Endang Mulyani, Jakarta – Indonesia's diaspora groups have criticized the newly launched Global Citizen of Indonesia (GCI) program, saying its fees and financial requirements risk treating former citizens and their descendants as sources of revenue rather than recognizing their historical and familial ties to the country.
The GCI program, launched on Jan. 26, offers lifetime residence permits to former Indonesian citizens and their descendants – but at a cost. Applicants must pay an official visa fee of Rp 34.8 million ($2,090).
Additional requirements apply to ex-Indonesian citizens and their descendants, including proof of a minimum income of around $1,500 per month or $15,000 per year, as well as a financial guarantee in the form of investments such as bonds, stocks, mutual funds, or high-value property. The guarantee is refundable if the holder ends their stay, while applicants under the family reunification scheme are exempt.
Diaspora groups, including the Indonesian Diaspora Network United (IDN United) and the Indonesian Diaspora Network Global (IDN Global), have warned against the program's approach.
"IDN United and IDN Global firmly reject any policy that treats diaspora communities – including ex-Indonesian citizens – as commercial objects of immigration monetization. The diaspora is not the state's 'ATM.' Their contributions extend far beyond remittances," said Nuning Hallet, executive director of IDN United, on Wednesday.
Although refundable, the required financial deposits create an unreasonable opportunity cost, particularly for diaspora members who already have secure legal status, social security, and economic stability abroad. In a competitive global landscape, diaspora groups say Indonesia must offer policies that attract talent and expertise; otherwise, GCI risks limited practical relevance.
The program has received a lukewarm response. Out of more than 7 million overseas Indonesians, only seven had applied as of Monday, according to government data. Nuning Hallet said the diaspora has several concerns, including a lack of transparency regarding costs and benefits, unclear eligibility for ex-citizens and mixed-marriage families, and uncertainty over long-term legal guarantees.
The program grants permanent residency to foreign nationals with blood, family, or historical ties to Indonesia while allowing holders to retain their original citizenship. Eligible applicants include ex-Indonesian citizens, descendants up to the second degree, spouses of Indonesian citizens, children of mixed marriages, and family members under a family reunification scheme. Applications are fully online via the e-visa system, and applicants receive permanent residency within 24 hours of entering Indonesia, without reporting to immigration offices.
Acting Director General of Immigration Yuldi Yusman said the policy addresses the challenge of dual citizenship while upholding Indonesia's legal sovereignty. "GCI opens opportunities for the diaspora to contribute to various sectors of national development," he said in Tangerang, as quoted by state news agency Antara on Monday.