Children's Citizenship in Indonesia

National Regulations

1. Legal Framework: The primary law governing citizenship in Indonesia is Law No. 12 of 2006 on Citizenship of the Republic of Indonesia.
2. Acquisition of Citizenship:
   • By Birth: A child born to an Indonesian citizen parent is automatically an Indonesian citizen, regardless of the place of birth.
   • Dual Citizenship: Indonesia does not recognize dual citizenship for children. A child with foreign citizenship may lose Indonesian citizenship upon reaching the age of 18 unless they renounce their foreign citizenship.

Procedures for Citizenship Registration

1. Registration of Birth:

   • Where to Register: Birth must be registered at the local Civil Registry Office (Dinas Kependudukan dan Pencatatan Sipil).
   • Documents Required:
     • Birth certificate issued by the hospital or midwife.
     • Parents' marriage certificate.
     • Parents' identification documents (KTP).
   • Timeframe: Registration should be completed within 60 days of birth.

2. Application for Citizenship (if applicable):

   • For children born to one Indonesian parent and one foreign parent, an application for citizenship may be required if the child is not automatically recognized as a citizen.
   • Documents Required:
     • Application form (available at the local immigration office).
     • Birth certificate.
     • Parents' marriage certificate.
     • Parents' identification documents.
   • Submission: Submit to the local immigration office or the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.

Costs

• Birth Registration Fee: Generally free, but may vary by region.
• Citizenship Application Fee: Approximately IDR 1,000,000 to IDR 2,000,000, depending on the complexity of the case and local regulations.

Country-Specific Considerations

1. Documentation: Ensure all documents are in Indonesian or officially translated.
2. Local Variations: Procedures and fees may vary by province or municipality; check with local authorities for specific requirements.
3. Legal Assistance: Consider consulting with a legal expert specializing in immigration and citizenship for complex cases, especially for children with dual nationality issues.
4. Timeframe for Processing: Citizenship applications can take several months; plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Understanding the regulations and procedures for children's citizenship in Indonesia is crucial for parents. Ensure timely registration and compliance with local laws to secure citizenship for your child.