The airspace closure across the Middle East has triggered travel chaos worldwide. Hundreds of thousands of travelers are stranded and awaiting further instruction, as many countries are issuing evacuation orders for citizens currently in the Middle East.
Bali is no exception. With tourists stranded due to flight cancellations, Indonesian immigration is stepping in to make it easier for them to obtain emergency stay permits.
Ngurah Rai Immigration has issued important updates for foreigners stuck in Bali due to flight cancellations linked to the conflicts unfolding in the Middle East.
The joint statement from Ngurah Rai Immigration and Bali Airport explains, “In light of the recent security dynamics in the Middle East, which have resulted in disruptions and cancellations of several international flight schedules, the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office is providing information regarding emergency immigration services for affected Foreign Nationals.”
The statement continues “Based on Circular Letter Number IMI-590.GR.01.01 of 2025 by the Directorate General of Immigration, it is conveyed that foreign nationals who have cleared exit immigration but must re-enter Indonesian territory due to force majeure events-such as natural or non-natural disasters (floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, disease outbreaks/epidemics/ pandemics, war, or threats of terrorism) which result in the aircraft returning to an airport in Indonesia —will receive immigration handling in accordance with the prevailing regulations.”
A series of solutions has been put in place to support travelers, and more immigration staff have been made available during each shift. Ngurah Rai Immigration has shared, “In response to the situation, the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office has established the following technical measures: Immigration Officers at Ngurah Rai Airport will manually and systematically cancel departure stamps for foreigners required to re-enter Indonesia. Affected passengers are entitled to an Emergency Stay Permit (ITKT) with a maximum validity of 30 days, and may be extended in accordance with applicable provisions. It may be issued at the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office.”
The statement explains further Overstay resulting from such circumstances shall be subject to a tariff of Rp0,00 (zero rupiah), provided that an official statement letter from the airline or airport authority is submitted.” Concluding “This policy aims to provide legal certainty and lawful immigration services for Foreign Nationals in emergency situations.”
By 3rd March, more than 4,500 passengers had been stranded at Bali Airport due to flight cancellations to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha.
Only 54 people had had to apply for the ITKT by that point, though far more applications are anticipated.
It is important to note that this policy applies only to those who have been stamped out of Indonesia and had their flight canceled at the last minute.
Tourists who suspect that they will encounter flight cancellations or delays are highly advised to submit a visa extension application as soon as possible.
An emergency stay permit can be applied for in other circumstances, but if a tourist visa is nearing its expiration, it is highly recommended to submit an extension application as soon as possible.
Ultimately, responsibility lies with each individual traveler. It is essential to contact Indonesian Immigration directly to understand the steps required in your specific situation.
Similarly, consultancies and embassies are issuing advice around the clock as the situation continues to unfold. It is important to regularly check updates directly from Indonesia Immigration, Bali Airport, airlines, embassies, and foreign offices, as well as with insurance providers.
Airspace closures and the conflict in the Middle East are impacting many Balinese families who are trying to contact and support the evacuation of their loved ones who had emigrated to the region for work.
An update from officials in Tabanan Regency confirmed they are supporting the families of 14 people seeking assistance to return to Bali from Jordan and the UAE. Officials in Gianyar Regency have confirmed that they are working to support families who have loved ones working in Kuwait.
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