Indonesia opens its doors for long-term residence to those connected to the country while simultaneously closing the path to full citizenship.
The new immigration policy shows that the government distinctly separates the concepts of "living in the country" and "becoming its citizen".
The main news is the launch of the Global Citizen Indonesia (GCI) program, a kind of 'perpetual visa' for foreigners with Indonesian roots. This is a permanent residence permit that elegantly addresses the issue of dual citizenship: you remain a foreigner on paper but receive almost all the rights of a local resident.
Who can apply for the GCI:
- Former Indonesian citizens
- Descendants of Indonesians up to the second generation
- Spouses of Indonesian citizens (current and former)
- Children of mixed marriages
“GCI addresses the issue of dual citizenship by providing extensive residency rights without changing foreign status,” explains Immigration Minister Agus Andrianto.
At the same time, obtaining citizenship has now become a real quest. Circular letter No. IMI.2-1054.GR.01.01 of 2025 introduced new strict requirements. Candidates must provide:
- Proof of return of all Indonesian immigration documents
- Certificate of renunciation of previous citizenship from a diplomatic representation
- Proof of the return of the passport to the authorities of the home country
The main reason for tightening is “to prevent possible misuse of Indonesian travel documents,” as stated by the head of the visa department of the immigration service, Eko Budiyanto.
Even before the rules were tightened, few foreigners sought Indonesian citizenship. The main reason is the prohibition of dual citizenship. Obtaining an Indonesian passport means permanently renouncing the citizenship of your native country. For most Australians and Europeans who have lived in Bali for decades, this is too high a price.
The new policy demonstrates Indonesia's pragmatic approach: the country is ready to provide maximum comfort to those who want to live and invest here, but becoming a full-fledged citizen is now more difficult than ever. As Minister Agus noted, “Our immigration policy is constantly evolving to keep pace with the times.”
All these changes are happening against the backdrop of large-scale digitalization. The launch of the All Indonesia app is just the first step. Applications for the GCI are also submitted online via evisa.imigrasi.go.id.
Not all ‘our own’ are welcome. Foreigners from former parts of Indonesia associated with separatist activities, as well as former civil servants, scouts, and military from other countries, will not receive the GCI.
For those foreigners who are not yet married to Indonesian citizens but wish to live in Bali long-term, long-term visas remain relevant. Our agents will help you choose and arrange the right visa just for you.
Source: imigrasi.go.id
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