Citizenship and Naturalization in Indonesia: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Legal Framework

• Law No. 12 of 2006: This is the primary legislation governing citizenship in Indonesia. It outlines the conditions for acquiring, losing, and regaining Indonesian citizenship.

2. Types of Citizenship

• By Birth: Individuals born to an Indonesian parent are automatically Indonesian citizens.
• Naturalization: Foreigners can acquire Indonesian citizenship through a naturalization process.

3. Eligibility for Naturalization

• Must be at least 18 years old or married to an Indonesian citizen.
• Must have resided in Indonesia for a minimum of 5 consecutive years or 10 non-consecutive years.
• Must be able to speak Indonesian and understand the basic principles of the state.
• Must have a clean criminal record.
• Must have a stable income or employment.

4. Application Process

1. Prepare Required Documents:

   • Valid passport.
   • Birth certificate.
   • Proof of residence in Indonesia.
   • Employment or income verification.
   • Police clearance certificate.
   • Statement of loyalty to the Indonesian state.
   • Other documents as required by the Directorate General of Immigration.

2. Submit Application:

   • Applications are submitted to the local immigration office or the Directorate General of Immigration.

3. Interview:

   • Applicants will undergo an interview to assess their knowledge of the Indonesian language and culture.

4. Approval Process:

   • The application will be reviewed by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.
   • If approved, the applicant will receive a decree of citizenship.

5. Oath of Allegiance:

   • New citizens must take an oath of allegiance to Indonesia.

5. Costs

• Application Fee: Approximately IDR 1,000,000 to IDR 5,000,000 (varies by region and specific circumstances).
• Additional Costs: May include fees for document preparation, translation, and legal assistance if needed.

6. Country-Specific Considerations

• Dual Citizenship: Indonesia does not recognize dual citizenship for adults. Naturalized citizens must renounce their previous citizenship.
• Cultural Integration: Understanding local customs and norms is crucial for successful integration.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Bahasa Indonesia is essential for the application process and daily life.

7. Timeline

• The naturalization process can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the complexity of the case and the efficiency of the local immigration office.

8. Post-Citizenship

• Once citizenship is granted, individuals can apply for an Indonesian identity card (KTP) and passport.

9. Resources

• Directorate General of Immigration: Website
• Ministry of Law and Human Rights: Website

This guide provides a structured overview of the citizenship and naturalization process in Indonesia. Ensure to check for any updates or changes in regulations before proceeding with your application.