Indonesia Immigration Clarifies How Israeli Citizens Enter the Country Amid Social Media Debate
Following viral social media posts highlighting the presence of Israeli tourists in Bali, Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has issued an official clarification. It explained that Israeli citizens may enter either through a strict visa verification process or by using third-country passports obtained through dual citizenship, such as Portuguese, German, or Greek passports.
Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has addressed a wave of social media discussion, sparked by pro-Palestine activists and international influencers, concerning the presence of Israeli citizens in Bali.
According to Eko Budianto, Director of Visas and Travel Documents, Israeli citizens can enter Indonesia through two main channels. The first is via a rigorous visa verification process requiring involvement and approval from multiple government bodies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the State Intelligence Agency (BIN), the National Police, the Attorney General's Office, the Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS), and the Ministry of Home Affairs. Budianto noted that "verification and approval do not come solely from immigration." Based on this process, very few Israeli nationals have actually entered Indonesia through standard visa channels.
The second channel involves using passports from other countries that recognize dual or multiple citizenship. While Indonesia adheres to a single-citizenship principle, many European countries allow dual nationality, and it is internationally recognized that some Israeli citizens hold multiple passports. Cross-checks through Indonesia's Immigration Management Information System (SIMKIM) found individuals entering using Portuguese, German, and Greek passports. Budianto clarified that Indonesia's system verifies nationality rather than place of birth.
The clarification follows viral videos showing Israeli tourists vacationing in Bali, which drew reactions from pro-Palestinian influencers. New York-based imam Shamsi Ali reposted content questioning why the issue was generating international headlines while remaining relatively quiet within Indonesia itself.
Things to Consider
This clarification concerns how existing entry procedures operate and does not introduce new restrictions for tourists or residents. Foreign travelers should continue verifying standard visa requirements and ensure passport details match their visa applications before arrival. It is advisable to rely on official immigration announcements rather than unverified social media claims when assessing entry policies.
Source: ANTARA