The Directorate General of Immigration of the Republic of Indonesia has issued a firm warning to foreign tourists visiting Bali: do not engage in volunteer work without the appropriate visa. Violators may face legal consequences, including deportation.

Unlike in some other countries where foreigners are allowed to volunteer freely, Indonesia strictly regulates such activities. Foreign nationals who enter on a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or multiple-entry visitor visas such as B1, C1, or D1 are strictly prohibited from volunteering with foundations, NGOs, or social institutions.

According to the official Immigration website, visitor visas only allow for activities such as tourism, visiting family, attending business meetings, or receiving medical treatment.

“With this visa you can: Perform activities related to tourism, visit friends or family, engage in business discussions, and conduct site visits to production facilities,” states imigrasi.go.id.

This tightening of regulations follows a significant increase in visa abuse cases involving foreigners.
Between January and April 2024, Immigration processed 1,610 immigration enforcement cases. During the same period in 2025, that number rose to 2,201 cases, representing a 36.71% increase.

Authorities believe many of these violations stem from well-intentioned tourists unknowingly engaging in unauthorized volunteering, not realizing that such work still requires proper legal permission under Indonesian immigration law.

Foreigners who genuinely wish to volunteer in Bali must apply for a specific volunteer visa through official channels. They may only work with registered foundations (Yayasan), institutions authorized to host international volunteers, or designated government agencies.

Opportunities for legal volunteer work in Bali do exist, and many local foundations welcome international help. However, all involvement must comply with existing immigration procedures and regulations.

Immigration officials remind the public that violations of visa conditions can result in administrative sanctions or deportation, as stipulated in Law No. 6 of 2011 on Immigration.