Indonesia has tightened visa rules for foreign influencers and content creators visiting Bali, with new scrutiny on those entering the country on tourist visas.
SmartTraveller has urged Australian creators travelling to Indonesia to check they hold the appropriate visa if they plan to work while in the country.
Under the rules, visitors who create or publish online content for income, payment, sponsorships or other commercial gain while on a tourist visa may be breaching their visa conditions — even if the material is posted after they leave Indonesia.
“It’s illegal to work, conduct research or volunteer if you’re on a tourist visa,” the website cautioned.
“Ensure you have the right visa for your trip.”
According to Bali Info, dozens of foreign nationals have been detained by the Dharma Dewata Immigration Patrol Task Force, which monitors social media activity and carries out patrols in popular areas including Canggu and Ubud.
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Those found to have violated visa conditions could face fines, deportation or even a lifetime ban from entering Indonesia.
Felucia Sengky Ratna, the Directorate of Immigration’s Bali regional head, told media the measures were designed to help safeguard the island’s tourism sector.
“This oversight is carried out comprehensively to maintain security and stability,” she said.
Influencers and content creators have been warned to check they have the correct visa before entering Bali.
Working in the island nation on a tourist visa is one of the most common reasons foreigners are deported from Bali, Indonesia Immigration warned in a social media post.
“It is not always about payment. Immigration authorities may look at the purpose of stay, the type of activity, and whether there is economic value behind it,” a post stated.
Activities include professional services such as make-up artists, photographers, product endorsement and promotion on social media — even if the work is unpaid and involves benefits.
