Bali Immigration Officers Conduct Street Checks in Visa Overstay Crackdown
A recent video circulating on social media has captured Indonesian immigration officers stopping tourists on the streets of Bali as part of an intensified crackdown on visa overstayers and illegal workers. The footage, shared on a local community news platform, shows uniformed immigration personnel in safety vests questioning foreign visitors in Ubud, one of Bali’s most popular tourist areas.
“We’re on routine patrol and we want to check your passport and your stay permit,” an officer can be heard telling a group of travellers. This street-level enforcement is being carried out by a task force of approximately 100 immigration officers who have been conducting random checks in several well-known tourist hubs, including Canggu, Seminyak, Ubud, Uluwatu, Bingin, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran over the past few months.
Purpose of the Task Force
The task force was established following directives from Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to ensure stability and security in Bali, a key destination for international tourists. Indonesian Minister for Immigration Agus Andrianto explained that the operation aims to suppress immigration violations and restore a sense of security for both locals and visitors.
Immigration officers, some equipped with body cameras, have been patrolling areas with high concentrations of foreign nationals. Their checks are not limited to tourists on the streets; they also conduct inspections of businesses such as motorbike rentals, nightclubs, and beauty salons to verify that foreign workers hold appropriate visas and that enterprises are operating legally.
Visa Overstay Penalties and Requirements
Tourists found overstaying their visas by less than 60 days typically face a fine of IDR 1 million (approximately AUD 92) for each day overstayed. For those staying beyond 60 days, the penalties increase significantly and may include detention, deportation, and blacklisting from re-entry into Indonesia.
Under Indonesia’s Immigration Law No. 6 of 2011, Article 71, foreigners are legally required to present immigration documents upon request by officials. Although the Bali Times reports that non-compliance has often resulted in verbal warnings, recent enforcement efforts suggest a more stringent approach. In the video, one tourist was asked to show his documents via a photo on his phone after admitting he did not have them physically on hand.
New Entry Procedures for Visitors
Since October 1, 2025, Bali has implemented new entry procedures requiring international visitors to complete an ‘All Indonesia’ declaration card within three days before arrival. This online form collects personal information and travel details, replacing previous separate health and customs declarations with a single consolidated process. Upon completion, travellers receive a QR code that must be presented upon arrival in Bali.
The Indonesian government’s toughened stance on visa compliance underscores the importance of following immigration regulations while visiting Bali. Tourists are encouraged to ensure their paperwork is in order to avoid fines or other penalties during their stay.
Conclusion
The immigration task force’s street patrols and business inspections are part of a broader effort to crack down on visa overstayers and illegal workers, promoting a safer environment for the island’s residents and tourists alike. Visitors to Bali are advised to comply with all immigration rules and prepare for potential checks as the government reinforces its commitment to secure and regulated tourism.
For travellers planning a trip to Bali, staying informed about immigration regulations and entry requirements is essential to ensure a smooth and trouble-free visit.
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