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Bali detains 62 foreign nationals for B1/D1 visa abuse after May 4 sweep

Brandon Richards
Brandon Richards ·
Verified · 5 sources· Updated May 10, 2026
Bali detains 62 foreign nationals for B1/D1 visa abuse after May 4 sweep

Bali immigration keeps up patrols on foreign visa abuse

Bali’s Dharma Dewata Task Force detained 62 foreign nationals during patrols from April 15 to May 4, according to Bali Immigration. Cases included visa overstays, illegal work, false visa data and public-order disruptions. Some files were sent to police, while others face deportation under Article 75 Paragraph 1 of Indonesia’s Immigration Law.

Who the checks are aimed at

The enforcement sweep covers tourists, business travelers, investors, retirees, expats and digital nomads in Denpasar, Badung and Singaraja. Bali Immigration head Felucia Sengky Ratna said the patrols are meant to protect tourism and local jobs and officials said nomads on B1/D1 visas can be removed if they work outside the terms of their permits.

Immigration officers are also checking for overstays, permit misuse tied to fake investments and behavior that disturbs public order. The task force operates through patrols, surveillance and tip follow-ups.

What travelers need to keep in mind

Foreign nationals in Bali should keep passports or IDs with them and make sure their activities match the visa they hold. If no criminal charge applies, detained foreigners can face deportation and an entry ban.

Immigration also said minor cases may draw reprimands, but overstay fines still apply at IDR 1 million a day. Read our full Indonesia guide for the complete picture and check our visa updates for more alerts.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if a digital nomad in Bali works outside the terms of a B1 or D1 visa?
They can be removed, and officials said detainment can lead to deportation and an entry ban. The activity must strictly match the permit type.
What kinds of violations did Bali immigration find in the May sweep?
Officials found visa overstays, illegal work, false visa data and public-order disruptions. Some files were sent to police, while others face deportation.
How much is the overstay fine in Bali?
The overstay fine is IDR 1 million a day. Immigration said this still applies even in minor cases.
Who is being checked in Bali immigration patrols?
Tourists, business travelers, investors, retirees, expats and digital nomads are being checked. The patrols cover Denpasar, Badung and Singaraja.
What should foreign nationals carry with them in Bali?
They should keep passports or IDs with them. Immigration also said their activities should match the visa they hold.
Can detained foreigners in Bali be deported without criminal charges?
Yes. If no criminal charge applies, detained foreigners can face deportation and an entry ban.

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