During an operation called "Jagrathara" across Indonesia, including Bali, thousands of immigration officers were mobilized. The main goal was to identify foreigners violating the law.
Safar M. Godam, Director of Immigration Supervision and Law, reported that officers conducted random checks on 1,293 foreigners at 507 checkpoints. According to him, the primary focus was on activities that might involve immigration violations, such as the improper use of residency permits, working without permission, and engaging in activities that do not align with the declared purpose of their visit.
“The Jagrathara operation was aimed at maintaining security and order in the country. We will continue to intensify surveillance and actions against immigration violations,” said Godam.
Across the country, 185 violations were identified during the operation, requiring further investigation. This represents more than 10% of the total number of foreigners inspected.
“We will take firm action against any detected violations. Our goal is to have a deterrent effect while also creating a welcoming environment for those who comply with the rules,” Godam added.
He confirmed that the most common violation was overstaying. Next were foreigners engaging in activities not permitted by their visas.
In Singaraja alone, nine foreigners were caught violating the law. Hendra Setiawan, head of the Singaraja Immigration Office, confirmed that among those detained were three Australians, along with nationals from China, Germany, Japan, and Romania. Setiawan stated that all violators were found during routine local random checks. However, she urged the public to assist law enforcement by reporting any violations to a special hotline.
Immigration offices continue to post hotline numbers and WhatsApp contacts on social media, encouraging the public to report any suspicious activities involving foreigners.
According to expat reports, mass checks of foreigners are still ongoing in Bali. Visa agencies advise always carrying your passport when leaving home. If you have an e-visa, it’s recommended to carry a printed copy or at least a screenshot.
Even holding a KITAS is not a guarantee of avoiding scrutiny, as immigration officers may still have questions. Visa agency LegalIndonesia suggests reviewing all your documents carefully: “It’s no secret that immigration checks in Bali are currently at an all-time high.”
People with KITAS who do not reside at the address listed are particularly at risk. According to Article 71 of the Immigration Law, foreigners residing in Indonesia must provide all necessary information about themselves and their families and report any changes in marital status, citizenship, employment, guarantors, or address to the local immigration office.
It is strongly recommended to verify the address listed on your KITAS and update it if it no longer matches your current residence. This can be done either at the immigration office or with our assistance.
Here's what those who have already encountered the raids are saying:
“They’re nitpicking everything:
- The address on your KITAS doesn’t match where you live or work;
- Helping a friend find accommodation/bike = working, trying to make money;
- Checking social media/chats;
- Reports come not only from Indonesians but from other foreigners too.”
Bali.Live advises exercising caution and not violating visa regulations. At best, it will end in deportation, but there’s also a chance you could end up in immigration detention.
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