Indonesia’s New Global Citizenship Plan Aims to Lure Back Diaspora Talent
Indonesia has introduced a long-awaited permanent residency programme designed to strengthen its relationship with citizens living abroad and attract skilled global professionals. While the move has been welcomed as a significant step toward modernising Indonesia’s immigration policies, analysts believe that remaining restrictions could still discourage many members of the diaspora from returning.
The Global Citizenship of Indonesia programme, launched on November 19, is being described as Jakarta’s closest attempt yet to address the long running debate over dual citizenship. For decades, Indonesian communities overseas have urged the government to allow dual nationality, arguing that it would help families maintain ties to their homeland while still building opportunities abroad. However, concerns over legal implications, political sensitivities and national identity have repeatedly stalled efforts to introduce such a policy.
By offering a permanent residency scheme instead, the government hopes to bridge the gap. Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto presented the programme as a practical response to the dual citizenship dilemma. He explained that the initiative will allow Indonesians abroad to retain strong links to the country without requiring them to renounce their foreign citizenship. In theory, the system is meant to give global Indonesians a sense of belonging while allowing the country to tap into their expertise.
Observers say the plan could help Indonesia attract talent with international work experience in fields such as technology, finance, education and healthcare. Many believe that members of the diaspora who have succeeded in global industries could return to mentor local professionals, share knowledge and strengthen business partnerships. The programme could also appeal to foreign investors or entrepreneurs who want stable long term access to the Indonesian market.
However, critics argue that certain limitations might reduce the scheme’s appeal. For instance, while the programme promises permanent residency, it does not fully match the rights granted by dual citizenship. Some members of the diaspora worry that they will still face obstacles in owning property, investing in specific sectors or accessing public services. Others point out that the application process may be costly or bureaucratic, creating barriers for those who want to take advantage of the new policy.
There is also concern about how the programme will be implemented across different government agencies. In the past, the inconsistent interpretation of immigration rules has confused Indonesians returning from abroad. Analysts warn that unless the GCI programme is introduced with clear guidelines and efficient processing, interest may diminish over time.
Even so, there is optimism that the initiative marks an important shift in Indonesia’s approach to global mobility. Policymakers have increasingly recognised the value of overseas Indonesians not only as individuals with emotional ties to home but also as contributors to national progress. The new programme reflects a broader intention to make Indonesia more open, connected and competitive in a global environment.
For now, the launch of the Global Citizenship of Indonesia programme has sparked renewed conversation within the diaspora community. Some see it as the first meaningful step toward more inclusive citizenship rules, while others remain cautious. Whether the scheme can truly encourage large numbers of Indonesians abroad to return will depend on how effectively Jakarta addresses the remaining concerns.
