Minister Supratman: Limited dual citizenship proposal prioritises diaspora, not only foreigners

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has emphasised that the proposed legislative changes to introduce limited dual citizenship for select talents are not intended solely for foreign nationals. The statement addressed concerns raised by representatives of the Diaspora Indonesia Institute during the ‘Pasti Ada Solusi’ programme in Jakarta on Friday (21/8/2026).

“The President, in his state address yesterday, never once mentioned that the proposal was only for foreigners,” Supratman said.

On the contrary, he said, the President stressed that if any diaspora members meet the qualifications for limited dual citizenship, they would be given priority. During the programme, Frank Simarmata, a representative of the Diaspora Indonesia Institute, voiced concerns about reports that the planned limited dual citizenship for select talents would only apply to foreign nationals, and about the lack of detailed regulations on the matter.

In principle, Supratman affirmed that Indonesia adheres to the principle of single citizenship. However, over time, he noted that dual citizenship in Indonesia is currently granted on a limited basis to children of mixed marriages under Law Number 12 of 2006 on Citizenship, up to a certain age before they must choose.

Most recently, the President has expressed a desire to grant limited dual citizenship to select talents deemed capable of contributing to the national interest. The Law Minister said the talents in question are primarily in the fields of science, technology, mathematics, medicine, and so forth.

“Of course, the social sciences are certainly also needed,” he added.

Nevertheless, he stressed that the government will implement the policy very selectively, including the possibility that applications would be submitted by the institutions or ministries requiring the talent, rather than by individuals.

He also expressed hope that all parties would be patient regarding the policy, as it remains a proposal and has not yet become a political decision.

“We are still gathering input, including from the diaspora, to be incorporated into the Citizenship Bill,” Supratman said.