Many Indians dream of living in Indonesia. The tropical climate, friendly people, and growing economy make it an attractive place. But moving to Indonesia permanently is not easy. One big question is: can an Indian citizen become an Indonesian citizen? This article will guide you through the process in simple terms.
Getting Indonesian citizenship takes time, patience, and a clear understanding of the law. In this article, we will explore the steps, the rules, and what you need to do to become an Indonesian citizen if you are from India.
Can Foreigners Become Indonesian Citizens?
Yes, foreigners can become citizens of Indonesia. However, the country has strict rules. It does not allow dual citizenship for adults. If you become an Indonesian citizen, you must give up your Indian passport. This is an important point to understand before starting the process.
Why Would an Indian Want Indonesian Citizenship?
There are many reasons:
Work opportunities in Indonesia
Marriage to an Indonesian citizen
Long-term residence and business plans
Love for Indonesian culture and lifestyle
Education and raising a family in the country
Whatever your reason is, it’s important to follow the correct legal steps.
The Basic Requirements
To apply for Indonesian citizenship, a foreign national must meet several conditions. The main requirements include:
Minimum age of 18 or already married.
Legal stay in Indonesia for at least five years in a row, or ten years total.
Able to speak Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia).
Respect local customs and culture.
Be mentally and physically healthy.
Have a steady income or job in Indonesia.
No criminal record.
Willing to give up your current citizenship.
Swear loyalty to the Republic of Indonesia.
These rules apply to most applicants. However, there are some exceptions in special cases.
Types of Naturalization
There are two main ways to get Indonesian citizenship:
1. Regular Naturalization
This is for people who have lived in Indonesia for a long time. If you are working, running a business, or simply residing in Indonesia for over five years continuously (or ten years total), you may qualify. You must prove you are a good resident and plan to stay permanently.
2. Citizenship by Marriage
If you are married to an Indonesian citizen, you can apply after living in Indonesia for two continuous years. You must stay married during this time. If your spouse dies or the marriage ends before two years, you may not qualify. This route is faster, but still needs legal documents and approval.
Step-by-Step Guide for Indians
Now let’s walk through the process for an Indian citizen to apply for Indonesian citizenship.
Step 1: Stay Legally in Indonesia
First, you need to live in Indonesia legally. Most people start with a visa, then get a temporary stay permit (KITAS), followed by a permanent stay permit (KITAP). You must stay for five years straight, or ten years in total.
For those married to Indonesians, the rule is different. You can apply after two years of living in the country with your spouse.
Step 2: Learn Bahasa Indonesia
This is a very important step. You will be tested during the application process. Start learning the language as soon as possible. You should be able to speak, read, and understand daily conversations in Bahasa Indonesia.
Step 3: Show Good Conduct
You must not have a criminal record. A police clearance certificate from both India and Indonesia will be required. You should also be known as a good resident in your neighborhood.
Step 4: Show Financial Stability
The Indonesian government wants to know that you can take care of yourself. This means showing proof of income, employment, or business. You need to submit tax records, bank statements, or work contracts.
Step 5: Prepare Documents
Here are the common documents required:
Passport and valid visa
Birth certificate
Marriage certificate (if married to an Indonesian)
Stay permits (KITAS/KITAP)
Language test result
Proof of income
Health certificate
Police clearance
Statement of giving up Indian citizenship
Declaration of loyalty to Indonesia
Each document must be translated into Bahasa Indonesia and certified.
Step 6: Submit the Application
You need to submit your application to the Ministry of Law and Human Rights. You can do this through the local immigration office. They will check your documents and forward them to the ministry.
Step 7: Citizenship Interview
You will be called for an interview. You must answer questions about your life in Indonesia, your plans, and show your language skills. This is a key part of the process.
Step 8: Wait for Approval
After the interview, your application will be reviewed. It can take several months. If approved, the president of Indonesia will issue a decision granting you citizenship.
Step 9: Renounce Indian Citizenship
Once you get approval, you must give up your Indian citizenship. India does not allow dual citizenship either. You will need to inform the Indian embassy and complete the renunciation process.
Step 10: Take the Oath
Finally, you must take an oath of loyalty to Indonesia. This is done in a ceremony at the local government office. After this, you become an Indonesian citizen officially.
Can Children Have Dual Citizenship?
Yes, but only under certain conditions. Children born to an Indian and an Indonesian parent can hold both nationalities until the age of 18. After that, they must choose one.
This rule gives families time to decide what is best for their children. It is important to inform the authorities and register the child’s dual status correctly.
Special Notes for Indians
There is no special agreement between India and Indonesia for citizenship. You must follow the same rules as other foreigners. However, many Indians have successfully become citizens by:
Marrying Indonesians
Working in Indonesia for many years
Investing and starting businesses
Becoming respected members of the local community
You must be honest and follow all immigration laws. Breaking any rules can lead to rejection or even deportation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some mistakes that can cause problems:
Staying in Indonesia without proper documents
Not learning Bahasa Indonesia
Using fake documents
Not paying taxes
Getting into legal trouble
Not giving up Indian citizenship in time
To avoid these, work with a good immigration lawyer or advisor if needed. Also, keep records of everything.
Is It Worth It?
Becoming an Indonesian citizen means you can live, work, and travel in the country freely. You can buy property, vote in local elections, and become part of society. But you must also give up your Indian passport and follow Indonesian laws.
If you love Indonesia and plan to stay for life, it can be a good choice. But think carefully before making this big decision.
Conclusion
Getting Indonesian citizenship is not easy, but it is possible for Indians. If you follow the rules, stay patient, and show your commitment to the country, you have a good chance. Remember, the process is about more than just paperwork—it’s about becoming part of the Indonesian family.
Take your time, prepare well, and ask for help when needed. Whether through marriage, work, or long-term residence, your path to becoming an Indonesian citizen starts with small steps and a strong will. Good luck on your journey!
Related topics:
- Can an Immigrant Get a Passport?
- How Long Does an Immigrant Visa Interview Take?
- Who Should You Contact for Help with Immigration Issues?
