Foreigners in Bali Urged to Carry Passports Amid Intensified Visa Crackdown
In a recent push to enforce immigration regulations more strictly, foreign visitors to Bali have been advised to carry their passports at all times when venturing around the Indonesian resort island. This reminder comes alongside a heightened crackdown on visa violations, following reports of an increase in unauthorized stays earlier this year.
Increased Immigration Checks Across Bali
Local immigration authorities have released videos showing officers conducting spot checks on tourists, requesting them to present their travel documents on the spot. These checks have become more frequent as part of a new initiative aimed at curbing illegal activities related to visa breaches.
Recently, Indonesia introduced an Immigration Patrol Task Force specifically assigned to Bali with a mission to “suppress illegal acts” and address violations by foreign nationals. The task force is seen as a direct response to President Prabowo Subianto’s directive emphasizing the importance of maintaining security and stability in Bali, recognized as one of Indonesia’s most prominent tourist destinations.
Deployment of Officers to Tourist Hotspots
The task force consists of approximately 100 uniformed officers outfitted with body cameras and safety vests. They actively patrol key tourist locations, including popular surfer spots like Canggu and Seminyak, the cultural center of Ubud, and coastal areas such as Jimbaran.
A notable recent example of these operations was captured in a social media video released by Bali’s Ngurah Rai immigration office. The footage depicts officers at Nusa Dua Beach halting foreigners for document verification during routine spot checks.
Government’s Efforts to Ensure Compliance
Agus Andrianto, Indonesia’s Minister of Immigration and Correction, emphasized the purpose of the task force in a formal statement. By monitoring foreign visitors more closely, the government aims to ensure compliance with immigration laws and preserve Bali’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.
Tourists and expatriates are encouraged to remain vigilant regarding their visa status and to carry valid identification to avoid potential penalties or disruptions during their stay.
Summary
The intensified patrols and visa checks are part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to strengthen immigration enforcement. Visitors to Bali should anticipate increased scrutiny and be prepared to present their passports whenever requested, helping to facilitate smoother interactions with immigration authorities while enjoying their time on the island.
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