Indonesia’s ‘global citizenship’ plan: Who qualifies and what it offers

The initiative, which is expected to formally launch on January 26, is part of Jakarta’s effort to reconnect with its global diaspora while maintaining its long-standing ban on dual citizenship for adults. Indonesia currently allows dual nationality only for children, who must choose a single citizenship when they reach adulthood.

According to Edy Eko Putranto, Director General for Residence Permits at the Immigration Department, at least five people have already applied for the programme, though their applications are still under review.

“We are involving a team to make those reviews first. We have to find out whether these people are eligible or not,” Edy told state news agency Antara.

Who qualifies?

Eligibility for the GCI programme extends beyond former Indonesian citizens. It also includes: Children and grandchildren of former Indonesian nationals, spouses of Indonesian citizens, and children born to marriages between Indonesian citizens and foreigners. However, the programme comes with strict exclusions. It does not apply to individuals from territories that were once part of Indonesia, nor to people linked to separatist movements. Those who have served as civil servants, intelligence officers or military personnel in foreign countries are also barred from applying.

What does it offer?

Successful applicants will receive an unlimited stay permit, allowing them to live and work in Indonesia without the need for repeated visa renewals. While it stops short of full citizenship, the permit provides long-term legal stability and access to employment benefits that many in the Indonesian diaspora have long sought.

Officials have described the scheme as a practical alternative to dual citizenship, balancing national sovereignty concerns with the desire to attract skills, investment and cultural ties from overseas Indonesians.