Indonesia Detains 62 Foreigners in Bali Visa Crackdown

Indonesian authorities arrested 62 foreign nationals in Bali for visa violations including overstays and illegal employment, officials said.

INSTAGRAM

DENPASAR — Tuesday (May 5, 2026) The operation, known as Dharma Dewata, targeted high-risk areas including Denpasar, Singaraja and Ngurah Rai.

Officials said those detained were suspected of overstaying permits, submitting falsified visa data, or using tourist status to cover unauthorized work and business activity.

“The presence of foreigners working illegally must be cracked down on to maintain the local economy,” said Felucia Sengky Ratna, head of Bali’s immigration office.

The detainees are being questioned and could face detention, deportation and re-entry bans, authorities said.

The crackdown aligns with a broader national push to tighten oversight of foreign nationals, particularly in Bali, Indonesia’s main tourism hub.

“I have ordered all ranks to act decisively without compromise,” said Hendarsam Marantoko.

“We welcome tourists and investors, but those who disregard Indonesian law must comply or leave.”

Officials said enforcement is being strengthened through field patrols and integrated digital monitoring systems.

“We continue to strengthen supervision to detect potential violations as early as possible,” said Yuldi Yusman.