Bali Implements Strict New Rule: Tourists Must Carry Passports at All Times Amid Visa Crackdown
In a significant move to clamp down on visa violations, Bali’s immigration authorities have introduced a new regulation requiring all foreign tourists to carry their passports and stay permits whenever they leave their accommodations. This latest measure is part of a broader crackdown initiated by immigration officials to enforce compliance with Indonesia’s immigration laws.
Launch of Regional Immigration Patrol Task Force
Earlier this month, Indonesia’s Minister for Immigration, Agus Andrianto, announced the deployment of a dedicated Bali Regional Immigration Patrol Task Force. Comprising 100 officers, this task force is charged with monitoring key tourist areas across the island, including popular destinations such as Canggu, Seminyak, Kerobokan, Sanur, Benoa, Uluwatu, Bingin, Mertasari, Kuta, Nusa Dua, Ubud, and Legian.
Equipped with uniforms, body cameras, and patrol vehicles, officers from this task force conduct random spot checks to verify that foreign nationals comply with immigration regulations. The intensified patrols aim to deter visa overstays and other violations that have seen a recent rise in Bali.
Random Checks and Enforcement Actions
Recent footage released by the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office showcased these on-the-ground inspections taking place in tourist hotspots like Nusa Dua. During these checks, immigration officers question tourists regarding possession of their passports. While some tourists admitted to leaving their documents in hotels, no immediate fines or penalties have yet been imposed.
A spokesperson from the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office explained, “One of the important roles of immigration officers in the field is to conduct random checks on foreign nationals in Bali, especially within the operational jurisdiction of the Ngurah Rai office. These checks are conducted to ensure all foreign nationals abide by immigration administration rules and regulations.”
Response to Rising Visa Violations
Officials have emphasized that the stepping-up of patrols and mandatory passport carriage are direct responses to the increasing number of visa infractions on the island. These measures are designed to improve accountability and streamline enforcement to safeguard Bali’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.
Moreover, immigration authorities have hinted that future inspections may also include checks for the Bali Tourism Tax Levy payment, although this responsibility remains primarily with the provincial government’s Tourism Task Force.
What Tourists Should Know
Visitors planning to travel around Bali should ensure they carry their passports and relevant stay permits at all times to avoid complications during these random inspections. Tourists are encouraged to stay informed about local regulations and cooperate with immigration personnel to facilitate smoother travel experiences.
This heightened vigilance reflects Bali’s ongoing commitment to maintaining legal compliance and ensuring the safety and security of both visitors and residents alike. Tourists are advised to follow official guidelines and carry valid identification documents during their entire stay on the island.
Summary: Bali’s immigration authorities have introduced a mandatory rule requiring tourists to carry passports and stay permits whenever leaving their accommodation. This comes amid increased patrols by a 100-strong Regional Immigration Patrol Task Force deployed to monitor key tourist areas and combat rising visa violations. Random checks have been conducted without immediate fines, but officials warn of strict enforcement going forward.
Add a comment