In recent months, there’s been a sharp increase in visa scams in Bali, with news of unsuspecting foreigners stranded on the island going viral on social media. These rogue agents collect passports and payments from clients under the promise of processing their Bali visa, but then go silent, offering no updates, no visa, and no refund.
Bali Visa Scam: How Does This Affect You?
Falling victim to a visa scam in Bali does not only mean losing precious time and visa fees; with no passport, you won’t be able to leave the country. This leads to overstaying, which means potential jail time and fines that can go up to hundreds of millions of rupiah.
In many cases, clients only realise something is wrong when their stay permit expires, leaving them at risk of deportation, blacklisting, or fines of up to IDR 90 million.
Visa Scams In Bali: Who Can Help & How Bad Can It Get?
Being a victim of a Bali visa scam does not exempt you from the law – even if you were scammed by a fake visa agent, you can still face penalties like jail time and huge fines for overstaying or staying in Indonesia without a valid visa.
To avoid such a traumatic outcome, we’ve come up with some important tips and insights on how foreigners in Bali can avoid falling for Bali visa scams and fake visa agencies.
5 Ways To Avoid Visa Scams In Bali
1. Check if the Agency Is Legally Registered in Indonesia
A genuine visa agency must be a registered company (PT) and authorised to work with Indonesian immigration.
Ask for:
- The company’s registered name, NIB number, and business licence.
- Proof that they’re listed in the OSS Indonesia system or recognised by Imigrasi.
If the agency refuses to show these documents or uses a personal name instead of a company, do not proceed.
2. Never Hand Over Your Passport Without Proper Documentation
Your passport is your most important document in Indonesia. Never give it to anyone without a signed, official receipt that includes your name, passport number, and visa type.
A professional agency will also explain:
- Why do they need your passport
- How long will they keep it
- Who is responsible for it during processing
If an agency asks you to send your passport via courier or won’t issue paperwork, it’s likely a scam.
3. Avoid Agencies That Exist Only on WhatsApp or Instagram
Many scam operations in Bali look legitimate online but have no real office or business licence.
Before paying anything:
- Visit their office in person
- Check that the company name matches the signage and online profile
- Be wary if they refuse to give an address or constantly change contact numbers
Legitimate visa companies welcome walk-ins and offer face-to-face consultations.
4. Pay Only Through a Company Account, Never a Personal One
A simple rule: never transfer money to a personal account for visa services.
Trustworthy agencies accept payment only through official company bank accounts and issue formal invoices and receipts for every transaction.
Before paying, confirm:
- The account name matches the company name
- You receive an invoice with visa type, fees, and processing time
- The agency has a clear refund or cancellation policy
If any of these are missing, it’s best not to continue.
5. Track Your Visa Application and Request Regular Updates
A transparent agency will always keep you updated. You have every right to ask for your application reference number and progress updates.
Scam agencies often go silent after payment, or keep promising “next week” with no result.
If that happens, contact Immigration directly to confirm if your application even exists.
BONUS TIP: Ask around. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to know what you’re getting into – talk to other foreigners, post in local groups or forums, check social media, and read reviews before choosing a trusted Bali visa agent.
Stay Safe and Legal with MPG Visa Bali: Bali’s Most Trusted Visa Agent
Choosing the right visa agency isn’t just about convenience; it’s about protecting your legal status, your passport, and your peace of mind.
At MPG Visa Bali, we’re proud to offer:
- A fully registered and licensed business
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Official receipts and documentation
- Real-time visa tracking and updates
- Secure handling of passports and personal data
MPG Visa Bali has been serving clients since 2000, earning the trust of thousands of satisfied customers through a transparent process, clear communication, and accredited systems. We are officially recognised by the relevant authorities and maintain a strong professional relationship with the Bali Immigration Office.
If you’ve been affected by a visa scam in Bali or are unsure about your current visa status, contact MPG Visa Bali – our experienced team will help you get back on the right path safely and legally. Visit our office on Jalan Dewi Sri, meet our long-standing team members, and check our authentic client reviews online.
Contact MPG Bali Visa Today: Trusted & Reliable Bali Visa Agent
Contact MPG Bali Visa today for all your Bali visa needs. From Visa on Arrival (VOA), Tourist and Visit Visas, to Visa Extensions, PT PMA Set Up, KITAS, and KITAP, we’ve got you covered. With 25 years of proven experience and a trusted track record, MPG Bali Visa is your trusted, go-to agent on the island.
Contact MPG Bali Visa Now
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