Australians heading to Bali face arrest, fines, and deportation if they create sponsored social media content on a tourist visa, following Indonesia's crackdown on visa misuse. The Australian government updated its Smartraveller advice to reflect the tougher stance, which targets not only paid posts but also freebies like flights, accommodation, or products in exchange for content.
What Has Changed?
Travel expert Chris Waite said the Indonesian government is not changing the law but clarifying how it applies to online content creation. “If you’re going to Bali or Indonesia and you’re planning to create social media content for economic value or commercial benefit, they’re going to consider that work. And you can’t travel on a tourist visa,” Waite said.
The crackdown covers influencers of all sizes. Even those with small followings who receive complimentary services—such as a free night’s accommodation or a bikini—could be in breach of visa conditions. “A lot of influencers will go and say, we’ll do a post, we’ll get a free flight, accommodation, or massage, or whatever it might be. And that’s also going to be covered now. So you won’t be able to do contra or collaboration deals without being on a work visa,” Waite explained.
Risks and Penalties
Violators face arrest, fines, and deportation. The updated Smartraveller advice emphasizes that working on a tourist visa is illegal and can lead to serious consequences.
How to Stay Compliant
Waite advised travellers who intend to create commercial content to apply for the appropriate visa before departure. Options include work visas, business visas, and remote working visas. A social media content creator visa costs about $160. “It’s not worth risking it,” Waite warned.
