Throughout 2024, Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration ramped up its efforts to monitor foreign nationals with Operation Jagratara. Jagratara is derived from the Sanskrit language, meaning “always vigilant.”
This nationwide initiative saw immigration law enforcement officers working together to keep a close eye on foreign residents. The goal? To ensure all foreign nationals comply with immigration rules while maintaining local community security.
“Operation Jagratara was born out of the challenges that arose with the increasing number of foreigners in Indonesia, particularly in the tourism and investment sectors. Intensive monitoring is necessary to ensure that every visitor complies with Indonesia’s immigration regulations. We aim for quality cross-border visitors,” explained then-Director General of Immigration, Silmy Karim in October 2024. Silmy Karim is now Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections.
The crackdown revealed some serious issues. In 2024, 130 foreign nationals were identified as suspects in immigration-related crimes, a staggering 145.2% increase compared to 2023, which saw only 53 suspects.
Bali’s Take on Operation Jagratara
In Bali, Operation Jagratara recorded 138 cases of immigration violations in 2024, up from 104 cases the previous year. One common violation involves the misuse of stay permits. In August 2024, the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office Class I caught six foreigners from Russia, Ukraine, and Australia working in North Kuta’s Canggu area.
They were employed in small and medium businesses, which is a big no-no with their Investor stay permits. Immigration authorities noted that violations by foreigners in Indonesia have expanded beyond just overstaying; they are now also engaging in business activities without the necessary permits.
“This operation targets foreigners suspected of engaging in activities in small-medium businesses, such as vehicle rental businesses, salons (hair and nail stylists), beauty clinics, tattoo artists, accessory traders, yoga instructors, swimming instructors, diving instructors, photographers, and others who do not have permits in accordance with the prevailing regulations,” explained Suhendra, Head of the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office.
Unregistered and illegal business activities by foreign tourists have also come under scrutiny. Not only do these actions harm the local economy, but they can also negatively impact Bali’s reputation as a global tourist destination.
A 25-year-old Uzbek national, identified by the initials AAUK, was deported in June 2024 from Bali after being involved in illegal property transactions. According to Gede Dudy Duwita, Head of the Denpasar Immigration Detention Center, the Uzbek tourist used a Telegram group to market properties without the proper permits.
“During his stay in Bali, he was involved in illegal property marketing activities,” stated Dudy.
Immigration officers quickly detected and stopped the illegal activity, as it did not comply with the stay permit of the Uzbek national, who only held a Visa on Arrival (VOA).
In a separate case, a 31-year-old Australian national, identified as JEDY, was also deported by the Singaraja Immigration Office in Buleleng. He was caught running a spa business despite only having a visit visa.
Immigration Administrative Sanctions
Immigration administrative sanctions for foreigners in Indonesia come in various forms. These include:
- Being placed on the Prevention or Watchlist
- Restrictions, changes, or cancellations of stay permits
- Bans from certain areas in Indonesia
Additionally, Immigration authorities also have the right to impose mandatory residency in specific locations, charge fines, and the most severe action is deportation from Indonesian territory.
Deportation can also be carried out against foreign nationals who attempt to escape threats and the execution of sentences in their home countries.
Amendments to the Immigration Law, which were enacted on September 19, 2024, also contribute to strengthening the foundation for immigration law enforcement in Indonesia. \
Now, foreign nationals who commit crimes in Indonesia can be banned from entering the country for up to 10 years or even for life. Previously, the period for entry bans was six months and could be extended.
With the amendments to the Immigration Law, individuals who have completed the investigation stage and are entering the prosecutor’s demand stage can be prevented from leaving Indonesia.
Stay within the legal framework
Directorate General of Immigration carried out Operation Jagratara on a national scale at regular intervals in May, July, and September 2024.
According to Agus Andrianto, Indonesia’s Minister of Immigration and Corrections, this operation aims to strengthen the monitoring of the presence and activities of foreign nationals across Indonesia.
“In 2025, I have instructed all levels to intensify regular operations and strengthen synergy with other law enforcement agencies,” Agus emphasized.
Given the increased scrutiny and enforcement of immigration laws, it’s crucial for foreign nationals in Indonesia, especially business owners, investors, and those involved in property transactions, to ensure legal compliance.
Seven Stones Indonesia specializes in assisting foreigners with proper stay permits and business licensing. Don’t risk falling foul of the law.
Contact Seven Stones Indonesia to get your free 30-minute consultation. Inquire about the legal aspects of living, working, or doing business in Indonesia and get the latest updates from our team of experts.
Sources : Dir. General of Immigration, GoKepri, CNN, Liputan6
Image: via Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform
