Indonesia blacklists 2 ITAS holders for unauthorized event work

Two Dutch residents who organized a Bali running event are now barred from re-entering Indonesia, with the duration of their blacklist not publicly disclosed.

Blacklist followed a July 23 departure

The two men, identified by the initials JAS and HQV, left Bali for Singapore through Ngurah Rai International Airport on July 23. Immigration then placed both on its re-entry blacklist, Director General of Immigration Silmy Karim confirmed.

JAS held an employment ITAS, while HQV had an investor ITAS. Neither status protected them from sanctions for activities immigration considered outside their permitted roles.

Bali run was treated as unauthorized event work

The pair organized Entourage Run, a Canggu club whose July 22 “silent disco” run drew complaints that Indonesians had been excluded. The club apologized and attributed the exclusions to an automatic approval process.

Immigration said the organizers lacked required event permits and breached visa conditions by acting as independent event organizers. Foreign nationals “aren't permitted to organize an event in Indonesia or become event organizers,” Marantoko said, though properly authorized foreigners may work as crew or officials at events involving international performers.

The corporate guarantor, PT SIG, has been summoned for questioning and could face sanctions. The investigation remains open.

Organizers face more risk than attendees

Casual participation in a meetup isn’t the issue. The risk arises when foreign tourists or ITAS holders organize structured events, collect fees, promote brands or operate outside the work authorized by their visa, as outlined in Indonesia’s residency rules.

Foreign residents planning runs, retreats or networking events should first confirm that an Indonesian legal entity is the organizer, the activity fits their immigration status and required local permits have been secured. Immigration said foreign-led activities must be coordinated with local authorities, including police where required.