BULELENG, DEWATA.NEWS – Immigration authorities in northern Bali are considering expanding inspections of foreign nationals beyond tourist areas to include boarding houses and rental homes as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen immigration enforcement.
The move comes during Operation Jagratara, a nationwide immigration patrol running through July 29, 2026, aimed at ensuring foreign nationals comply with Indonesia’s immigration regulations.
Currently, patrols remain focused on areas with high concentrations of foreign visitors, including Lovina Beach in Buleleng, Amed in Karangasem, and Medewi in Jembrana.
Head of the Class II Immigration Office at Singaraja, Anak Agung Gde Kusuma Putra, said inspections of boarding houses and rental properties are not yet the primary focus but could become part of future operations.
“We are currently prioritizing locations with a high concentration of foreign nationals. However, it is possible that we will also target boarding houses and rental homes in the future,” he said on Tuesday (July 21).
He emphasized that public participation plays an important role in monitoring foreign nationals, particularly those staying outside hotels and licensed accommodation.
Residents are encouraged to report foreign nationals living in boarding houses or rental properties within their neighborhoods so immigration officers can verify their immigration status.
“If you know of foreign nationals staying in boarding houses or rental homes, please report it to the Immigration Office. We will follow up in accordance with immigration regulations,” Kusuma Putra said.
During Operation Jagratara, officers inspect the validity of residence permits, investigate possible visa misuse, and verify whether foreign nationals can present valid passports or other immigration documents when requested.
Foreign nationals suspected of violating immigration rules may be taken to the Immigration Office for further examination.
If officers discover violations outside the scope of immigration law, such as traffic offenses, the cases will be referred to the appropriate authorities.
“For example, if we encounter traffic violations, we will coordinate with the police so the matter can be handled under their authority,” Kusuma Putra explained.
Separately, immigration officials continue routine monitoring of foreign workers employed at the Celukan Bawang Steam Power Plant (PLTU) in Buleleng.
According to the latest inspection results, all foreign workers at the facility were found to possess valid residence permits in accordance with Indonesian immigration regulations.