Indonesia has introduced a significant update to its immigration framework, offering new long-term and permanent stay permits under the Global Citizenship Indonesia (GCI) scheme. These changes directly impact former Indonesian citizens and their descendants. Employers, HR leaders, and global mobility teams should assess potential eligibility for affected employees or family members and monitor operational developments.
The GCI scheme introduces six visa categories tailored to Indonesian diaspora members, emphasizing ancestral ties rather than employment or investment:
- E32A – Former Indonesian Citizens (5-year stay permit)
- E32B – Descendants of Former Citizens (5–10-year stay permit)
- E32E – Former Citizens eligible for Permanent Stay
- E32G – Second-Degree Descendants eligible for Permanent Stay
- E31B – Spouse of Permanent Stay Permit Holder (Permanent Stay)
- E31C – Child of an Indonesian Citizen (Permanent Stay)
These permits do not recognize dual citizenship and are available to applicants renouncing foreign nationality or holding exclusive foreign citizenship through ancestral eligibility.
The GCI visa options are now live in the Indonesian Visa Online System. However, standard processing procedures are not yet confirmed by the Directorate General of Immigration (DGI). As a result, submitted applications may be accepted for review, or placed on hold pending issuance of a formal Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). Based on preliminary feedback, applicants may be required to attend an “expose session” (in-person or virtual interview) with a DGI officer. No official circular has been issued on this potential step.
Implications for Global Mobility
These updates represent a valuable long-term immigration route for former Indonesian nationals and their families—particularly for personal relocations, return migration, or family reunification. Employers should note that the GCI permits are not designed for foreign hires or work-sponsored mobility, as eligibility is tied to lineage and nationality history, not employment.
Next Steps
- Monitor for regulatory circulars from Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration.
- If applicable, assess individual eligibility for employees or dependents within the scope of the GCI scheme.
- Prepare for potential administrative delays and evolving procedural requirements.
Newland Chase continues to monitor the implementation of the GCI visa pathway and will provide updates as soon as further guidance becomes available. For case-specific support or to evaluate eligibility, please contact your Newland Chase representative.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
