Hundreds of foreign nationals in Bali have allegedly fallen victim to visa fraud, suffering financial losses estimated at Rp 3 billion.
The case was disclosed during a press conference held by the Bali Legal Aid Institute of the Communication Forum for the Sons and Daughters of Retired Military and Police (LBH FKPPI) on Friday, 10 October.
As reported by JembranaExpress, I Gede Sugianyar, Head of LBH FKPPI Bali, explained that many foreigners arrived in Indonesia with tourist visas or temporary residence permits, but relied entirely on agents to manage the paperwork.
According to Sugianyar, the victims arrived in Indonesia using different types of visas, including tourist and temporary residence permits. Most admitted they did not fully understand their visa status, as the entire process was handled by an agent.
“Our clients don’t know how they obtained the visas. They simply paid the agent and handed over their passports. Along the way, the visas weren’t processed, their passports were confiscated, and they ended up overstaying their visas,” Sugianyar explained.
Visa Fraud: Passports Withheld, Victims Misled
The agent allegedly involved in visa fraud has been identified as MG or PT Maxx’s Group Internasional (PT MGI), operating in Ubud and Kerobokan, with suspected links to Jakarta. Victims reported paying around US$600 each for visa processing, excluding overstay fines, which in some cases reached Rp 200 million.
Fanisa Wilson, Deputy Director of LBH FKPPI Bali, highlighted the lack of transparency in the process.
“One victim came as a yoga instructor and was promised a work visa, but was instead given an investor visa. The process wasn’t transparent, and the victim was never summoned to the immigration office,” she said.
According to RadarBali, LBH FKPPI received the first report on 29 September 2025. The main complaints were passport retention and unprocessed visa applications. About 10–15 victims attended the press conference and submitted supporting documents, including receipts, immigration papers, and electronic messages.
Other victims confirmed similar experiences. They were told their passports were being held by immigration, though checks revealed no such detention. “This agent was simply using the immigration name to deceive,” Sugianyar said.
In addition to financial losses, victims reported receiving threats. They were told their passports would not be returned if they sought legal help.
A German national, Jellyfish George, shared his experience. He came to Bali to work as a musician and extended his visa through the agent.
“They said my passport was being held by immigration, but it wasn’t. I couldn’t return to my country because my passport wasn’t returned. As a result, I overstayed and feared deportation,” George said, as quoted from RadarBali.
He added, “I love Indonesia and want to return here without any problems. I also want to send a message to other foreign nationals: don’t be afraid to fight for your rights in Indonesia.”
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Legal Action Underway
LBH FKPPI Bali confirmed it has collected evidence, including transfer receipts, immigration records, and electronic communications.
Approximately 30 supporting documents have been compiled, and around 10–15 victims attended in person to submit official statements.
LBH FKPPI Bali has already coordinated with the Bali Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration. “They also suffered significant financial losses,” Sugianyar said, adding that the organisation is preparing both a police report and a civil lawsuit.
Fitri Anisa, Deputy Director of LBH FKPPI Bali, stressed that the case must be investigated immediately. “The victims came here to work, holiday, or start businesses legally, but were deceived. This damages Bali’s image as an international destination,” she said.
A Trusted Visa Option
Amid reports of fraudulent visa agents, foreign nationals are reminded to seek professional and transparent services.
Choosing the right visa depends on travel plans: a Single Entry Visa is suitable for longer stays with one entry, while a Multiple Entry Visa is recommended for those who plan to travel in and out of Indonesia frequently.
For a secure and hassle-free process, Lets Move Indonesia offers professional advice, straightforward applications, and complete assistance with scheduling immigration appointments.
Their offices in Jakarta, Seminyak, Canggu, and Sanur are available to provide free consultations, ensuring foreigners avoid scams and enter Indonesia with confidence.
Contact Lets Move Indonesia today to get your free consultation!
📧Email: info@letsmoveindonesia.com
📱WhatsApp: +62 812 9260 0590
☎Phone: +62 21 300 297 27 (Jakarta),
☎+62 361 934 8343 (Seminyak),
☎+62 361 939 9406 (Canggu),
☎+62 361 280 789 (Sanur)
