Misuse of Border Passes can lead to sanctions or even imprisonment

Border Passes are issued only to community members from the three Districts and only to those living right on the border of Indonesia, especially Atambua and misuse may lead to sanctions and even imprisonment.

“Should people not abide by the rules, they are fined US$50 and may be sentenced to one year’s imprisonment in accordance with the Law on Immigration and Exile,” said Maria de Fátima de Araújo, National Director for Notary and Registry (10/07), at the  Nicolao Lobato Airport, Comoro, Dili.

The Director also mentioned the Border and Immigration Police would be monitoring the use of the Border Passes. 
“Once people use the Border Passes to travel, they get registered at the Immigration Department and are monitored to ensure they don’t exceed the three day limit,” said the Director.

MP Manuel Tilman said this assurance was important to make sure people complied with the existing laws. 
“I think control is necessary, however I don’t believe anyone is flouting the law,” said MP Tilman.