Around a hundred armed agents are currently deployed on this very popular island to check that everyone is in compliance.
Do you dream of settling in Bali, enjoying the heavenly beaches and tropical climate all year round? Be careful, living on this idyllic island of Indonesia can quickly turn into a nightmare if you do not respect certain obligations. Failing to take an essential administrative formality seriously could cost you dearly. In the worst case, the penalty can be up to 20 years in prison.
Every year, thousands of people arrive in Bali. Some succumb to the charm of the island and decide to settle down for an indefinite period. But heaven has its rules, and Indonesia has stepped up controls to ensure expats and tourists stay within the legal framework. Since the entry into force of a new law, the duration of visas has been under close surveillance. Until a few years ago, visa overstays were often tolerated or simply punished with a fine. But all that has changed.
From now on, the country no longer jokes with illegal stays. Operation Jagratara, set up by the government, aims to crack down on abuses. Expulsions, hefty fines, and for the most serious cases, a prison sentence of up to 20 years is provided for offenders. In short, Bali is no longer a lawless zone for tourists who think they can stay there indefinitely.
The authorities have spared no expense in enforcing this law. More than 100 agents have been deployed to the island. They patrol on motorbikes or jeeps, ready to check that stays comply with the rules in force. The officials responsible for these controls are also equipped with weapons, because they are confronted with sometimes dangerous situations with cross-border criminals. You will have understood, it is better to be in compliance. Visa on arrival allows you to stay in Bali for 30 days. This visa can be renewed once for an additional 30 days, but beyond that, the Directorate General of Immigration indicates that offenders face up to 20 years in prison. Just that!
Therefore, it is essential to respect deadlines when staying on the Island of the Gods. So be sure to renew your visa on time or leave the country when it has expired. A rule that it is no longer possible to neglect, at the risk of facing Indonesian justice
