Indonesia evaluates visa exemption policy following rise in cybercrime cases

Indonesia reviewing its visa waiver program after detaining hundreds of foreign nationals

Indonesia is currently reassessing its visa exemption policy as part of a broader crackdown on transnational cybercrime. The Directorate General of Immigration confirmed that the country’s entry facilities are under evaluation following a series of high-profile operations involving foreign nationals suspected of operating illegal gambling and online fraud networks.

According to the Indonesian National Police (INP), authorities recently detained more than 500 individuals in separate raids across Jakarta and Batam. The suspects included nationals from several Southeast Asian countries that currently benefit from 30-day visa-free stays.

Silmy Karim, Director General of Immigration, in an official update:

"Cases of foreigners involved in illegal activities, including those coming from countries granted visa-free entry facilities, give rise to a need for evaluation."

He noted that these illicit activities are a matter of "serious concern" for national security and public order.

Thousand of deporations enforced as of May 2026

Investigators discovered that many of those arrested had entered the country using visa waivers or Visas on Arrival (VoA).

In response, immigration officials have intensified enforcement, carrying out over 6,700 administrative actions so far in 2026, which include more than 2,000 deportations and permit cancellations.

The review aims to balance Indonesia’s interest in tourism recovery with the need to prevent the country from becoming a safe haven for international scam operators.

Impact on travelers to Indonesia

While no immediate changes to the list of visa-exempt countries have been announced, authorities emphasized a stricter "selective immigration principle." This means entry will be prioritized for travelers who benefit the country and do not pose a risk to public order.

The heightened scrutiny on visa exemptions coincides with a broader enforcement drive in popular tourist areas, as authorities in Bali recently launched a crackdown targeting foreign influencers and volunteers working illegally on tourist visas.

The move also follows a similar trend in the entire region, as Thailand recently considered adjustments to its own visa-free entry to curb potential policy abuse by foreign nationals.

For now, travelers from eligible countries can still enter Indonesia under existing rules, though they may face stricter screening at border checkpoints.