In January 2026, the Indonesian Government introduced a new visa programme allowing people of Indonesian origin living abroad to apply for permanent residence. The requirements and processing times for this programme are not yet known in detail.
The GCI programme
Anyone participating in the GCI (Global Citizenship of Indonesia) programme will be able to obtain a lifetime residence permit and therefore enter and leave the country without restrictions. To do so, they will not have to renounce any other nationality. The GCI programme has thus numerous advantages.
Limitations of the GCI programme
Participants in the GCI programme cannot automatically obtain a work permit. They are also not entitled to vote or hold political office.
Who is eligible for the GCI programme?
Those who have been Indonesian citizens in the past are eligible for the GCI programme. The children and grandchildren of former Indonesian citizens are also eligible for the programme. Applicants must prove that they have a minimum monthly income of EUR 1,270 (USD 1,500) and a certain amount of assets. The minimum assets are EUR 12,697 (USD 15,000), but may need to be higher depending on the degree of kinship.
How to participate in the GCI programme?
The application process for the GCI programme takes place entirely online through the Indonesian Immigration Service website.
Why has the Indonesian government created this programme?
With the introduction of the GCI programme, the Indonesian government aims to strengthen ties with the Indonesian diaspora around the world. According to government estimates, there are between 6 and 9 million people of Indonesian origin scattered around the world. In addition, the new programme is in line with a general relaxation and modernisation of Indonesia's visa policy.
Holidays in Indonesia
If you have no family ties to Indonesia but would like to visit the country for a holiday, it is best to apply for a visa for Indonesia. The application procedure takes place entirely online.
At e-Visa.ie you can use an English application form. In addition, you will find a helpful explanation for each field to be filled in. Once you have completed the application form, you will be asked to submit a passport photo, a photo of your passport and confirmation of your return flight.
The average processing time for an Indonesian visa is of 7 days. If you are travelling at short notice, you can submit an urgent application. Urgent applications are approved within an average of 24 hours.
The visa for Indonesia is valid for 90 days from the date of approval, but only allows you to stay in the country for a maximum of 30 consecutive days. For more information about the visa for Indonesia, please refer to the requirements and the validity pages.