The Government Is Formulating A Citizenship Policy To Facilitate The Entry Of The Diaspora Into Indonesia

ANTARA/HO-Kementerian Hukum RI

The Government Is Formulating A Citizenship Policy To Facilitate The Entry Of The Diaspora Into Indonesia

Wednesday, 12 Feb 2025

The Indonesian government is currently formulating several policies related to citizenship that aim to facilitate the entry of the diaspora into Indonesia to contribute to national development.

During a discussion with the Indonesian diaspora in London, England, on Saturday (February 8), the Minister of Law and Human Rights, Supratman Andi Agtas, stated that one of the proposed policies is similar to the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) mechanism implemented by the Indian government, which includes lifelong visas, ease of employment, property ownership, and scholarships.

"The Ministry of Law and Human Rights has conducted comparative studies, including the OCI mechanism, which provides numerous benefits for the Indian diaspora to enter their country," Supratman confirmed in Jakarta on Monday.

Supratman explained that this scheme could be adapted by adjusting the regulations in Indonesia.

In addition to various policies, he emphasized that the Indonesian government aims to enhance the role of the diaspora in national development through the transfer of knowledge and technology, the institutionalization of productive culture, and investment in Indonesia.

Regarding investment, he mentioned that the Ministry of Law and Human Rights will coordinate with the Ministry of Investment/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) to explore opportunities for the diaspora to invest in specific sectors in Indonesia.

He acknowledged that this initiative responds to previous proposals from the diaspora seeking to invest as easily as domestic investors.

Supratman further noted that additional facilitation will be provided by the government to the diaspora concerning employment requirements in Indonesia. The Ministry of Law and Human Rights will propose changes to the requirements and criteria for Foreign Workers (TKA) to ensure that the diaspora receives special conditions.

Moreover, he added that in the future, all ministries/agencies involved in serving the diaspora will have an integrated information system. This will streamline and expedite services provided to the diaspora.