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Indonesia revises visa regulations: here is what travellers should know to avoid trouble.

Indonesia has adopted stricter visa rules. Punishment for the breach of immigration rules is significantly more severe. Visa offenses, which were initially punishable with up to one year imprisonment, could now attract up to 20 years imprisonment. With this system, from now onwards, the country's immigration system will be well protected. However, if the tourist respects the rules such as regular 30 days or 60 days extensions for the original period allowed for by the first visa issued, it will not affect him or her.

Following are the vital facts on this new rules:

Government Firm Approach: It reflects and indicates the strict approach of Indonesia towards its immigration system and how it demands respect from visitors by the law.

Operation Jagratara: The Indonesian Department of Immigration has started this Operation against those who break the visa rules and commit other illegal activities amongst foreign visitors.

Harsh Penalties: A visa offense, which earlier could only warrant six months to one year imprisonment, can now attract an imprisonment of up to 20 years under the new regulations.

Deportations: Already this year, 400 people have been deported for breaking immigration laws resulting from this operation.

Immigration Officers Deployment: With regard to the tougher regulation, 125 immigration officers have been stationed in Bali to enforce compliance with the law.

No Effect on Law-Abiding Tourists: Law-abiding tourists, that follow the visa regime, such as 30-day visa on arrival or those within an extended period of 60 days, will not be affected by this rule.

More Patrolling: Officers would patrol the island in 20 Jeeps and 20 motorcycles, which would give high visibility and mobility to effectively monitor the activities of the tourists.

Bali Tourism Attraction: Bali still remains one of Indonesia's prominent tourist attractions, and the officers intend to preserve the reputation of the island while making the visitors adhere to regulations and guidelines set.

Carrying Arms Privilege: The immigration officers have been given permission to carry arms, not only for their protection but also for dealing with dangerous transnational criminals.

Statement by Silmy Karim: The use of firearms is necessary as some officers would have to deal with "bad fellows, according to Silmy Karim, the director general of immigration of Indonesia.

Transnational Crime Focus: These new rules are also focused on visa violations; more importantly, they aim at targeting transnational crime in Indonesia.

Security for Locals and Visitors: The government of Indonesia perceives this strict rule as ensuring the rights of citizens and security among international people.

More Checkpoints: There should be more immigration checkpoints set up to heighten security beyond the borders and have an account of the movements at the borders.

Monitoring Entrants: This will enable the government to track entrants and exit as well to and from the country.

Commitment to Law and Order: It gives law and order in the country by elevating the immigration laws of Indonesia as well as securing its borders.

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