JAKARTA – In an effort to address the issue of dual citizenship, Indonesia has launched a program that allows former Indonesian citizens to reside and work in the country indefinitely. The decision comes as Indonesian law does not permit dual citizenship for adults, requiring individuals to choose one nationality upon reaching the age of 18. Known as the Global Citizenship of Indonesia (GCI), this new initiative is inspired by India’s Overseas Citizenship policy, enabling individuals with Indonesian heritage to live in the country permanently.
According to Mr. Is Edy Eko Putranto, director of immigration residence permits at the ministry, ‘GCI serves as a strategic solution to the challenges posed by dual citizenship, offering a limitless stay permit to foreign nationals with strong connections to Indonesia.’ Eligible applicants include former Indonesian citizens, individuals of Indonesian descent up to the second generation, and children of mixed marriages.
Concerns regarding a potential brain drain have been raised as many Indonesians seek better opportunities abroad. Data from the Directorate General of Immigration revealed that almost 4,000 Indonesians acquired Singaporean citizenship between 2019 and 2022. With a population of 280 million, Indonesia ranks as the fourth most populous nation globally.
Mr. Putranto emphasized the ministry’s response to the brain drain issue, stating, ‘We view this as an opportunity to provide a special privilege to the diaspora, allowing Indonesian talents to return or contribute remotely.’ By enabling former citizens to have an open-door policy, Indonesia aims to retain its skilled workforce and foster national development.
Diverse perspectives are emerging on the topic, with some advocating for a reevaluation of the dual citizenship policy to address changing migration patterns. The GCI initiative marks a significant step towards accommodating the needs of individuals with ties to Indonesia while promoting a more inclusive and globally connected society.
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