Intent behind Indonesia’s visa crackdown is clear: the government wants to maintain order. However, its success will depend on how well they balance enforcing the rules without driving away the tourists and investors they want to attract.
Foreign tourists in Indonesia who overstay their visas or engage in illegal activities now face prison sentences of up to 20 years.
Previously, overstaying a visa could lead to a maximum of one year in prison. However, with new immigration laws, the penalty has increased to 10 years, plus an additional 10 years for serious offenses, meaning a possible 20-year sentence or even life imprisonment. This update was confirmed by Silmy Karim, Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration.
The immigration department has also launched “Operation Jagratara” to maintain Indonesia’s reputation as a safe destination and ensure tourists follow the law.
What’s Operation Jagratara?
Operation Jagratara is a nationwide effort, with a special focus on Indonesia. The operation involves stricter surveillance, immigration checkpoints, and a “zero-tolerance” policy for violators. Patrol teams, with new vehicles, are actively conducting checks in popular tourist spots like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud.
In a social media statement, Indonesia’s Immigration department said the goal of Operation Jagratara is to ensure that all foreigners follow the immigration laws. With hundreds of officers and new patrol vehicles, the operation aims to create a safe environment and prevent legal violations by foreign nationals, while keeping Indonesia attractive for tourists and investors.
Led by the Directorate General of Immigration, the operation has deployed over 125 officers, supported by 20 patrol jeeps and motorcycles, to carry out checks across Indonesia.
Why is the Focus on Bali?
Indonesia has seen a significant increase in the number of foreign deportations in 2024. Between January and the end of August, 417 foreigners were deported, which is much higher than the 335 deportations that took place last year. Many of these deportations were due to visa violations, such as tourists overstaying their visas or working illegally. Some were also involved in criminal activities.
In June, authorities arrested 103 foreigners in Tabanan Regency for running a cybercrime ring from a villa.
Bali [Indonesia] Tightens Visa Rules
To tackle overtourism, Indonesia introduced a “tourist levy” earlier this year. Tourists are now required to pay 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (about $10) upon arrival at the airport. Funds collected from this tax will be used for cultural and environmental preservation, as well as improving public services and infrastructure.
The government is also considering a two-year ban on new hotels and clubs to help preserve Bali’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, which are being affected by the growing number of visitors.
Foreign tourist arrivals to Bali rose by almost 23% in the first eight months of 2024, with 4.4 million tourists visiting, compared to 3.6 million during the same period in 2023.
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