Backpackers and holidaymakers flocking to Bali’s idyllic shores are now facing the threat of severe prison sentences should they overstay their visas, as Indonesia launches a stringent crackdown on immigration offences.

Previously, tourists who lingered beyond their visa limits in Indonesia were at risk of serving between six months to a year behind bars. However, in a dramatic policy shift announced last week by the Indonesian government, those guilty of overstaying can now be slapped with up to 20 years in prison, or potentially even a life sentence.

With its sprawling archipelago of over 17,000 islands and a population exceeding 275 million, Indonesia is a magnet for sun-worshippers and beachgoers seeking pristine sands and turquoise waters. But, as per the nation’s Director of Immigration Silmy Karim, any visitor caught abusing the visa system or causing “foreigners who disturb public disorder” risks spending an extensive period in a Balinese cell.

Despite visa issues being relatively common among globe-trotters and adventurers, Karim has emphasised a “zero tolerance approach” towards those infringing upon the country’s immigration regulations. The director general of immigration, Silmy Karim, declared: “In essence, we want to ensure that Indonesia is a comfortable destination for tourists and foreign investors who obey the rules.”

He further stated: “On the other hand, immigration supervision is expected to create a safe situation for the Indonesian people, especially from transnational crimes or foreigners who disturb public order.”

Indonesia has ramped up measures to curb overstaying tourists, following the imposition of a new fee on every visitor entering Bali earlier this year. It’s reported that the £7.70 levy intends to tackle the issue of disorderly tourists and relieve the stress on local facilities.

After implementing stricter controls, Indonesia’s immigration department announced on social media: “The Directorate General of Immigration has conducted Operation Jagratara in Bali as an effort to enhance surveillance of foreign nationals. This operation aims to ensure that all foreigners in Indonesia comply with the applicable immigration regulations.

“By involving hundreds of personnel and supported by new patrol vehicles, this operation is expected to create a safe and conducive environment, as well as prevent the occurrence of legal violations by foreign nationals.

“In addition, this operation also aims to maintain Indonesia’s positive image as an attractive tourist and investment destination.”

A force of 125 officers, along with several patrol vehicles, have been appointed to Indonesias immigration enforcement team. They are charged with setting up checkpoints and patrols to confirm if visitors hold valid permissions to remain within the country.