A Guide to the Global Citizen of Indonesia Program

In January 2026, Indonesia formally launched the Global Citizen of Indonesia (GCI) program in Jakarta, marking a significant step in how the country reconnects with its global community. Designed primarily for the Indonesian diaspora and those with strong familial ties to the country, the program introduces a new long-term residency pathway worth understanding.

Understanding the GCI 

The GCI is a permanent residency status with no expiry date. It allows eligible individuals to live in Indonesia indefinitely, without the recurring renewals required under standard visas or KITAS permits.

What it does not do is equally important: the GCI is not Indonesian citizenship. Holders retain their existing nationality and passport, and do not gain political rights such as voting or eligibility for public office. This distinction is particularly important in a country that does not permit dual citizenship for adults, the GCI is designed to offer long-term stability without requiring that trade-off.

Why Indonesia Created the Program 

The GCI addresses a long-standing gap for Indonesians living abroad. Many former citizens lost their nationality after naturalising in another country, leaving them without a straightforward path to return for extended stays or retirement.

At the same time, mixed-nationality families and descendants of Indonesian citizens have often faced limitations when trying to maintain a lasting connection with the country.

The program aims to resolve this by strengthening ties with the diaspora, supporting family reunification, and encouraging long-term social and economic engagement with Indonesia. In essence, it offers a formal pathway for individuals who already have deep-rooted connections to the country.

Who Is Eligible 

 The GCI is selective, intended for those with demonstrable ties to Indonesia. Eligible groups generally include: 

• Spouses of Indonesian citizens or former citizens 

• Children from mixed marriages involving an Indonesian parent 

• Former Indonesian citizens who lost citizenship after naturalising abroad 

• Children and grandchildren of former Indonesian citizens 

Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis, and the program includes exclusions for national security and policy reasons. 

Key Benefits 

For those who qualify, the GCI offers several practical advantages. 

Indefinite residency is the headline benefit, a permanent stay permit with unlimited validity, ending the cycle of renewals that many long-term residents find burdensome. 

Alongside this, the program includes a multiple exit and re-entry permit, giving holders the freedom to travel in and out of Indonesia without jeopardising their residency status. Note that while the residency itself does not expire, the re-entry permit may still require periodic administrative renewal. 

Together, these features give retirees, returning diaspora members, and settled families a level of predictability and peace of mind that shorter-term permits simply cannot offer. 

How to Apply 

Applications are submitted through Indonesia's official eVisa system, which consolidates immigration processes into a single digital platform. Requirements vary by applicant category but may include: 

• Proof of lineage or prior Indonesian citizenship 

• Civil status documentation, such as marriage or birth certificates 

• Evidence of financial stability or a financial guarantee 

• Payment of government processing fees 

Given that immigration regulations continue to evolve, seeking professional advice before applying is strongly recommended. 

Important Limitations 

The GCI expands residency rights, but it does not override existing Indonesian law in several key areas. Formal employment may still require separate work permits. Property ownership remains subject to foreign ownership restrictions. And political participation continues to be reserved exclusively for citizens. 

These limitations are worth factoring into any long-term planning before making the move. 

Planning for the Long Term 

Choosing to settle in Indonesia is about more than just immigration status; it also means thinking through healthcare, financial security, and lifestyle continuity across borders. Long-term residents should ensure their health coverage keeps pace with their plans, both locally and internationally.