New GCI program offers lifelong residency to Indonesians abroad without changing nationality
Indonesia is taking a strategic step to reconnect with its global diaspora, rolling out a new residency scheme that offers long-term belonging without changing citizenship laws.
A New Pathway Without Dual Citizenship
Indonesia has officially begun accepting applications for the Global Citizenship of Indonesia (GCI) program ahead of its formal launch on January 26, 2026. The initiative grants eligible foreign nationals an unlimited stay permit, allowing them to live and work in Indonesia indefinitely without altering their existing citizenship. The move reflects Jakarta’s effort to address long-standing issues surrounding dual citizenship, which remains prohibited for adults under Indonesian law.
Early Applications Under Review
Immigration authorities confirmed that at least five applications have already been submitted and are undergoing evaluation. Acting Director General of Immigration Yuldi Yusman said on December 29, 2025, that applications are now under initial review by a special evaluation team. Director General for Residence Permit Edy Eko Putranto added that the government is carefully assessing eligibility to ensure applicants have genuine and strong ties to Indonesia, according to state news agency Antara.
Who Is Eligible and Who Is Not
The GCI program is open to former Indonesian citizens, as well as their children and grandchildren. Spouses of Indonesian citizens and children born from mixed marriages between Indonesian citizens and foreigners are also eligible. However, the program excludes foreigners from territories that were once part of Indonesia, as well as individuals involved in separatist activities. Those who have served as civil servants, intelligence officers, or military personnel in foreign countries are also barred from applying.
Strengthening Ties With the Global Diaspora
Authorities have positioned the GCI as a tool to strengthen Indonesia’s relationship with its overseas community. By offering lifelong residency instead of dual citizenship, the government aims to encourage diaspora members to contribute economically, socially, and culturally without legal conflicts over nationality. Immigration officials emphasized that the policy will be implemented through inter-agency coordination to ensure regulatory clarity and security.
Inspired by India’s Overseas Citizenship Model
The Indonesian government has acknowledged that the GCI draws inspiration from India’s Overseas Citizenship of India scheme. The OCI program provides foreigners of Indian origin with a lifelong, multiple-entry visa and has attracted more than 4 million cardholders worldwide. Indonesian policymakers see a similar opportunity to leverage their global diaspora while maintaining national citizenship principles.
Formal Launch Set for Early 2026
While applications are already being processed, the GCI program is expected to be formally introduced during Immigration Service Day in early 2026. Officials stress that the current review phase is crucial to setting standards and ensuring the program aligns with Indonesia’s broader immigration and national security framework.
The Global Citizenship of Indonesia program signals a pragmatic shift in how the country engages its diaspora, balancing national sovereignty with global connectivity. For Indonesians abroad and regional partners such as Singapore, the policy highlights Indonesia’s growing openness to talent mobility, long-term investment, and deeper cross-border ties in Southeast Asia.
Sources: Jakarta Globe (2025) , Polri.go.id (2025)
Keywords: Global Citizenship Indonesia, Indonesian Diaspora Policy, Unlimited Stay Permit, Immigration Reform
