Initially, the newly designed Indonesian passport was scheduled to be introduced in conjunction with the country’s 80th Independence Day on August 17, 2025. However, on July 17, 2025, the government announced that the launch had to be postponed until an unspecified date.
So, what is the reason behind this delay?
Comparison: Current Indonesian Passport vs. New Version
For many people, the change in the Indonesian passport might seem noticeable only in its cover color. However, the update goes beyond just outward appearance. The government has also incorporated new visual elements, enhanced security features, and stronger symbols reflecting national identity.
Here’s a comparison between the current Indonesian passport and the upcoming version set to be launched.
Cover Color
The most striking difference lies in the cover color. The current passport has a turquoise green cover with gold lettering—a color commonly used by several Muslim-majority countries like Indonesia.
Meanwhile, the new passport features a bold red cover with white lettering—a choice that directly represents the Indonesian national flag, red and white.
Interior Page Design
Previously, each page of the passport displayed illustrations of Indonesia’s unique flora, fauna, and landscapes. The new version takes a more culturally rooted approach, with each page adorned by traditional fabric motifs from 33 regions across Indonesia.
Interestingly, these batik patterns change color when viewed under ultraviolet light.
Security Features and Material
The current Indonesian passport already uses durable polycarbonate-based material that is hard to counterfeit. However, the new version includes more advanced security features.
One notable improvement is the use of fluorescent and infrared ink, which can only be seen under specific lighting. Additionally, the passport’s stitching now uses three colors—red, white, and blue—not only enhancing security but also adding symbolic meaning.
All these updates are designed to ensure the Indonesian passport complies with international security standards set by the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization).
Emblem and Text Placement
In the current passport, the Garuda Pancasila emblem is placed in the center, with the text “Republik Indonesia” above it, followed by “Paspor” and “Passport” below. At the very bottom is the e-passport logo, indicating the use of electronic passport technology.
In the new version, the Garuda emblem is moved to the top right corner. The text “Republik Indonesia” is placed directly below it, followed by the arrangement of “Paspor”, “Passport”, and the e-passport logo, which now appears more structured and tidy at the bottom.
Interestingly, the new design also features a wastra Nusantara fabric motif on the left side of the cover. This motif symbolizes the diversity of cultures, ethnicities, races, and groups that unite in Indonesian society.
Reasons for the Delay in Launching the New Indonesian Passport
Originally, the new red-and-white passport design was scheduled for release on August 17, 2025, to coincide with Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day. However, in mid-July, the Directorate General of Immigration decided to postpone the launch indefinitely.
This decision was driven by two main factors:
Budget Efficiency
The government is following Presidential Instruction No. 1 of 2025, which emphasizes cost-saving measures across ministries and agencies. In the current economic climate, the passport launch was postponed to redirect funds toward more urgent immigration service and system priorities.
Public Feedback
Since the new passport design was introduced on August 17, 2024, the Immigration Office has monitored public responses on social media and analyzed more than 1,600 posts.
The results showed that many people actually prioritized improvements in passport functionality and security—such as better digital data protection and ease of use abroad—over changes in its appearance.
Due to these two reasons, the government has decided to focus on strengthening the existing passport system. Minister of Immigration and Corrections, Agus Andrianto, stated that the government is currently developing a long-term plan to enhance digital security and make immigration services more efficient.
