“Red Alert in Indonesia: Britons, Be Prepared for Visa Hiccups!”

Travel Warning Issued for Britons Overstaying Their Visa in Indonesia

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a travel warning for British citizens planning to visit Indonesia, alerting them to the consequences of overstaying their visa. The warning emphasizes the potential financial and administrative repercussions of overstaying, as well as the possibility of detention, deportation, and even a ban on future travel to Indonesia.

According to the FCDO, travelers who overstay in Indonesia could face a daily fine of one million Indonesian rupiah, equivalent to £49.00. The penalty applies for each day beyond the visa’s expiry date, and there is no exception.

The FCDO has emphasized the importance of avoiding overstaying by ensuring that visas are applied for and managed correctly. Travelers are advised to keep track of their visa expiration dates and make arrangements for onward travel before their visa expires.

Consequences of Overstaying

For those who overstay their Indonesian visa, the consequences can be severe. If an individual overstay by more than 60 days, they may face detention and questioning by the Indonesian authorities. In this scenario, deportation is mandatory, and the individual must cover the cost of their deportation flight.

The British Embassy in Jakarta cannot intervene to request deportation to alternative destinations, although family members or friends can assist by arranging flights for those facing deportation. In such cases, British passport holders will be deported to the UK unless they can prove residency in a third country.

Preparation and Prevention

To avoid the potential consequences of overstaying, British citizens visiting Indonesia are advised to:

* Ensure they apply for the correct type of visa and understand its duration and limitations.
* Keep track of their visa expiration date and make arrangements for onward travel before it expires.
* Maintain accurate records of their travel dates, visa applications, and departure dates.
* Familiarize themselves with the local laws and regulations regarding visas and immigration.

Contacting the British Embassy

If an individual or someone they know is detained by the Indonesian authorities, they can contact the British Embassy in Jakarta on +62(0)21 2356 5200 (24 hours). The embassy staff will try to contact the detained person within 48 hours by either visiting them in person or contacting them by phone or video call. The embassy will also help with the application for an emergency travel document if the individual does not have a valid UK passport.

Conclusion

Overstaying a visa can have serious consequences, including heavy fines, detention, deportation, and even a ban on future travel to Indonesia. British citizens planning to visit Indonesia are urged to take steps to avoid overstaying by applying for the correct type of visa, keeping accurate records, and maintaining awareness of the local laws and regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What are the consequences of overstaying a visa in Indonesia?
A: Overstaying a visa can result in heavy fines, detention, deportation, and even a ban on future travel to Indonesia.

Q: How much is the daily fine for overstaying a visa in Indonesia?
A: The daily fine is one million Indonesian rupiah, equivalent to £49.00.

Q: What should I do if I am detained by the Indonesian authorities?
A: Contact the British Embassy in Jakarta on +62(0)21 2356 5200 (24 hours) to report your detention.

Q: Can the British Embassy help me if I overstay my visa?
A: Yes, the embassy can provide assistance with applications for emergency travel documents and deportation arrangements.

Q: Can I be deported to an alternative destination if I overstay my visa?
A: No, the British Embassy cannot request deportation to an alternative destination. However, family members or friends can assist by arranging flights for those facing deportation.