Australian Deported by Singaraja Immigration for Running Yoga Retreat on Visa-on-Arrival
Singaraja's Class II Immigration Office deported a 55-year-old Australian man (initials PJ) for allegedly misusing his Visa-on-Arrival (VOA). He is accused of leading meditation sessions and organizing a paid yoga retreat in Buleleng regency, activities not permitted under a VOA. He has also been proposed for entry into Indonesia's blacklist.
The Class II Immigration Office (TPI) in Singaraja, Bali, announced the deportation of an Australian national identified as PJ (55) on suspicion of misusing his stay permit. In addition to deportation, immigration authorities have proposed adding him to Indonesia's entry ban list, which would bar his return for a set period.
According to officials, PJ allegedly served as a meditation instructor and organized a yoga retreat as part of a program called "7 Day Inner Growth," held at Villa Boreh in Tejakula district, Buleleng regency, from July 27 to August 2, 2026. Investigators found that PJ had entered Indonesia on a Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) valid until August 24, 2026. Immigration head Agung explained that a VOA is intended for specific visit purposes only and cannot be used for work or activities inconsistent with the visa's stated purpose.
As a result of the alleged violation, PJ was subjected to administrative immigration action under Article 75(1) in conjunction with Article 122(a) of Indonesia's 2011 Immigration Law No. 6, resulting in deportation.
Officials reiterated that all foreign nationals must use visas and stay permits consistent with their stated purpose of visit, warning that violations will be strictly enforced. The Singaraja Immigration Office also stated it would intensify monitoring of foreign nationals' activities in Buleleng, Karangasem, and Jembrana regencies, and urged the public to report suspected immigration violations promptly.
Things to Consider
Foreign nationals on a Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) or tourist visa should be aware that paid activities such as teaching yoga, leading meditation sessions, or organizing retreats can be classified as visa misuse, leading to deportation and entry bans. Anyone planning to earn income from wellness-related activities in Bali should obtain the appropriate work or business visa (e.g., KITAS) before starting operations. Those already conducting such activities should consult an immigration agent or lawyer promptly to regularize their visa status. Given increased monitoring in Buleleng, Karangasem, and Jembrana, travelers and residents should double-check that their actual activities match their visa classification.
Source: detikcom