Denpasar, Bali — Indonesia’s Minister of Immigration and Correctional Affairs, Agus Andrianto, has issued a firm statement: foreign nationals (foreigners) with special intelligence records will be dealt with decisively under Indonesian law.
Speaking to the press after inaugurating Bali’s Immigration Task Force in Benoa on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, Andrianto emphasized a sharpened approach to immigration enforcement, particularly in Bali, where foreign presence is high and diverse.
His remarks follow concerns raised by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, who recently warned of potential espionage activities by foreigners in Indonesia. The Chief underscored that not all foreigners in Indonesia are tourists or refugees — some may serve as covert operatives for foreign governments, posing threats to national security.
“We are not just dealing with overstays or visa violations,” Andrianto said.
“If the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) or the Defense Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS) provides us with reports, immigration enforcement will be swift.”
Immigration Task Force Intensifies Monitoring
Andrianto confirmed that Immigration Task Forces are now actively patrolling key areas across Bali with the help of joint forces, including military (TNI), police (Polri), civil order units (Satpol PP), and local traditional guards (Pecalang). Their mission: to monitor, investigate, and take action against foreign nationals who violate immigration laws or pose risks to public safety.
While no confirmed cases of espionage have been found in Bali so far, Andrianto admitted that not every foreigner who enters Indonesia arrives with good intentions. From January to July 2025, Indonesia’s immigration authorities recorded a significant spike in immigration enforcement activity:
- 2,669 deportations
- 2,009 detentions
- Dozens of legal proceedings against foreigners involved in crimes in Bali
These figures highlight a growing commitment by Indonesian authorities to ensure that the influx of foreign visitors does not compromise the country’s legal and security framework.
Why This Matters to Foreign Residents and Visitors
While the majority of foreign nationals in Bali are tourists, remote workers, or long-term residents contributing positively to the local economy, Indonesian authorities are stepping up immigration enforcement to ensure that Bali remains safe, lawful, and respectful of national sovereignty.
Foreign residents are advised to:
- Keep their visa status and documentation in order
- Avoid involvement in unlawful employment or business
- Respect local laws, customs, and reporting requirements
Stay Aware, Stay Legal
Indonesia welcomes global travelers and expats with open arms — but the rules are tightening. As Minister Andrianto stated, immigration is no longer a passive border issue, but a national security priority. As such, authorities are increasingly proactive in identifying and addressing any foreign presence that raises red flags.
Whether you’re here for a vacation, business, or long-term living, maintaining legal status and following immigration enforcement guidelines is more important than ever.
This article is written by Giostanovlatto, Founder of Hey Bali, for Timebusinessnews and for all travelers around the world who dream of experiencing Bali the right way.
