Under these updated regulations, visa offenses that previously carried sentences of six months to a year in prison can now carry a prison sentence of up to 20 years.

Speaking at a press briefing, Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration Silmy Karim said: “We want to protect our immigration system and ensure that tourists respect our laws. The new rules are meant to send a strong message.”

Operation Jagratara and law enforcement

To enforce the new visa regulations, the Indonesian Immigration Ministry launched “Operation Jagratara”. This operation aims to crack down on foreign nationals who break visa rules. Already, 400 people have been deported this year for violating immigration laws, and more deportations are expected as the operation continues.

In addition to deportations, the government has deployed 125 immigration officers to Bali, one of the country’s top tourist destinations.

Immigration officers on the ground

These immigration officers, who patrol Bali in 20 jeeps and 20 motorbikes, are responsible for monitoring tourist activities and ensuring compliance with visa rules. Officers were also given the authority to carry firearms for protection, particularly in situations involving dangerous transnational criminals.

“These regulations not only target visa violations, but also transnational crime. Our agents must be equipped to deal with these threats,” Karim explained, justifying the decision to arm immigration agents.

Impact on tourists and locals

For law-abiding tourists adhering to the standard 30-day visa on arrival or the extended 60-day visa, these stricter regulations will have no impact. Karim reassured travelers, saying: “As long as you follow the visa rules, these changes will not affect you.”

However, for those who break the visa law, the consequences are much more serious. The government is committed to ensuring that the new rules improve the safety of its citizens and tourists by strengthening border controls and monitoring traveler flows. Plans are also in place to increase the number of immigration checkpoints across the country, allowing for more efficient tracking of people entering and leaving Indonesia.

How do Indonesian visa laws compare to other countries?

Indonesia’s new visa regulations are part of a global trend in which many countries are implementing stricter immigration laws and imposing harsh penalties for violations. Here are some countries with strict immigration rules:

Singapore: Overstaying a visa can result in fines, imprisonment of up to six months, and caning in extreme cases.

United Arab Emirates: Visa violators face detention, daily fines and immediate deportation.

Saudi Arabia: Overstaying can result in heavy fines, imprisonment and a permanent ban on re-entering the country.

Australia: Repeated visa violations can result in detention, deportation and a ban on re-entry.

United Kingdom: People who have overstayed their visa may be deported and prohibited from returning. Employers who hire illegal workers can be fined up to £20,000 per person.

First publication: October 15, 2024 | 12:48 p.m. STI