulsa credit
- You have stable WiFi at your hotel, villa, or coworking space
- Group calls or video calls
Cost comparison — 30-minute international call:
| Method | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| WhatsApp on WiFi | Free | Best for personal calls |
| 01017 Telkomsel | ~30,000 IDR (~$1.90) | Reliable anywhere |
| Standard IDD | ~150,000 IDR (~$9.60) | 5x more expensive than 01017 |
| Hotel phone | ~200,000+ IDR (~$13+) | Extremely expensive |
Not sure if your data plan is big enough to cover WhatsApp calls and daily usage throughout your trip? Use our Bali Data Usage Guide to calculate exactly how much data you need — broken down by activity including VoIP calls, Maps, Instagram, and hotspot use.
How to Check Your Remaining Credit Balance
Fastest — USSD code: Dial *888# → shows credit balance, data remaining, plan expiry. Works without internet.
SMS method: Send "INFO" to 3636 → detailed SMS reply within 10–30 seconds.
MyTelkomsel app: Home screen shows credit, data remaining, and validity countdown.
Running low on data (separate from calling credit)? Top up Telkomsel data here
Receiving Calls and SMS
Incoming calls: FREE. No credit needed — works immediately after eSIM activation.
Your number format for others to call:
From Indonesia: 0XXX-XXXX-XXXX
From international: +62 XXX-XXXX-XXXX (replace leading 0 with +62)
Incoming SMS: FREE. You'll receive verification codes for Gojek, Grab, banking apps, and booking confirmations automatically.
See Why You Need a Local eSIM in Bali
Outgoing SMS: Requires credit — domestic ~300 IDR, international ~1,500–3,000 IDR. Use WhatsApp instead for messaging — it's free over your data connection.
Emergency Numbers in Bali — Save These Now
These numbers work without credit on any Indonesian SIM:
- 112 — Universal emergency (police, ambulance, fire)
- 110 — Police
- 118 — Ambulance
- 113 — Fire Department
- +62 361 754599 — Bali Tourist Police
- +62 361 763753 — Ngurah Rai Airport Police
- +62 361 227911 — BIMC Hospital Kuta (24/7)
- +62 361 3003030 — Siloam Hospital Denpasar
- +62 361 761263 — Sanglah Hospital (public)
Embassy contacts:
Australian Consulate Bali: +62 361 241118
US Consular Agency Bali: +62 361 233605
British Consulate (covers Bali): +62 21 2356 5200
Canadian Embassy Jakarta (covers Bali): +62 21 2550 7800
Save these before you need them. Signal matters in emergencies — Telkomsel has the most reliable coverage across Bali, including remote areas where emergencies are more likely to happen. Also check the weather before heading to remote areas — Bali weather guide are updated every 3 days with BMKG data.
Troubleshooting Call Issues
Problem: "Call Failed"
→ Check balance: *888# → top up if zero
→ Verify 01017 format — no + sign, no leading 0 after country code
→ New eSIMs may have 2–4 hour delay before international calling activates
Problem: Poor call quality
→ Move to better signal area
→ Switch 5G to 4G: iPhone → Settings → Cellular → Voice & Data → LTE
→ Restart phone to refresh network connection
Problem: Can't call local Indonesian numbers
→ Always include leading 0: ✅ 0812 3456 7890, not ❌ 812 3456 7890
Problem: No audio on connected call
iPhone: Settings → Cellular → [Telkomsel eSIM] → enable "Voice & Data"
Android: Settings → Network → SIM cards → Telkomsel → enable "Use SIM for voice calls"
Frequently Asked Questions
Will making calls drain my data package?
No. Traditional voice calls use the cellular voice network, not your data balance. Only VoIP calls (WhatsApp, FaceTime) use mobile data — ~1–2MB per minute for voice, 5–8MB per minute for video. See our full data usage breakdown here.
Can I use my Telkomsel number for WhatsApp verification?
Yes. Your +62 number receives SMS verification codes from most global services.
Read our guide on Gojek and Grab setup
Can I call toll-free numbers (1-800) from Bali?
Generally no — international toll-free numbers only work for domestic callers. Look up the company's regular international number and call via 01017.
How long does pulsa credit remain valid?
20,000 IDR = 7 days | 50,000 IDR = 30 days | 100,000 IDR = 60 days. Top up before expiry to keep the number active.
Is it cheaper to call from Indonesia or have someone call me?
Calling FROM Indonesia via 01017 is almost always cheaper. A 10-minute call Indonesia → USA costs ~$0.64 via 01017, vs $2–$30 from most US carriers. Ask family to use WhatsApp instead.
Does weather affect call quality in Bali?
Heavy rain and storms can occasionally affect signal — especially in highland areas like Kintamani or North Bali. Check Bali weather before heading to remote areas where call quality could matter in an emergency.
Conclusion
Making international and local calls from your Balisim Telkomsel eSIM is straightforward: add credit, use 01017 for international savings, and dial *888# to check your balance anytime.
Smart strategy: WhatsApp on WiFi for personal calls, 01017 for local businesses and official calls. Keep 50,000–100,000 IDR in credit and you're covered for any situation.
Key takeaways:
- Add credit via Balisim Top-Up page — easiest for international travelers
- Always use 01017 prefix for international calls — 80% savings
- Dial *888# to check credit balance anytime
- Incoming calls and SMS are free
- Emergency number 112 works without any credit
- Use WhatsApp over WiFi for long personal calls
