Jakarta, Indonesia(The COW News Digital)Indonesia has introduced a new initiative for individuals seeking closer ties with the country, launching the Global Citizenship of Indonesia program. Applications for the program are now officially open, offering long-term residence and work opportunities for eligible applicants.
According to international media reports, the program targets former Indonesian citizens and their descendants, allowing them to reside and work in Indonesia indefinitely. While Indonesia does not permit dual citizenship, the government has created a special residency status as an alternative for foreign nationals of Indonesian descent.
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The primary objective of the program is to reconnect overseas Indonesians and their families with their homeland, fostering cultural and economic engagement. Authorities confirmed that the program will formally begin on January 26, 2026, and at least five applicants have already registered.
Director-General of Residency Permits, Eddy Aku Putranto, said that incoming applications are being reviewed to verify eligibility. The program is designed to include former Indonesian citizens, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Additionally, foreign spouses of Indonesian citizens and children born to one Indonesian parent and one foreign parent may apply.
However, the government has set clear restrictions on eligibility. Individuals from countries that were formerly part of Indonesia or those involved in separatist activities are not eligible. Similarly, applicants who have served as government employees, intelligence officers, or military personnel in foreign countries are excluded from the program.
The new residency status provides a pathway for individuals with Indonesian heritage to live and work in the country without granting full citizenship. Officials say the program is part of a broader effort to strengthen ties with the Indonesian diaspora and promote investment, talent retention, and cultural exchange.
Experts suggest that the initiative could help Indonesia attract skilled professionals and investors with familial or cultural connections to the nation. By providing legal pathways for residence and employment, the program aims to integrate overseas Indonesians into the local economy while respecting existing citizenship laws.
The launch has been met with enthusiasm from the Indonesian community abroad, with many expressing interest in participating. Authorities continue to encourage eligible individuals to submit applications and prepare supporting documentation to ensure a smooth registration process.
The Global Citizenship program reflects Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening diaspora engagement and leveraging global talent while maintaining clear legal frameworks for residency and citizenship.
