Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Indonesian government is proposing legislative amendments to permit limited dual citizenship for specific individuals whose exceptional talents can significantly contribute to national development.
“Today, I convey to the Parliament that the Indonesian government recommends allowing dual citizenship for specific talents needed by the nation,” President Prabowo Subianto said during his speech on the 2027 Draft State Budget and Financial Note at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta on Friday.
Prabowo noted that millions of Indonesian diaspora live globally, many of whom possess expertise highly sought after by the country, including scientists, doctors, engineers, artificial intelligence experts, researchers, entrepreneurs, artists, and athletes.
He acknowledged that some members of the diaspora have relinquished their Indonesian citizenship for various reasons, such as advancing global careers or accommodating family needs.
Therefore, the head of state argued that Indonesia should not force its brightest minds to choose between pursuing global opportunities and maintaining ties to their homeland.
Still, Prabowo emphasized that the policy will be implemented in a selective and measurable manner. Candidates for dual citizenship will undergo a rigorous screening process, including integrity assessments.
Furthermore, the government will clearly define rights and obligations associated with dual citizenship, prioritizing the protection of national security and strategic interests.
“This limited citizenship policy will call home the best minds of our diaspora and the finest talents to strengthen Indonesia,” Prabowo stated.
Previously, the government granted citizenship to several foreign-born athletes, most notably key players for the Indonesian national football team.
On July 23, 2026, Law and Human Rights Minister Supratman Andi Agtas stated that the government proposed the concept of limited dual citizenship in the revision of the Citizenship Law to harness diaspora talents with strategic expertise.
Related news: BRIN pushes principal researcher rank for Indonesian academics abroad
Related news: Indonesia calls its diaspora to partner in national development
Translator: Prisca Violleta, Uyu Liman
Editor: Arie Novarina
Copyright © ANTARA 2026