Muhammad Aulia Rahman, Jakarta – Applications from foreign nationals seeking Indonesian citizenship have increased in recent years, but approvals have declined sharply as the government tightens naturalization requirements, a senior official said on Thursday.
Widodo, director general of general legal administration at the Law Ministry, said interest in becoming an Indonesian citizen remains strong despite stricter screening.
"Demand and interest in becoming an Indonesian citizen are quite high," Widodo told reporters in Jakarta.
Government data show that 37 naturalization applications were filed in 2020, with 29 approved. In 2021, 63 applications were submitted and 61 accepted, followed by 63 applications in 2022 – all of which were approved. In 2023, 69 people applied and 66 were granted citizenship.
However, the trend shifted sharply in 2024, when 165 applications were filed but only 20 were approved. In 2025, 147 applications have been submitted so far, with just two approvals granted to date.
Widodo argued that the naturalization process is conducted selectively and under strict criteria. Applicants must have lived in Indonesia for at least five consecutive years – or 10 years non-consecutively – obtain clearances from relevant institutions, and secure approval from their country of origin.
"It is not easy to become an Indonesian citizen," he said.
According to Widodo, motivations for seeking Indonesian citizenship extend beyond economic factors to social and cultural considerations. In interviews, some applicants cited Indonesia's friendly society and comfortable social environment as key attractions.
He also noted a rise in applications from mixed-nationality couples and children born to Indonesian citizens and foreign spouses who choose to take Indonesian nationality.
Hundreds of applications remain under review, Widodo said, adding that the government remains committed to safeguarding the integrity and quality of Indonesian citizenship.
"Our process is deliberately strict. It is not easy to become an Indonesian citizen," he reiterated.