SynopsisBali's immigration authorities are cracking down on tourists engaging in unpaid promotional or work-related activities on visitor visas. Officials are scrutinizing influencers, creators, and practitioners, emphasizing that even collaborations with economic value, like portfolio building, can violate immigration rules. Travelers must align their actions with their visa purpose or risk sanctions, with alternative visa options available for professional pursuits.AgenciesIndonesian immigration authorities have clarified that foreign tourists in Bali could face penalties for carrying out unpaid promotional or work-related activities while travelling on tourist visas, as officials tighten scrutiny of visitor behaviour on the island. Authorities said travellers must ensure their activities match the purpose of their visa and stay permit, warning that even unpaid collaborations or content creation may violate immigration rules if they carry economic value. The clarification comes as Bali continues to record strong international tourist arrivals, with Indonesian officials saying the island receives more than 7 million foreign visitors annually.Influencers, creators among groups under scrutiny According to immigration authorities, officials are paying closer attention to unpaid collaborations, social media promotions and project-based activities carried out by foreign visitors. The guidance is expected to affect influencers, photographers, DJs, yoga instructors, wellness practitioners and other creators travelling to Bali for collaborations, retreats or exchange-based projects. Indonesian Immigration said unpaid activities are “not always” automatically allowed under tourist or socio-cultural visas. Officials said authorities may examine “the purpose of stay, the type of activity, and whether there is economic value behind it.” The agency identified several activities that could trigger scrutiny, including photography services, makeup artistry, endorsements, commercial promotions, business-related social media content and other “work-like activities that involve benefits, even if unpaid.”Officials said that even without direct payment, the activity could still create promotional or portfolio value and therefore may be viewed as carrying economic benefit under immigration regulations. “Foreign nationals are required to use their visa and stay permit in accordance with the intended purpose,” Indonesian Immigration said, adding that activities inconsistent with visa conditions “may result in sanctions.” Authorities said travellers planning professional collaborations or commercial activities may need to apply for other visa categories such as business visas, work permits, volunteer visas, investment visas or artist and performer visas. The clarification follows growing concerns among Indonesian authorities over foreigners engaging in professional or income-linked activities while entering the country on tourist permits. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)...moreElevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea.Subscribe Now