Immigration Minister: Foreign Nationals Affected by Middle East Conflict Can Stay Temporarily in Bali
Jakarta, Kompas.com - Indonesia’s Immigration Minister Agus Andrianto has confirmed that foreign nationals (WNA) affected by the Middle East conflict can obtain Emergency Stay Permits (Izin Tinggal Keadaan Terpaksa, ITKT) in Bali.
This measure comes following an influx of WNA who must remain in Bali due to the outbreak of conflict in Gulf nations after the United States and Israel attacked Iran.
“They are permitted to stay until they feel safe. Since the war situation is still ongoing,” Agus said at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Thursday, 13 March 2026.
Agus noted that the Indonesian government felt compelled to help given the humanitarian dimensions of the situation.
He has directed the immigration service’s Directorate General (Ditjen) to provide assistance to affected WNA, including issuing ITKT permits.
“I have directed the immigration department to provide assistance to those affected. They can stay until they feel safe, as this is being considered,” he stated.
Previously, it was reported that 321 foreign nationals in Bali have applied for Emergency Stay Permits (ITKT). These applications were submitted due to the cancellation of international flights triggered by the Middle East conflict.
“Flight cancellations have occurred due to the Middle East conflict. To date, there have been 43 cancelled flights,” said Ferry when contacted on Thursday, 12 March 2026.
The cancellation of dozens of flights has affected thousands of foreign passengers who cannot continue their journey or return to their home countries.
Ferry disclosed that a total of 321 ITKT applications have been submitted in Bali. Of these, 222 applications are registered at the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office, 92 at the Denpasar Immigration Office, and seven at the Singaraja Immigration Office.
He noted that the Immigration Directorate General has issued a policy granting ITKT to WNA who cannot leave Indonesian territory due to circumstances beyond their control.
According to Ferry, the permit is issued to ensure that WNA maintain valid residence status whilst in Indonesia.
“ITKT is valid for 30 days and can be renewed every 30 days depending on the situation and condition should it continue,” he added.