Indonesia introduced Global Citizenship of Indonesia (GCI) in late November 2025 and formally launched it on January 26, 2026. The name sounds like a passport or “dual citizenship,” right? But here’s the key point up front: GCI is not Indonesian citizenship. It’s an unlimited (no end date) stay permit for certain foreigners with strong ties to Indonesia, such as former Indonesian citizens and their families. So, GCI does not grant Indonesian nationality, political rights, or voting rights.

Why does this matter? Indonesia does not recognize dual citizenship for adults. So if someone becomes a citizen of another country, they usually can’t keep Indonesian citizenship either. Under Indonesian law, this restriction has long posed a challenge for the diaspora, and GCI is Indonesia’s approach to addressing it. GCI is modelled after India’s Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) visa, but does not grant the same legal standing or rights.

In this guide, we’ll break down the GCI e-visa indices (E31A/B/C and E32E/F/G/H), who can apply, the official requirements, and the step-by-step application process.

So… what is GCI?

According to Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration (Direktorat Jenderal Imigrasi), Global Citizen of Indonesia (GCI) is a policy that grants “izin tinggal tetap tanpa batas waktu”, a permanent stay permit (ITAP) with no time limit, for eligible foreign nationals who have blood ties, family ties, historical ties, or other strong connections to Indonesia.

Quick definitions (so the terms don’t blur together):

  • ITAP = permanent stay permit (izin tinggal tetap)
  • e-Visa = the online visa you apply for through the official eVisa system
  • Penjamin/sponsor = the guarantor (required in some categories, not all)
  • Jaminan keimigrasian = an immigration “guarantee” that can be refundable, depending on category

Administratively, Immigration states that it is the implementing authority for GCI, and it publishes the official references and guidance on its government portal (.go.id). The Directorate General of Immigration is an echelon-I unit under the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections.

On Immigration’s official “Global Citizen of Indonesia” page, GCI is framed for diaspora and cross-national families, and it highlights three core promises:

  • indefinite stay (ITAP without time limit),
  • instant processing on arrival, and
  • minimal reporting once every five years—stated as “without fee.”

In practice, the “promise” becomes real through the specific visa indices and requirements listed on the official visa pages. Immigration’s launch announcement (January 26, 2026) adds key operational details: applications are submitted online via the eVisa system; GCI e-visas are integrated with border checks (autogate and manual counters); autogate users must complete the “All Indonesia” arrival declaration; and within 24 hours after entering Indonesia, e-Visa GCI holders receive ITAP without needing to visit an immigration office.

Finally, while each GCI category determines immigration eligibility and conditions, anything outside immigration (for example, property ownership rules) is governed by separate regulations and should be verified independently. The most reliable “source of truth” is always the official index page for your visa category.

Why did Indonesia create GCI now?

Immigration official speaking at a podium with the ministry seal, introducing indonesia’s global citizenship of indonesia (gci) program.

Indonesia has long engaged in public debate about dual citizenship, particularly among diaspora communities. Reuters links the timing to “brain drain” concerns: Indonesians moving abroad for better opportunities and then losing Indonesian citizenship. Reuters also notes Immigration data showing that nearly 4,000 Indonesians became Singapore citizens from 2019 to 2022, a figure officials cited as part of the broader talent-migration issue.

The government also openly compares GCI to India’s Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) model, a “citizenship-like” residency status for diaspora members, without a passport. 

Indonesia’s approach can also be compared to Australia’s immigration and dual-citizenship policies, which provide pathways for foreign nationals and expatriates to obtain residency or special status while maintaining their original citizenship. GCI allows individuals to retain their foreign citizenship while gaining long-term residency rights in Indonesia; it is not a pathway to naturalization or Indonesian citizenship. 

The GCI program aims to attract talent and investment, modernize governance towards a more open immigration framework, and enhance Indonesia’s global interconnectedness to support economic growth.

Who can apply (Eligible Applicants)?

Immigration’s official press release lists these groups as eligible to apply for GCI, with family ties (including those from mixed marriage families) being central to eligibility:

  • Former Indonesian citizens (ex-WNI), also referred to as former citizens
  • Descendants of former Indonesian citizens up to the second degree
  • Legal spouses of Indonesian citizens (WNI) or ex-WNI, including foreign spouses
  • Children from legal marriages between an Indonesian citizen and a foreign national, highlighting mixed marriage families

GCI is designed for individuals with confirmed Indonesian biological or ancestral ties.

At the same time, the public “GCI” visa list shown on the official Immigration site focuses on the E32 series (more on that below).

Who is excluded?

The press release also says the permit does not apply to foreign nationals who:

  • are from countries that were once part of Indonesia’s territory,
  • are involved in separatism, or
  • have backgrounds as civil servants, intelligence, or foreign military abroad (as stated in the release).

You’ll also see similar exclusion language listed on the official E32 visa pages themselves.

How Much Does GCI Cost, and How Long Does It Permit?

On the eVisa portal, every GCI options shows the same fee of Rp 34.800.000 and “5 YEARS PLUS (UNLIMITED)” (so your stay is listed as Unlimited). But, remember, that number is the government visa fee shown in the system, it usually doesn’t cover add-ons like sworn translations, document legalization, courier costs, or other document-prep expenses.

The 7 GCI visa types you’ll see on the official site

Blue visa-style cards labeled “ex-indonesian e32e” and “unlimited,” illustrating indonesia gci visa options (e32 series).

On Immigration’s official “Global Citizen of Indonesia” page, GCI is linked to four visa categories: E32E, E32F, E32G, and E32H. The GCI category is a classification within Indonesia’s immigration framework that determines eligibility, fee structures, and requirements for foreign nationals seeking residence or investment options.

Here’s what each one means in normal language:

1) E32E,  Repatriation, Permanent Stay (for ex-Indonesians)

This is for foreign nationals who used to be Indonesian citizens and want to settle in Indonesia.

The official page lists key requirements like:

  • passport valid for at least 6 months,
  • a recent photo,
  • proof you can support yourself, and
  • immigration guarantee documents.

Applicants must also provide financial proof, such as evidence of income and living expenses, to meet the financial criteria set by immigration authorities.

It also lists financial benchmarks, including:

  • Statement of commitment that must be accomplished within 90 (ninety) days from the date of arrival, such as:
    • Purchase Indonesian government bonds with a minimum value of US$5,000 (five thousand United States dollars); or
    • Purchase shares in publicly listed companies in Indonesia with a minimum value of US$5,000 (five thousand United States dollars); or
    • Purchase mutual funds in Indonesia with a minimum value of US$5,000 (five thousand United States dollars); or
    • Place funds as a deposit in a state-owned bank with a minimum value of US$5,000 (five thousand United States dollars); or
    • Purchase property in the form of flats or apartments in Indonesia with a minimum value of US$1,000,000 (one million United States dollars) or the equivalent.
  • Proof that the documents show the foreigner was previously an Indonesian citizen, such as:
    • Identity card (KTP);
    • Birth certificate;
    • Family card;
    • Passport of the Republic of Indonesia;
    • Diploma, or
    • Proof of ownership of the house or land.

The financial commitment for former Indonesian citizens is $5,000, which can be fulfilled through deposits, bonds, shares, or mutual funds in Indonesia.

2) E32G,  Descendant of ex-Indonesians, Permanent Stay

This is for descendants of ex-Indonesians up to the second degree who want to settle in Indonesia.

The baseline requirements are similar (passport 6+ months, photo, proof of funds, etc.).

The official page also lists:

  • Statement of commitment for the descendants of ex-Indonesian citizens at most of the first degree that must be accomplished within 90 (ninety) days from the date of arrival, such as:
    • Purchase Indonesian government bonds, at least US$25,000 (twenty-five thousand US dollars); or
    • Purchase shares in publicly listed companies in Indonesia, at least US$25,000 (twenty-five thousand US dollars); or
    • Purchase mutual funds in Indonesia, at least US$25,000 (twenty-five thousand US dollars); or
    • Place funds in the form of deposits in state-owned banks, at least US$25,000 (twenty-five thousand US dollars); or
    • Purchase property in the form of flats or apartments in Indonesia, at least US$250,000 two hundred fifty thousand US dollars) or equivalent
  • Proof that the documents show the foreigner was previously an Indonesian citizen, such as:
    • Identity card (KTP);
    • Proof of family relationship with an ex-Indonesian citizen, among others:
      • Family card
      • Book of marriage or certificate of marriage issued by the ministry or authorized institution
      • Other documents that prove and explain the family relationship with former Indonesian citizens
    • Curriculum vitae;
    • Proof of income, at least.
      • US$15,000 (fifteen thousand US dollars) per year; or
      • US$1,500 (one thousand five hundred US dollars) per months
  • Proof of income, at least:
    • US$15,000 (fifteen thousand US dollars) per year or
    • US$1,500 (one thousand five hundred US dollars) per month

The financial commitment for first-generation descendants is $10,000, and for second-generation descendants is $25,000. This financial commitment can be fulfilled through deposits, bonds, shares, or mutual funds in Indonesia.

3) E32F,  Repatriation, “Special Skills”

This is still in the repatriation lane, but the guarantee section is different. The official E32F page lists:

  • Valid Nationality Passport with at least 6 (six) months.
  • Proof of living expenses of at least US$2000 (two thousand dollars) or equivalent.
  • Proof of guarantee from the Guarantor, which is the central government.
  • Latest color photograph.
  • Curriculum Vitae.
  • An invitation letter from the government, which explains the hiring of a foreigner who is an ex-Indonesian citizen with special talents.
  • Proof that the documents show the foreigner was previously an Indonesian citizen, such as:
    • Identity card (KTP);
    • Birth certificate;
    • Family card;
    • Passport of the Republic of Indonesia;
    • Diploma, or
    • Proof of ownership of the house or land.
  • Proof of income, at least:
    • US$15,000 (fifteen thousand US dollars) per year; or
    • US$1,500 (one thousand five hundred US dollars) per month;

4) E32H,  Descendant, “Special Skills”

Like E32F, this one also lists:

  • Travel Itinerary.
  • An invitation letter from the government, which explains the hiring of a foreigner who is an ex-Indonesian citizen with special talents.
  • Proof that the documents show a foreigner had a second-degree relationship with an ex-Indonesian citizen, such as:
    • Birth certificate;
    • Proof of family relationship with ex-Indonesian citizens in the following :
      • Family card;
      • book of marriage or certificate of marriage issued by the ministry or authorized institution;
      • other documents that prove and explain the family relationship with former Indonesian citizens
    • Curriculum vitae;
    • Proof of income, at least:
      • US$15,000 (fifteen thousand US dollars) per year; or
      • US$1,500 (one thousand five hundred US dollars) per month;

5) E31A, Spouse of an Indonesian Citizen

If you’re married to an Indonesian citizen and you want to live together in Indonesia, E31A (Diaspora) is the category used for a foreign spouse under the “Family Dependant for Diaspora” pathway in the official eVisa system.

Immigration generally focuses on three things: your identity, proof you can support the stay, and proof the marriage is legally recognized (especially if it was registered outside Indonesia).

Typical documents you’ll prepare:

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months
  • Proof you can cover living expenses
  • Recent color photograph
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Travel itinerary
  • Application/support letter from your Indonesian husband or wife

Proof of a lawful marriage (depends on where it took place):

  • If married outside Indonesia: proof of marriage reporting/registration at an Indonesian Mission (or authorized agency in Indonesia) + marriage certificate translated into Bahasa Indonesia by a sworn translator (translation not required if written in English)
  • If married in Indonesia: marriage certificate/book issued by an authorized Indonesian ministry or institution

6) E31B, Spouse of a Main Visa / Stay Permit Holder

Think of E31B (Diaspora) as the “join your spouse” option when your husband or wife already has a main visa or stay permit in Indonesia. The focus here is less about “qualifying on your own,” and more about proving the relationship and showing the main permit is valid.

Typical documents you’ll prepare:

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months
  • Proof you can cover living expenses
  • Recent color photograph
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Travel itinerary
  • Guarantor letter / statement of commitment from your husband or wife
  • Marriage certificate or marriage book (translated into Indonesian by a sworn translator if not written in English)
  • Copy of your husband or wife’s valid main visa or stay permit

7) E31C, Child of an Indonesian Citizen

E31C (Diaspora) is for a foreign child with an Indonesian parent under the “Family Dependant for Diaspora” pathway. The idea is simple: your documents must clearly connect the child to the Indonesian parent through official birth + family documents.

(This is for a child born from a lawful marriage where either parent is an Indonesian citizen and recognized by the relevant authority/Indonesian mission.)

Typical documents you’ll prepare:

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months
  • Proof you can cover living expenses
  • Recent color photograph
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Travel itinerary
  • Visa application/support letter from the Indonesian parent
  • Family Card (KK) of the Indonesian parent

Proof of birth (one of the following):

  • Birth certificate issued by an authorized government agency, or
  • Proof of birth reporting to an Indonesian Mission or authorized government agency in Indonesia (if the child was born abroad)

Proof of parents’ marriage (depends on where it took place):

  • If married outside Indonesia: proof of marriage reporting/registration at an Indonesian Mission (or authorized agency in Indonesia) + marriage certificate translated into Bahasa Indonesia by a sworn translator (translation not required if written in English)
  • If married in Indonesia: marriage certificate/book issued by an authorized Indonesian ministry or institution

How to apply Global Citizenship of Indonesia

Hands typing on a laptop beside a fresh coconut on a sandy beach, showing an online indonesia gci (global citizenship) application vibe.

Just like e-visa on arrival, you can also apply for GCI on the official immigration website

Here’s the practical flow:

Step 1: Enter the official eVisa system and select the right purpose

Start on Indonesia’s official Immigration eVisa website and log in. On the visa-finder page, select your passport country/region, then choose Diaspora as your main purpose (and sub-purpose if it asks). This step matters because the GCI options appear under the Diaspora pathway; if you choose the wrong purpose, you may not see the E32 codes at all.

Step 2: Choose the correct GCI code

Before you fill out anything, pick the visa code that matches your background. E32E is generally for ex-Indonesian citizens (ex-WNI), meaning you were previously Indonesian, and now you hold another citizenship. E32G is generally for descendants of ex-WNI, meaning you were never Indonesian yourself, but your parent or grandparent was Indonesian (up to second degree), and you can prove the family link.

Now the important warning: E32F and E32H are not “upgrades.” They are the special skills routes, and they typically require a central government invitation/urgency letter as part of the immigration guarantee. So if you don’t already have that government-backed invitation path, E32F/H may not be realistic, and you should usually focus on E32E (ex-WNI) or E32G (descendant) instead.

Quick “Which one am I?” guide (fast check):
If you can honestly say, “I used to be Indonesian, I had Indonesian documents, but I’m now a foreign citizen,” you’re usually an E32E case. If you can honestly say, “My parent/grandparent was Indonesian, but I have always been a foreign citizen,” you’re usually an E32G case. If you can say, “I’m ex-WNI/descendant and I have a central government invitation for special skills,” then E32F (ex-WNI) or E32H (descendant) becomes the correct lane.

Step 3: Use the “Detail” page as your checklist, then fill the form carefully

After you select the code, open the visa Detail page first and treat it like a checklist. This page typically outlines the stay duration, cost, activities available, and required documents. Then fill in the application form: personal identity, passport information, and your address in Indonesia. Most delays happen because details don’t match (spelling differences, inconsistent names, unclear proof of ex-WNI/descendant status), so copy your passport information exactly and upload documents that clearly connect you to the eligibility category you selected.

Step 4: Pay, download your eVisa, and keep a complete file of your submission

Once your form and documents are complete, proceed to payment. After approval, download the eVisa and save it with your payment receipt and the documents you uploaded. Don’t treat payment as the finish line; some GCI paths may include commitments or compliance points on the Detail page. The safest approach is to apply only when you’re ready to meet the requirements listed under your specific E32 code.

Finally, follow the compliance rules after entry. Immigration’s GCI page emphasizes “instant on arrival” processing and says reporting is only needed every five years, and it states that reporting has no fee.

Always refer to official information on the government portal for the latest updates and requirements.

The Easier GCI Route: Visa-Indonesia.com

GCI is still new, and that’s exactly why it can feel confusing. Many applicants encounter long waits, unclear steps, or “what does this field even mean?” moments on the official portal. We’re here to make the process simple, guided, and predictable, without you having to guess.

Here’s what you get when you apply through Visa-Indonesia.com:

  • Guided application (so you pick the right GCI option)
    We help you match your situation to the correct GCI category and prepare the right supporting documents from the start.
  • Document check before submission
    We review your file for common issues, missing links in family documents, translation gaps, unclear scans, or inconsistent details, so you don’t lose time on avoidable back-and-forth.
  • Dedicated support (real humans, not a silent portal)
    If you have a question, you can ask. If Immigration requests something, we help you respond clearly.
  • Visa delivered before departure
    The goal is to have everything ready and approved before you fly, so you’re not traveling with uncertainty.
  • Refund policy available (with terms)
    If something unexpected happens, you have a clearer safety net than a standard self-serve portal experience.
  • More ways to pay, in more currencies
    Pay in EUR, USD, AUD, and more, plus flexible payment options.
  • Multiple payment methods
    Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and bank transfer, so you’re not stuck if one method fails.
  • Apply anytime, anywhere (mobile-friendly)
    Submit from your phone or laptop without fighting a system that can feel clunky, especially during peak periods.

If you want the smoothest route, the biggest benefit is this: you’re not doing a brand-new visa type alone. You get a team that helps you avoid mistakes, reduce delays, and stay informed from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is GCI the same as Indonesian citizenship or an Indonesian passport?

No. The official Immigration page frames GCI as an unlimited stay permit (residency status), not nationality.

Do I have to renounce my current citizenship to get GCI?

No, Immigration explicitly says GCI lets you get an unlimited stay permit “tanpa harus menanggalkan kewarganegaraan” (without relinquishing your citizenship). 

What’s the difference between the “Permanent Stay” and “Special Skills” versions (E32E/G vs E32F/H)?

The Special Skills versions (E32F/E32H) require a central government sponsor, and the immigration guarantee is an invitation/urgency letter from the central government.  The Permanent Stay versions (E32E/E32G) list no sponsor and use financial “commitment” requirements as the immigration guarantee. 

When did applications open, and when is it officially launching?

The Indonesian Immigration began accepting applications ahead of an official launch scheduled for 26 January 2026, and that applications were already under review in late December 2025. 

Are there people who are not eligible even if they have Indonesian roots?

Yes. The E32 pages list exclusions such as:

  • Nationals of countries that were once part of Indonesia’s territory
  • Anyone currently/formerly serving as a civil servant, law enforcement, intelligence, or military abroad
  • Anyone involved in separatism or actions against the national interest

The bottom line

GCI is Indonesia’s “middle path” between no dual citizenship and wanting the diaspora to stay connected. It’s framed as a way to let former Indonesians and certain family lines return and live in Indonesia long-term while keeping their foreign nationality.

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