The Association of Indonesian Tourist Guides (HPI) in Bali is sounding the alarm: Unlicensed foreign tour guides and workers are increasingly active on the island.
According to the head of the association, I Nyoman Nuarta, the situation is getting out of control. Illegal workers undermine Bali's image, create unfair competition, and even have the potential to provoke conflicts. In protest, accredited Bali guides have repeatedly held rallies, made public statements, and sent official letters to the authorities.
The Bali police have also expressed their support. On August 15, a round table was organized involving the Bali police and the Association of Tourist Guides. The Director of the Bali Police Intelligence and Security Division, Commissioner Syahbuddin, promised strict measures: “We will enhance monitoring of foreigners and support actions against illegal guides and workers.”
Words are already being backed by action. In February 2025, immigration services at Ngurah Rai Airport detained two Polish citizens who, with only a tourist visa (VoA), offered guide services. They were found with signs for airport meetings and other materials confirming illegal activities. After the investigation, the foreigners were deported.
Such stories are not uncommon. In 2024, 412 people were deported from Bali, significantly more than in 2023 (335 deportations). In the first quarter of 2025 alone, 128 foreigners were deported for violating visa regulations or engaging in illegal work. Of these, 63 were expelled in just a couple of months during the special operation “Wira Waspada.”
Illegal guides might be cheaper, but if something goes wrong, such a guide will simply disappear to avoid problems with the authorities, leaving you to resolve issues on your own. MyBaliTrips works exclusively with officially accredited guides. This ensures that your tours are not only interesting but also safe and secure.
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