Bali Immigration Cracks Down on Foreigners Working on Tourist Visas
Bali, Indonesia – In a renewed effort to enforce immigration laws, Bali’s Singaraja Immigration Office has intensified its crackdown on foreigners working illegally while on tourist visas. Recent operations have resulted in the deportation of three foreign nationals caught engaging in work activities that their visitor permits do not authorize.
Deportations of Foreign Nationals Working Illegally
The three individuals deported include AKG, a 48-year-old Indian citizen; RN, a 44-year-old Singaporean; and ST, a 34-year-old Chinese national. Investigations revealed that AKG and RN were conducting yoga classes at a villa in Buleleng Regency, not only organizing but also instructing sessions, activities prohibited under their visitor stay permits. Meanwhile, ST was found installing manufacturing equipment at a factory in Karangasem Regency in East Bali, and he also trained company employees in machinery operation.
Visa Types and Legal Restrictions
Authorities clarified that both AKG and ST entered Indonesia on Visas on Arrival (VOA), while RN used a Visa-Free Visit (BVK) facility. Indonesian Immigration Law strictly limits the use of these visas to visiting purposes only and prohibits any form of work or business activities. The head of the Singaraja Immigration Office, Anak Agung Gde Kusuma Putra, emphasized that compliance with immigration regulations is mandatory for all foreign nationals in Indonesia.
Ongoing Enforcement and Public Involvement
The three deportees have been blacklisted from future entry into Indonesia. Putra stressed that immigration officers will continue enhancing surveillance across Bali, including rural and less-touristy regions, collaborating with local governments, law enforcement, and monitoring teams. He urged the public to report any suspected violations to facilitate swift action.
Policy Context and Future Implications
This crackdown forms part of a broader government policy to ensure foreigners respect visa conditions while also balancing convenience for tourists and investors. Indonesian immigration authorities remind visitors that even unpaid work-related activities violate visa terms if they yield economic benefits or involve promotional efforts. Travelers are encouraged to consult the Official Indonesia eVisa website to determine the appropriate visa for their intended activities.
The heightened enforcement reflects Bali Immigration’s commitment to uphold laws amid increasing cases of unauthorized employment by foreigners on tourist and socio-cultural permits, signaling that such violations will face stringent consequences going forward.
BaliThisWeek brings you daily snapshots of life in Bali — from local updates and island stories to events, places, and community moments.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @balithisweek
Daily news: balithisweek.net/news/
Explore Bali: balithisweek.net/explore/
Contact us: contact@balithisweek.net
Add a comment