Australians planning to visit Bali are being advised to be aware of new visa rules being introduced by Indonesian authorities.
The new rules are aimed at overseas visitors who use tourist visas while producing content with commercial value.
This includes sponsored social media posts, brand endorsements, paid photography, promotional videos and other revenue generating online material.
Indonesian immigration authorities say such activities are considered work and require the appropriate visa. They have now introduced tougher enforcement measures targeting foreign influencers and content creators.
The crackdown comes as Bali continues efforts to curb misuse of tourist visas and promote what officials describe as higher quality, more sustainable tourism.
Immigration officers have increased patrols in popular tourist areas including Canggu and Ubud while also monitoring social media platforms for potential visa breaches.
Australian travellers could be among those affected, with Bali remaining one of Australia’s most popular overseas holiday destinations and a favourite location for travel influencers, vloggers and content creators.
The Australian Government has updated its advice through SmartTraveller, warning that visitors must understand the conditions attached to their visas before travelling.
“It is illegal to work, conduct research or volunteer if you’re on a tourist visa,” SmartTraveller says.
The advice specifically notes that this includes creating or posting online content for payment, sponsorship or other commercial purposes.
It also warns Indonesian authorities may regard commercially produced content as a breach of visa conditions even if it is published after the traveller has left Indonesia.
Authorities have indicated the rules extend beyond traditional paid influencer campaigns.
Activities such as promotional photography, social media collaborations and content created in exchange for complimentary accommodation, meals or services may also be considered work if they provide economic value.
Travellers found breaching visa conditions could face serious penalties, including fines, detention, deportation and bans on re-entering Indonesia.
For most Australian holidaymakers, the changes are unlikely to affect a typical Bali getaway. Tourists who simply take holiday photos and videos for personal use can continue to do so as normal.
However, anyone intending to monetise their content, promote businesses or fulfil sponsorship agreements while visiting Indonesia is being urged to obtain the correct visa before departure and seek professional immigration advice if they are unsure of the requirements.
