Soekarno-Hatta Immigration Thwarts Departure of 264 Non-Procedural Hajj Candidates

TEMPO.CO, Tangerang - The Class I Special Immigration Office at Soekarno-Hatta Airport foiled the departure of 264 non-procedural or illegal Hajj pilgrims who were planning to travel to the Holy Land via Soekarno-Hatta Airport.

"In total, there were 264 non-procedural Hajj pilgrims whom we blocked," said Head of the Immigration Inspection Section (TPI) at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, Jerry Prima, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

Jerry stated that the prevention efforts against the departure of non-procedural Hajj pilgrims were part of the protection of Indonesian citizens abroad. "If anyone departs in a non-procedural manner, we will take preventive measures," he said.

Hundreds of illegal Hajj pilgrims were suspected of not using Hajj visas, but rather work or umrah visas. They failed to depart after Immigration officers checked their visas. "The immigration inspection process focuses on examining passengers to ensure that foreign nationals and Indonesian citizens are not on the blacklist, possess valid and applicable national passports, as well as the visa to the destination country," Jerry said.

The Soekarno-Hatta Immigration Office also optimized immigration inspections through the use of autogate machines.

To tighten foreign passages, especially during the 2025 Hajj season, the Saudi government has also implemented the Electronic Visa policy. Jerry mentioned that visas will no longer be stamped on the passports of Hajj pilgrims or passengers traveling to Saudi Arabia.

"The Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah has issued a notice regarding the Civil Aviation Authority's (GACA Circular) instructions in Saudi Arabia concerning the arrival of passengers at Jeddah airport during the Hajj operational season," he added.

Regarding the instructions, Jerry stated that all airlines are required to ensure and verify the travel documents and tickets of all passengers arriving at King Abdulaziz International Airport, and must comply with the restriction period to enter Mecca for those who do not have a Hajj Visa or official entry permit.

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