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Indonesia has introduced new visa rules targeting foreign influencers and content creators in Bali on tourist visas.
SmartTraveller warned Australian content creators entering Indonesia to make sure they had the correct visa to work.
Anyone who posts content online for revenue, payment, sponsorship or other commercial purposes on a tourist visa is in breach of their visa conditions — even if content is published after they have left the island nation.
“It’s illegal to work, conduct research or volunteer if you’re on a tourist visa,” the website warned.
“Ensure you have the right visa for your trip.”
Dozens of foreigners in Bali have been detained by the Dharma Dewata Immigration Patrol Task Force, who actively monitor social media and patrol known hotspots in Canggu and Ubud, Bali Info reported.
Penalties include fines and deportation to lifetime bans from entering Indonesia.
The Directorate of Immigration’s general head of Bali, regional officer Felucia Sengky Ratna, told the media that the new laws were introduced to protect Bali’s tourism industry.
“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.
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