Foreigners currently staying in Bali should be aware of an important immigration update for March 2026. Indonesia’s immigration authority, the Direktorat Jenderal Imigrasi, has announced that immigration offices across the country will temporarily suspend administrative services during the national holidays for Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr.
This holiday period affects many immigration services that foreigners often rely on, including visa extensions, stay permits, and immigration consultations.
For travelers, expatriates, and digital nomads living in Bali, understanding how the holiday closure impacts visa processing is essential to avoid overstaying or administrative delays.
Immigration Offices Will Temporarily Close
Immigration offices throughout Indonesia will be closed from 18 March until 24 March 2026.
Normal operations will resume on 25 March 2026.
During this period, immigration offices will temporarily stop processing public services such as:
- visa applications
- visa extensions
- stay permit applications
- passport processing
The announcement was delivered by the Acting Director General of Immigration, Yuldi Yusman.
Foreign nationals are encouraged to review their visa status and ensure their immigration documents remain valid throughout the holiday period.
Why Visa Extensions Should Be Processed Early
Bali hosts thousands of international visitors every month. Many travelers extend their stay while enjoying Bali’s beaches, culture, and lifestyle.
However, visa extensions require processing time. When immigration offices close during national holidays, applications may be delayed.
For this reason, foreigners staying in Bali should consider arranging their visa extension early through a **professional Visa on Arrival extension service in Bali before the immigration holiday period begins.
Many visitors enter Indonesia using a Visa on Arrival, which allows a 30-day stay and can be extended for another 30 days.
Processing the extension early helps ensure your legal stay in Indonesia remains uninterrupted.
Tourist Visa Options for Travelers Staying Longer
If you plan to stay longer than the standard Visa on Arrival period, several visa options are available depending on your purpose of visit.
Travelers who want to explore Indonesia for a longer period often choose the Single Entry Tourist Visa for Bali and Indonesia, which allows visitors to stay for extended travel and tourism activities.
This type of visa is popular among travelers who wish to explore Bali, Lombok, Komodo, or other Indonesian destinations without leaving the country frequently.
Business Visas for Entrepreneurs and Investors
Indonesia continues to attract international entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals interested in exploring business opportunities.
Foreigners who plan to attend business meetings, conduct market research, or explore partnerships may apply for the Single Entry Business Visa for Indonesia, which allows legal business-related activities without full employment status.
For professionals who frequently travel in and out of Indonesia, another option is the Multiple Entry Business Visa for regular business travel, allowing visitors to enter Indonesia multiple times throughout the year.
These visa options are often used by international entrepreneurs exploring Bali’s rapidly growing tourism and creative economy sectors.
Long-Term Stay Permits (KITAS)
Foreigners who wish to stay in Indonesia for longer periods usually require a KITAS (Limited Stay Permit).
There are several types of KITAS depending on the purpose of stay.
Professionals working for Indonesian companies must obtain a Work KITAS for employment in Indonesia, which allows foreign workers to legally live and work in the country.
Digital professionals working remotely for overseas companies may qualify for a Remote Worker KITAS designed for digital nomads living in Bali.
Students studying in Indonesia may apply for a Student KITAS for international students, while families joining a spouse or parent may apply for a Family KITAS for dependents living in Indonesia.
Each type of stay permit requires specific documentation and sponsorship according to Indonesian immigration regulations.
Permanent Stay Options (KITAP)
Foreign nationals who plan to settle in Indonesia for the long term may transition from a temporary stay permit to a permanent stay permit known as KITAP.
Retirees who choose Bali as their long-term residence can apply for a Retirement KITAP for long-term residence in Indonesia.
Foreign investors who establish businesses in Indonesia may also qualify for an Investor KITAP for long-term business residency.
These permits provide greater stability for foreigners who plan to live in Indonesia for many years.
Investment and Business Setup in Bali
Bali has become one of the most attractive destinations for foreign entrepreneurs looking to invest in tourism, hospitality, creative industries, and international services.
Foreign investors typically begin their business journey by establishing a Foreign-Owned Company (PT PMA) in Indonesia, which allows foreigners to legally operate businesses within the country.
Businesses must also obtain several regulatory documents, including a Business Registration Number (NIB) for legal business operations in Indonesia.
Proper company registration ensures that foreign-owned businesses comply with Indonesian legal and investment regulations.
Immigration Checkpoints Continue Operating
Although immigration offices temporarily close during the holiday period, immigration checkpoints at international entry points will continue to operate normally.
Airports and international seaports remain open 24 hours a day, and immigration officers will continue performing passport inspections and visa checks.
Travelers arriving in Indonesia during this time can still obtain a Visa on Arrival at the airport.
Avoid Overstay During the Holiday Period
Foreign nationals should always check the expiration date of their visa before the immigration holiday begins.
Overstaying in Indonesia may lead to immigration penalties, including daily fines and administrative sanctions.
Submitting visa extension applications before the holiday period is the safest way to avoid these issues.
Professional Visa Assistance in Bali
Managing immigration requirements can sometimes be complicated, especially during national holidays when government offices temporarily close.
ABSVISA provides professional assistance for foreigners who need help with visas, stay permits, and legal compliance in Indonesia.
Foreigners can explore the complete range of immigration services through comprehensive visa and immigration services available in Bali.
For consultation or assistance with visa applications, stay permits, or immigration matters, foreigners can also contact the ABSVISA team directly through professional visa consultation services in Bali.
