Antara, Jakarta – Indonesia recently reported a slight increase in its dual citizenship alternative program, as it amassed 11 applicants so far.

The Global Citizenship of Indonesia (GCI) allows former citizens to apply for an unlimited stay permit as long as they meet the criteria. Indonesia does not recognize dual citizenship for adults. Indonesia has launched the program on Nov. 19, 2025, but the government's statements indicated sluggish growth in the GCI hopefuls. The country reported the program had received 5 applicants as of December, and the number remained unchanged as of Jan. 20. Six more people have applied since then.

"It has only been a few months. Of course, this is something we have to work on, so we can gradually meet our diasporas' demand," Edy Eko, a senior official at the Immigration Ministry, was quoted as saying by the state news agency Antara on Wednesday.

The GCI is open for foreigners with Indonesian roots. This includes ex-Indonesian citizens, as well as their children and grandkids. Spouses of Indonesian citizens, as well as former nationals, can apply. The same goes for children resulting from a lawful marriage where one parent is an Indonesian citizen.

"This shows how we are here to provide a solution for the Indonesian diaspora," Edy said.

Applicants do not immediately get their GCI status, but have to undergo reviews first. The GCI is not available for foreigners involved in separatist activities, as well as those who have worked as civil servants, intelligence officers, or military personnel in other countries. Foreigners coming from countries once part of the Indonesian territory also cannot sign up.

The program drew inspiration from New Delhi's Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI), which now has over 4 million cardholders across the globe. This scheme allows foreigners of Indian origin a multiple-entry, lifelong visa.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/indonesias-global-citizenship-now-has-11-applicant