Immigration Investigates Alleged Violations by Chinese Business Owners in Nusa Penida
The Klungkung Immigration Office is investigating suspected immigration violations by two Chinese nationals in Nusa Penida, Klungkung, Bali. The move follows a joint inspection by immigration officers and the Klungkung Regency Government at several foreign-owned businesses.
“From the inspection led by the Klungkung Regent at three locations, we found Chinese nationals whose visas were problematic. We are currently following up by summoning them,” said Asanda Eventualis Tejarahman, Head of the Intelligence and Enforcement Subdivision at Klungkung Immigration, on Monday (3/8/2026).
He explained that the two Chinese nationals, identified by the initials WN and KL, allegedly held business visas while working as dive instructors, an activity inconsistent with their visa type. “There is indeed a visa mismatch. We plan to summon them today or tomorrow at the latest. If found guilty, the most severe sanction is deportation,” Asanda stated.
Beyond the two Chinese nationals managing businesses in Nusa Penida, authorities are also scrutinising other potential violations, particularly indications of illegal foreign workers. Asanda stressed that the focus is on ensuring no foreign nationals are secretly working while holding tourist visas. “For this Chinese national case, we might give them time to make corrections because they clearly have visas. Our focus is on foreigners who are secretly working with tourist visas,” he emphasised.
He acknowledged challenges in enforcement, including the office’s recent formation and limited personnel and posts in Nusa Penida. Previously, the Klungkung Regency Government conducted a monitoring operation on 30 July, focusing on foreign worker supervision and tourism levy monitoring in Nusa Penida District. The joint operation, facilitated by the National Unity and Politics Agency, was led by Klungkung Regent I Made Satria and targeted three foreign-owned business locations in Ped Village.
Regent Satria stressed that all foreign-owned businesses in Nusa Penida must complete their permit documents, from building permits to employment administration. “This visit is to ensure that every foreign-owned business in Nusa Penida complies with regulations,” he said. He warned that businesses failing to complete their permits after three warning letters would face closure. The required documents include immigration documents for foreign workers, building approvals, operational permits, spatial planning compliance and local tax registration numbers.