Prabowo Pushes for Limited Dual Citizenship: Here Are the Requirements and Eligible Groups
President Prabowo Subianto is advancing the idea of limited dual citizenship for Indonesian talent abroad who are considered to possess expertise and make important contributions to national interests.
The proposal was conveyed by Prabowo while discussing government policy in a speech before leaders and members of the legislative body. The government is said to be planning to submit amendments to the law to open up this opportunity selectively.
This policy is primarily aimed at Indonesian diaspora who have special abilities, but whose career paths have required them to take citizenship of another country.
“Tenth, today I convey to the advisory council of the Indonesian government, our recommendation to allow dual citizenship for certain talents needed by the Indonesian nation. Indonesia has millions of diaspora,” said Prabowo, as quoted by VIVA on Friday, 14 August 2026.
Why Does the Government Want to Open Dual Citizenship?
Prabowo believes Indonesia has millions of diaspora spread across various countries. Some of them have reached important positions in professional fields and global industries.
They include scientists, doctors, engineers, researchers, artificial intelligence experts, entrepreneurs, artists, and athletes. Prabowo also highlighted football players who pursue careers abroad.
According to him, some of these talents take foreign citizenship due to work demands, family, or the need to develop their careers in the countries where they reside.
The government wants such choices not to automatically sever Indonesia’s ties with talents who still have the potential to contribute to the homeland.
Dual Citizenship Will Not Apply to Everyone
An important point in this proposal is that the dual citizenship status in question is limited in nature, not a general opening of dual citizenship for all Indonesian citizens.
Prabowo stated that the policy will be aimed at those who possess exceptional talent and are able to make extraordinary contributions to national interests.
Thus, someone who lives or works abroad does not automatically meet the criteria merely because they hold foreign citizenship.
Groups Potentially Eligible
Based on the professional groups mentioned by Prabowo, a number of talents who could potentially be targeted by the policy include:
- Scientists and Researchers
Indonesia can benefit from diaspora working at universities, research institutions, and international research centres.