Jakarta. Indonesia’s dual citizenship alternative has only amassed five applicants so far, despite a nearing launch date, the government revealed Tuesday.

Southeast Asia’s biggest economy is letting its former citizens sign up for an unlimited stay permit instead of dual citizenship. This policy, known as the Global Citizenship of Indonesia (GCI), is set for a grand launch next Monday. The lifetime stay permit is open for former citizens with Indonesian roots.

“There are only five applicants so far. … But we have held virtual meetings with the Indonesian diaspora,” Immigration Minister Agus Andrianto told reporters in Jakarta.

“This program is currently in discussions, and we will continue to make improvements,” Agus said.

The minister’s statement showed that the number of applicants remained unchanged from the government’s announcement in late December. Agus did not go into details on what areas required fixing to attract more candidates. 

Eligible GCI registrants include ex-citizens as well as their children and grandkids. Legal spouses of both former and active citizens may also apply for this scheme. The same goes for children born from a legal marriage between an Indonesian national and a foreigner. 

Applicants have to undergo reviews on whether they tick all the boxes. The GCI is not available for foreigners coming from countries once part of the Indonesian territory, as well as non-nationals involved in separatist activities. Individuals who have worked as civil servants, intelligence officers, or military personnel in other countries can not sign up for the GCI. 

Indonesia does not recognize dual citizenship for adults. Many Indonesians have left the country in search of better opportunities abroad. The GCI took inspiration from Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI). This permanent residency lets people of Indian origin live in the country indefinitely. There are over 4 million OCI cardholders worldwide, but the status does not grant voting rights.

The GCI could enable Indonesia to “attract diaspora with special skills and experience working at foreign companies,” senior economist Bhima Yudhistira said recently. It could even help Indonesia narrow the digital talent gap, which stands at 9 million. However, such a policy would require regulations to ensure there were no changes despite changes in the presidency, according to the analyst.

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