Indonesia Introduces Global Citizenship of Indonesia Permit

Indonesia has launched the Global Citizenship of Indonesia permit, allowing former citizens and people of Indonesian descent to live and work in Indonesia indefinitely. The initiative aims to address dual citizenship challenges and counteract brain drain by encouraging the Indonesian diaspora to contribute to national development.

Indonesia has unveiled the Global Citizenship of Indonesia (GCI) permit for former citizens and people of Indonesian ancestry, partly as an alternative to dual citizenship, according to an immigration ministry official. The move comes as the country does not officially recognize dual nationality for adults.

The GCI policy mirrors India's Overseas Citizenship of India program, enabling eligible individuals to live, work, and contribute to Indonesia indefinitely. Edy Eko Putranto, the director of immigration residence permits, mentioned that this initiative could significantly aid in national development.

Amid rising calls for dual citizenship, especially due to worries over a 'brain drain,' the initiative seeks to leverage the talents and contributions of the Indonesian diaspora. Nearly 4,000 Indonesians adopted Singaporean citizenship recently, underscoring the need for such a strategic response.

(With inputs from agencies.)