IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Indonesian authorities have become increasingly active in checking foreign nationals’ travel and identification documents in recent weeks, a trend that is consistent with past increases in checks during Ramadan and the Christmas-New Year’s holiday season.

What does the change mean? Random checks have increased. Foreign nationals should be prepared to produce passports, visas and work and stay permits (KITAS/KITAP) if an immigration official or other government authority makes a request to see such documentation.

  • Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
  • Visas/permits affected: Visitor visas, work and stay Permits
  • Who is affected: Foreign nationals working, residing or traveling in Indonesia.
  • Next steps: Travelers bring their identification and travel documents at all times when traveling in Indonesia. Checks have occurred not only at airports or other immigration checkpoints, but also in public places such as streets, restaurants and bars.

Background: Ramadan began this month and runs roughly until July 5, depending on the length of the lunar month. The increase in checks is consistent with past enhanced security measures during Ramadan and the Christmas-New Year’s holiday season.

BAL Analysis: Foreign nationals should take care, especially now, to make sure they have the proper travel and identification documents with them at all times.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network partner in Indonesia. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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