Deported as a 'fake investor': how the Bali crackdown works
Joint immigration and investment-board operations in Bali target visa-status mismatches, most often an investor KITAS backed by a company that does not really invest or operate, or people working on the wrong visa. An investor KITAS without a genuine, compliant PT PMA behind it can end in detention, deportation and a re-entry ban.
What to send us if this affects you ↓In the first half of 2025, Indonesian immigration deported more than 2,600 foreigners and detained around 2,000, often in joint operations with the investment board. A recurring theme: foreigners holding an investor KITAS backed by a company that does not really invest or operate.
The common traps
Working on the wrong visa; holding an investor KITAS without a genuine, compliant PT PMA behind it; relying on a nominee to control land or a business; or running a company that exists only on paper. Any of these can end in detention, deportation, and a re-entry ban.
How to stay on the right side of it
Match your visa to what you actually do; make sure the company behind your KITAS is real and compliant; avoid nominee structures that collapse under scrutiny; and keep your documents in order. Be the foreigner whose paperwork survives an inspection.
If you are already exposed
If you suspect your setup is weak, fix it before an officer finds it. A lawyer can review your visa, company and structure and tell you honestly where you stand and what to repair first.
Frequently asked questions
Why were so many foreigners deported from Bali?
Joint immigration and investment-board operations target visa-status mismatches — most often an investor KITAS backed by a company that does not really invest or operate, or people working on the wrong visa.
Is an investor KITAS safe if my company is not active?
No. An investor KITAS without a genuine, compliant PT PMA behind it is one of the recurring traps — it can end in detention, deportation and a re-entry ban.
What should I do if my visa setup might be weak?
Fix it before an officer finds it. Have your visa, company and structure reviewed so you know honestly where you stand and what to repair first.
Send your visa type, your role in the company, and when your current stay permit expires. We check for conflicts and set up a confidential consultation.
Start on WhatsApp[email protected]First contact is intake and a conflict check. Legal advice is given in a paid 90-minute consultation (Rp2.5 million, credited against your engagement if you retain the firm within 30 days). Please wait for instructions before sending documents.
You will be speaking with Jeremy Jordan, S.H. — DPN Indonesia, NIA 25.25.32730.
General information only, not legal advice for your situation. No result is guaranteed. Speak to a lawyer about your specific facts.