Jembrana Civil Registry: Migrants Must Have Clear Purpose and Guarantor in Bali

Entry to Bali via Gilimanuk Port is being tightened as the peak of the Lebaran return flow begins in 2026. Residents arriving without a clear purpose and identification will be immediately returned to their origin. This firm step is taken by the Jembrana Regency Government to anticipate a surge of incoming residents (migrants) without assured employment or accommodation. Population administration checks are conducted in layers by combined officers from the Civil Registry (Dukcapil), Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP), Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), National Police (Polri), and the Transportation Agency. Head of the Population Registration Service Division of Jembrana Civil Registry, I Komang Sujana, revealed that the checks focus on factual verification at the Population Post in Gilimanuk Terminal. Officers comb through bus passengers, private vehicles, and pedestrians who have just disembarked from ferries. “Our officers are fully on standby to conduct checks. The focus is on the validity of identities and the clarity of their purposes in coming to Bali,” said Sujana on Thursday (26/3/2026). Although the rules are enforced strictly, Sujana stated that they still provide tolerance for migrants facing technical issues with their physical identities. Migrants whose physical ID cards are left behind but can show digital identities or ID photos on their phones are still allowed entry, with certain conditions. “As long as the NIK is valid and there is a clear guarantor in Bali, whether family or workplace company, we still tolerate it. Conversely, migrants without complete identities, without purpose, or without a guarantor will certainly be returned,” he added. Based on data from ASDP Indonesia Ferry, the peak return flow on the Bali Strait crossing route is predicted to occur from 26 to 29 March 2026. In addition to population checks, the Jembrana Resort Police (Polres) is also intensifying the Routine Enhanced Activity Operation (KRYD) by inspecting vehicles and carried goods to ensure Bali’s regional security remains conducive. The public intending to head to Bali is advised to prepare valid population documents and ensure they have crossing tickets purchased independently through digital platforms, as physical ticket sales at the port are no longer available.