How to Apply for Indonesia’s Global Citizen Policy

Indonesia is quietly redefining the notion of belonging. Through its Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, the country has unveiled the Global Citizen of Indonesia (GCI) policy.

According to official sources, the GCI framework grants foreign nationals a lifetime permanent residency without requiring them to renounce their original citizenship. Designed for individuals with ancestral ties, familial connections, historical links, or a deep-rooted affinity with Indonesia, the policy has a more fluid, modern interpretation of identity and home.

Acting Director General of Immigration, Yuldi Yusman, describes the initiative as a thoughtful response to the long-standing complexities surrounding dual citizenship. At its core, GCI preserves Indonesia’s legal sovereignty while opening meaningful pathways for diaspora communities and globally connected individuals to contribute to the nation’s evolution.

A seamless, digital-first process

Applications are submitted through Indonesia’s electronic visa platform, where GCI e-visas are fully integrated with immigration systems, whether via autogates or manual checkpoints.

Upon arrival, eligible applicants who complete the required All Indonesia arrival declaration will receive their permanent stay permit (ITAP) within 24 hours, entirely bypassing the need for in-person immigration visits. It’s a system designed for efficiency, reflecting Indonesia’s broader digital transformation.

Who qualifies for GCI?

The program is tailored for a distinct group of applicants, including:

1. Children born to legally recognised mixed-nationality marriages
2. Descendants of former Indonesian citizens (up to the second generation)
3. Foreign nationals married to Indonesian citizens
4. Foreign nationals married to holders of Indonesian residency permits
5. Former Indonesian citizens
6. Individuals with specialised expertise

Key requirements to note

For former citizens and their descendants, eligibility includes proof of financial stability, typically a minimum income of approximately USD 1,500 per month or USD 15,000 annually, alongside an immigration guarantee. This may take the form of investments such as bonds, equities, mutual funds, deposits, or high-value property ownership. Notably, these guarantees are fully refundable, offering flexibility should residency status change.

Family-based applicants, however, are exempt from these financial guarantees. This exemption underscores the policy’s emphasis on preserving family unity and simplifying the process for those with legitimate personal ties to Indonesia.

Meanwhile, individuals applying under specialised expertise require an official endorsement or invitation from a central government institution, as their presence aligns with national priorities.

More details are available on Golden Citizenship Policy Eases Dual Citizenship

Global Citizen vs Golden Visa

While both pathways offer long-term residency, their philosophies diverge.

- GCI: diaspora communities and individuals with deep-rooted national ties.
- Golden Visa: attract foreign investors, with a clear focus on accelerating capital inflow and driving direct economic contribution.

The distinction extends to the structure of residency itself.

- GCI: lifetime residency; holders are only required to report their status every five years.
- Golden Visa: up to ten years, with the possibility of renewal.