The Global Citizenship of Indonesia program is a major new initiative introduced by the Indonesian government to reconnect people of Indonesian origin with their homeland. Under this program, eligible applicants will be allowed to live and work in Indonesia indefinitely, even though the country does not officially recognize dual citizenship.
This move is being seen as a progressive step toward engaging the Indonesian diaspora and strengthening cultural, social, and economic ties with Indonesians living abroad.
What Is the Global Citizenship of Indonesia Program?
The Global Citizenship of Indonesia program is a special residency initiative designed for former Indonesian citizens and their descendants. While Indonesia still legally bans dual citizenship, the government has created this alternative legal status to offer long-term residency and work rights to people with Indonesian roots.
This program allows eligible individuals to stay in Indonesia without the usual visa limitations, making it easier for them to contribute to the country’s development while maintaining their foreign nationality.
Official Launch Date and Current Status
According to foreign media reports, the Global Citizenship of Indonesia program will be formally launched on January 26, 2026. Even before the official launch, interest in the program has already begun.
Indonesia’s Director General of Residence Permits, Edi Aku Patranto, confirmed that at least five applications have already been registered. These applications are currently under review to assess whether the applicants meet the eligibility criteria set by the government.
This early response suggests that the program is likely to attract significant attention from Indonesians living overseas.
Why Indonesia Introduced This Program
Indonesia has a large global diaspora spread across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and North America. Many former Indonesian citizens lost their nationality after acquiring foreign citizenship due to Indonesia’s strict single-citizenship law.
The Global Citizenship of Indonesia program aims to bridge this gap by offering a legal pathway for overseas Indonesians to reconnect with the country without giving up their current nationality.
The government believes this initiative will help attract skilled professionals, investors, and experienced individuals who can contribute to Indonesia’s economy and development.
Who Is Eligible for the Program?
The eligibility criteria for the Global Citizenship of Indonesia program are clearly defined to ensure that the facility benefits people with genuine Indonesian roots.
Eligible applicants include former Indonesian citizens who lost their citizenship due to naturalization in another country. The program also extends eligibility to their direct descendants, including children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren.
Foreign spouses of Indonesian citizens are also allowed to apply, as well as children born to mixed marriages where one parent is Indonesian and the other is a foreign national.
This wide eligibility scope makes the program inclusive for families with Indonesian heritage.
Who Is Not Eligible Under This Program
While the Global Citizenship of Indonesia program is inclusive, the government has also imposed strict exclusions to protect national interests.
Foreigners from countries that were historically part of Indonesian territory are not eligible. Similarly, individuals who have been involved in separatist movements or activities against the Indonesian state will be denied access.
The government has also clarified that people who have served as civil servants, intelligence officers, or military personnel in another country will not qualify for this program. These restrictions ensure that the program remains focused on cultural reconnection rather than political or security concerns.
Key Benefits of the Global Citizenship of Indonesia Program
One of the biggest advantages of this program is the right to live and work in Indonesia indefinitely without the need for frequent visa renewals. This provides long-term stability for eligible individuals and their families.
Participants can engage in employment, business activities, and social life in Indonesia more freely than regular visa holders. The program also offers emotional and cultural benefits by allowing people of Indonesian origin to reconnect with their heritage, traditions, and extended families.
Although it does not grant full citizenship rights, the residency status offers many practical benefits similar to permanent residence.
How Applications Are Being Processed
According to Indonesian authorities, applications submitted under the Global Citizenship of Indonesia program are being carefully reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The government is assessing applicants’ background, family history, and compliance with eligibility rules.
More detailed application guidelines, required documents, and processing timelines are expected to be announced closer to the official launch date in January 2026.
Why This Program Matters Globally
The Global Citizenship of Indonesia program reflects a growing global trend where countries are finding flexible alternatives to strict citizenship laws. By offering long-term residency instead of dual citizenship, Indonesia is balancing national law with global mobility needs.
This move could also inspire other countries with large diasporas to introduce similar programs in the future.
Conclusion
The Global Citizenship of Indonesia program is a forward-thinking initiative that allows people of Indonesian origin to live and work in Indonesia indefinitely without violating the country’s single-citizenship policy. With a clear eligibility framework, strong safeguards, and a focus on diaspora engagement, the program has the potential to strengthen Indonesia’s global connections.
As the official launch approaches in January 2026, interest in this program is expected to grow, especially among former Indonesian citizens and their families seeking a long-term connection with their homeland.
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