The Minister of Justice and Human Rights, Andi Agtas, announced the launch of an investigation aimed at identifying foreigners who abuse visas on arrival (VOA, e-VOA), pre-investment visas (D12), and investment visas (KITAS). The focus is primarily on those who seek to stay on the island longer by using these documents.
These three visa categories have clear rules regarding which activities are permitted and which are not. However, not everyone follows these rules. Some foreigners run illegal businesses, fail to pay taxes as digital nomads, or violate the law in other ways. This is why authorities are raising the issue of reviewing the rules for issuing these visas, which are often used by foreigners to bypass local legislation. Changes could include making the process more complicated and increasing the price.
It is believed that pre-investment visas (D12), valid for 12 months, are the most frequently abused by expats. This visa is attractive because it allows a stay of up to 180 days without having to leave the country, compared to 60 days with a VOA. However, under this visa, in addition to traveling, a person may only hold business meetings and conduct market research, essentially preparing for future investments. Earning money, whether through employment or business, is prohibited under this visa.
“We requested tighter control over the activities of foreign citizens who may encounter issues with their immigration documents. On one hand, we need investment. On the other hand, we hope for investments that will not cause harm to our economy or Bali, in particular,” said Minister Agtas.
The official cited an example of a Romanian citizen who was detained and deported by the Singaraja immigration office for working as a diving instructor. It turned out that he was in the country on a VOA, meaning he did not have the right to earn money from training.
His activities were uncovered during Operation “Jagratara,” in which thousands of Indonesian immigration officers conducted surprise checks on foreigners. In two days, inspectors made 185 arrests. The list of violators included tour guides, photographers, yoga instructors, retreat organizers, and real estate agents, all of whom were conducting their business without proper permits.
This experience once again showed officials that there are hundreds of foreign violators in the country, prompting renewed discussions about tightening the rules. However, there is no consensus yet among the authorities. In fact, there was even talk earlier of eliminating visa fees for tourists from countries with the largest influx of visitors.
Since the beginning of the year, a total of 1,503 people have been deported from Indonesia. This figure represents a 135.21% increase compared to 2023, when 639 foreigners were expelled during the same period. Of these 1,500 lawbreakers, 378 were deported from Bali.
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