- Flight Disruptions
- Bali waives overstay fines as flights to Middle East are canceled
Bali waives overstay fines as flights to Middle East are canceled
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Possibly eligible for compensation
By Matteo Floris
Last updated on 4 March 2026
What Happened
Flights from Bali to destinations including Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been canceled since 28 February 2026, leaving travelers stranded. Indonesian immigration has activated emergency measures under Circular Letter No. IMI‑590.GR.01.01 of 2025, waiving overstay fines and offering same-day Emergency Stay Permits (ITKT) at Ngurah Rai Immigration. Applicants must present their passport, an airline cancellation letter, and proof of the canceled ticket. Helpdesks operate at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and the Immigration Office in Jimbaran, with leniency at exit checks for documented cancellations.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.
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Flight Disruption Details
Travelers in Bali destined for Doha, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi have faced widespread flight cancellations since Saturday, 28 February 2026. According to official figures, 1,802 passengers experienced cancellations on 28 February, followed by 1,316 on 1 March and 1,308 on 2 March. The disruptions are linked to regional airspace closures amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.
To protect foreign visitors from visa penalties during this force majeure, the Bali Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration has enacted emergency measures under Circular Letter No. IMI‑590.GR.01.01 of 2025. Overstay fines are being waived for affected tourists, and Emergency Stay Permits (Izin Tinggal Keadaan Terpaksa, ITKT) are available with same-day processing.
Passengers can apply for an ITKT at the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office. Applicants must bring their original passport, a cancellation letter from the airline, and proof of the canceled ticket. As of 2 March 2026, thirty-five foreign nationals had applied for the permit.
For travelers who are unable to arrange an extension before leaving Indonesia, immigration officers are granting leniency at the Immigration Checkpoint. Overstays will be exempt from fines if passengers present a statement from the airport authority or the airline confirming the cancellation.
To assist those affected, helpdesks have been set up on the second floor of the International Departure Terminal at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and at the Immigration Office in Jimbaran. Staff at these locations provide immigration guidance and record data on impacted travelers. Immigration officers are also supporting guests directly at hotels accommodating stranded tourists.
These temporary measures are intended to prevent penalties for visitors whose travel plans have been disrupted by confirmed international flight cancellations to and from the Middle East. Travelers should retain all documentation from airlines or airport authorities to support their applications and to facilitate departure when flights resume.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Cancellation
Cause
Other
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
Possibly eligible for compensation
Airports affected
I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport
Start date
2026-02-28
Checked by
Matteo Floris
Date updated
4 March 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Collect proof that your flight was canceled, e.g. boarding pass, vouchers and any other travel documents.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the cancellation and reasons behind it.
Request an alternate flight to your destination - or a refund.
Make a note of the arrival time at your destination.
Ask the airline to pay for your meals and refreshments.
Don't sign anything or accept any offers that may waive your rights.
Get the airline to provide you with a hotel room, if needed.
Keep your receipts if your canceled flight ends up costing you extra money.
