Indonesia Cracks Down on Illegal Accommodation Across Bali, Jakarta, and Key Tourist Spots – New Licensing Rules to Protect Travelers, What to Know Before Your Next Trip

Published on December 23, 2025

Indonesia is taking aggressive measures to combat illegal tourism accommodation services across its top destinations. The government has intensified enforcement actions to regulate the growing number of accommodation providers operating without necessary licenses. With a focus on enhancing service quality, traveler safety, and ensuring fair competition, Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism has emphasized its commitment to a safer and more sustainable tourism industry.

Stronger Enforcement: Cracking Down on Illegal Accommodations

Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism has identified a concerning rise in unlicensed accommodation businesses catering to tourists. To address this issue, authorities have implemented more stringent enforcement of regulations, with the objective of ensuring compliance with tourism accommodation licensing laws. The measures are aimed at maintaining industry standards, enhancing the safety of guests, and bolstering the overall quality of service across the country. Through this initiative, Indonesia hopes to foster a more transparent and fair tourism environment.

What Does the Regulation Mean for Online Travel Agencies?

The government’s stance on online travel agencies (OTAs) like Airbnb and similar platforms has been clarified. While not banning OTAs, the authorities are enforcing regulations that require platforms to verify the licensing status of all listed accommodations. This move is designed to ensure that unlicensed properties are removed from these platforms by March 31, 2026, in compliance with Peraturan Menteri Pariwisata Nomor 6 Tahun 2025. OTAs are expected to support these efforts by removing non-compliant listings and guiding property owners through the registration process.

This regulatory framework aims to create a safer environment for travelers by ensuring that only licensed and compliant properties are advertised online. With travel platforms now part of the enforcement process, tourists can expect more accurate and reliable information when choosing their accommodation in Indonesia.

Collaboration to Boost Compliance and Transparency

In addition to stricter enforcement, the government has called on regional authorities and OTAs to collaborate in the licensing process. The Ministry of Tourism is working closely with these stakeholders to ensure a smooth registration process for accommodation businesses. The government has set up support mechanisms for business owners to help them navigate Indonesia’s Online Single Submission (OSS) system, which is central to obtaining the required licenses.

These collaborative efforts are designed to protect travelers by ensuring that only licensed and regulated businesses are allowed to operate, reducing the risks associated with unregistered accommodations, such as tax evasion or poor safety standards. This will help boost consumer confidence and ensure that the Indonesian tourism industry remains competitive, transparent, and sustainable.

Quality Assurance: Protecting Travelers and Boosting Local Revenue

A major benefit of regulating illegal accommodation is the improvement in tourism safety and service quality. Illegal accommodations often lack basic safety measures, such as proper fire exits, sanitation, and compliance with local building codes, which can jeopardize guest safety. By cracking down on these properties, Indonesia aims to protect travelers and ensure a consistent standard of quality.

Moreover, enforcing legal compliance also helps boost local revenue generation. Registered accommodation businesses contribute to tax revenues and align with national goals for economic development. As more tourism accommodations meet regulatory standards, Indonesia’s tourism sector becomes better equipped to handle growing visitor numbers while supporting local economies.

Traveler Tips: What This Means for Tourists Visiting Indonesia

For travelers planning a trip to Indonesia, these regulations may have a positive impact on their experience. Here are some tips for navigating the new accommodation rules:

• Check for Licenses: Always ensure the property you are booking is licensed. This guarantees compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Use Trusted Platforms: Choose accommodation options from well-known online travel platforms that enforce strict licensing checks.
• Look for Certification: Licensed properties will often display certificates of compliance. This is your assurance of a safe and regulated stay.

Travelers visiting Indonesia can now enjoy peace of mind, knowing that the government is committed to maintaining high standards for all accommodations, which will enhance the overall tourism experience in the country.

A Bright Future for Indonesia’s Tourism Industry

Indonesia’s efforts to regulate illegal tourism accommodation are part of broader initiatives to enhance the sustainability and quality of the tourism sector. As the government continues to enforce these policies, tourists will benefit from improved accommodations, better service standards, and heightened safety measures. These measures not only protect travelers but also ensure that the local tourism economy thrives in a fair and competitive environment.