Citizenship for Foreign Spouses in Indonesia

Overview

Foreign spouses of Indonesian citizens may apply for Indonesian citizenship under specific conditions. The process is governed by Law No. 12 of 2006 on Citizenship of the Republic of Indonesia.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Marriage Duration: The foreign spouse must have been married to an Indonesian citizen for at least 5 years.
2. Residency Requirement: The applicant must have resided in Indonesia for a minimum of 5 consecutive years or 10 non-consecutive years.
3. Good Conduct: The applicant must demonstrate good conduct and not have a criminal record.
4. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the Indonesian language is required.
5. Financial Stability: Proof of financial stability or employment may be required.

Application Process

1. Gather Required Documents:

   • Valid passport
   • Marriage certificate (translated into Indonesian if necessary)
   • Proof of residency (e.g., KTP, residence permit)
   • Certificate of good conduct from the home country
   • Evidence of financial stability (bank statements, employment letters)
   • Language proficiency certificate (if applicable)

2. Submit Application:

   • Applications are submitted to the Directorate General of Immigration or the local immigration office.
   • Complete the application form for citizenship.

3. Interview Process:

   • Attend an interview where the applicant’s background, marriage, and intentions will be assessed.

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:

   • The final step involves taking an oath of allegiance to Indonesia.

Costs

• Application Fee: Approximately IDR 1,000,000 to IDR 5,000,000 (varies by region and specific circumstances).
• Translation and Notarization: Costs for document translation and notarization can vary widely, typically ranging from IDR 500,000 to IDR 2,000,000.
• Legal Assistance: If hiring a lawyer, fees can range from IDR 5,000,000 to IDR 20,000,000 depending on the complexity of the case.

Timeline

• The entire process can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the completeness of the application and the workload of the immigration office.

Unique Considerations

• Dual Citizenship: Indonesia does not recognize dual citizenship for adults. Foreign spouses must renounce their original citizenship upon acquiring Indonesian citizenship.
• Cultural Integration: Understanding Indonesian culture and customs can facilitate the application process and integration into society.
• Legal Assistance: It is advisable to consult with a legal expert specializing in immigration law to navigate the complexities of the application process.

Conclusion

Foreign spouses seeking Indonesian citizenship must meet specific criteria and follow a structured application process. It is essential to prepare all required documents thoroughly and be aware of the costs and potential timelines involved.