HEYBALI – Immigration services in Labuan Bajo are now being processed out of emergency tents rather than the office building itself, after Indonesia’s Immigration Class II Office in the tourism gateway town sustained damage from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck the region on August 15.
Charles Christian Mathaus, head of the Labuan Bajo Immigration Office, confirmed the temporary relocation in a statement Friday evening, August 21, citing ongoing safety concerns tied to aftershocks still affecting the area.
Aftershocks Push a Full Service Relocation
“Considering the safety condition of the building and the potential for further aftershocks, the Immigration Office has arranged an alternative to temporarily relocate immigration services outside the office building, using mobile units and service tents,” Charles said.
The temporary setup is expected to remain in place for the next two weeks. Charles emphasized that despite the makeshift conditions, the office is maintaining standard operating protocols for safety, security, and service quality for both staff and the public. “This outdoor service arrangement will continue for the next two weeks. Implementation will continue to prioritize safety, security, and comfort for both staff and members of the public receiving services,” he said.
Passport and Visa Services Continuing Despite the Disruption
Even under tent conditions, the office processed eight service requests on Friday, August 21 alone: two passport applications and six residence permit requests.
According to Charles, the passport applications were submitted through Indonesia’s M-Paspor digital system, one new application and one replacement request. The six residence permit applications included two Visit Stay Permits (ITK) and four Visa on Arrival (VOA) extensions or conversions.
For foreign residents and travelers in the area with immigration matters pending, whether a visa extension, a passport renewal, or a new application, the tented arrangement means processing continues largely without interruption, though anyone visiting in person should expect to find staff working from tents and mobile units rather than the usual office for at least the next two weeks. The relocation is one of several visible signs of how the Flores earthquake continues to reshape daily operations in Labuan Bajo, even as essential services work to keep functioning through the aftermath.