Bali Cracks Down On Influencers, Deports Them For “Working” On Tourist Visa

Some countries have government task forces to crack down on drugs, while Bali has a government task force to crack down on… influencers. In fairness, this is a bit nuanced, but I imagine some people will feel a sense of schadenfreude.

The issue is, that line has been blurred a lot over the years, with the increase of remote work. Do you only need a work visa if you’re actually being paid locally? Or what about if you’re using your trip to a country to generate revenue in some way?

Well, this is something that authorities in Bali are cracking down on, as Bali has become influencer central over the years. Indonesian immigration authorities have drawn a hard line when it comes to what constitutes work, and it covers just about everything that influencers do.

The idea is that if you take part in any brand collaborations, post sponsored social media posts, participate in photography assignments, or even have a deal where you get free accommodation in exchange for content, that requires a work visa now. Even unpaid promotional photo shoots intended to increase an influencer’s portfolio are considered commercial activity, which requires a work permit or remote worker visa.

Essentially anything that creates economic value requires a work visa. In the past, many influencers thought that as long as they’re not being directly paid money locally, that doesn’t constitute work. But regulators have made it clear that even when money isn’t changing hands, economic value can still be created.

This isn’t just a theoretical law, but the Dharma Dewata Immigration Patrol Task Force was formed in April 2026, and is actively detaining and deporting people who violate the rules. They’re going around the areas popular with influencers, and even browsing social media content.

Within the first few weeks, 62 influencers were detained, and either fined, deported, or both. They’re also facing entry bans of multiple years.

People are divided, and this is a complex topic

As you’d expect, people have varying takes on this new policy. It’s hilarious to see the comments on social media posts — you have some self-important influencers up in arms, suggesting that such a policy will lead to Bali’s downfall, while you have others who are downright delighted.

However, the government is using a stricter definition than some other places when it comes to defining the type of activity that constitutes work. Bali has decided that any activity that generates economic value requires a work visa. Dozens of influencers have been detained and deported in recent weeks, and it looks like enforcement will only ramp up even more over time.

What do you make of Bali’s influencer crackdown?