Monitoring of Foreign Nationals has been reactivated and implemented nationwide in Indonesia since August 21-22, 2024.
This supervision operation extends beyond airports and seaports, reaching accommodations such as hotels, apartments, and even water-based lodgings like tourist boats.
The primary goal of this initiative is to ensure that foreign nationals in Indonesia comply with immigration regulations, uphold local laws, and maintain national security.
Mandatory Reporting for Foreign Nationals
For instance, in Banten Province, all hotels and apartments are required to report their foreign national guests.
According to Tessa Harumdila, Head of the Immigration Intelligence and Enforcement Division at the Ministry of Law and Human Rights’ Regional Office in Banten, this is part of enforcing Article 72 of Law No. 6 of 2011 on Immigration. Accommodation providers must submit data on their foreign guests, as reported by liputan6.com.
“Failure to comply will result in immigration administrative sanctions and fines in accordance with the law,” Tessa explained in March 2023.
Nationwide Implementation of Supervision
Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), a popular destination among international and domestic tourists, has also emphasized the importance of these monitoring operations. Hotels and similar accommodations in the area actively and consistently carry out these measures.
“Failure to report foreign nationals can result in criminal penalties, including up to three months of imprisonment and a fine of IDR 25 million, as stipulated in Article 117 of the same law,” said Christian Prantigo, Head of the Immigration Technology and Communication Section at Labuan Bajo Immigration Office, on Thursday, November 21, quoted mediaindonesia.com.
The Immigration Offices in Nunukan and Jayapura are equally proactive in implementing foreign national supervision operations.
Strengthening Immigration Oversight
Ronni Fajar Purba, Head of the Jayapura Immigration Office, emphasized that this reporting system enhances foreign national supervision and reduces immigration violations.
As of November 2024, the Jayapura Immigration Office has deported 121 foreign nationals, with most offenders hailing from Papua New Guinea, as reported by kabarpapua.co.
The operation ensures that hotel owners and managers understand their obligations to report foreign guests. Immigration offices across Indonesia continue to coordinate with relevant agencies to enforce these measures effectively.
Immigration officials hope that ongoing efforts like these will prevent the unauthorized entry of foreign nationals, especially in border areas which pose higher risks to national security, as reported by jawapos.com.
This year’s Jagratara supervision operation marks its second implementation, following a similar nationwide operation conducted in May 2024.
Your Guide to Indonesian Immigration Compliance
While these measures are necessary to maintain security and order, the Indonesian government is committed to implementing them in a humane and efficient manner, ensuring that foreign visitors feel safe and welcome.
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, it’s crucial to adhere to local immigration laws and regulations.
Seven Stones Indonesia, with its deep understanding of Indonesian immigration policies, is dedicated to providing expert guidance and support.
Whether you’re a business traveler, tourist, or expat working in Indonesia, we can assist you in dealing with your immigration needs. Reach out to us today to discuss your plan in Indonesia or fill in our contact form to schedule your free 30 minutes consultation.
Sources: Liputan6.com, MediaIndonesia.com, JawaPos.com, BeritaSatu.com, KabarPapua.co
Image: via AdobeStock