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Lifelong visa for Indonesian diaspora can be a major breakthrough
The lifelong visa policy, if realized, will serve as a cornerstone of Indonesia's efforts to harness the potential of its diaspora as a catalyst for sustainable development and global engagement.
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Some of Indonesian-born Chinese citizens joined the Independence Day Celebration at the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing on Aug. 17, 2023. (The Jakarta Post/Teddy Trilaksono)
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mmigration Director General Silmy Karim unveiled on May 12 a lifelong visa scheme for the Indonesian diaspora, a modification of the dual citizenship idea initially introduced last month by Coordinating Maritime Affairs and Investment Minister Luhut Pandjaitan.
Such an alternative, disclosed during a webinar hosted by the alumni association of the University of Indonesia United States chapter, can be regarded as the most significant development in the history of the Indonesian diaspora's journey.
The lifelong visa initiative holds profound significance within Indonesia's broader strategy to actively engage its diaspora and propel national development forward. This policy represents a pivotal step toward fostering stronger connections with the Indonesian diaspora community across the globe, empowering them to play a more active role in the country's growth trajectory.
By providing diaspora members with enhanced opportunities for investment, career advancement and educational pursuits in Indonesia, the lifelong visa not only strengthens bonds with overseas Indonesians but also harnesses their talents and resources to drive innovation, economic prosperity and social progress within the nation.
Thus, the policy, if realized, will serve as a cornerstone of Indonesia's efforts to harness the potential of its diaspora as a catalyst for sustainable development and global engagement.
The Indonesian diaspora in Canada, through the Indonesia Diaspora Network (IDN) Canada chapter, has been steadfast in advocating for the lifelong visa over the past few years. The group officially proposed this scheme in a formal letter, signed by more than 200 of the Indonesian diaspora in Canada, to the Law and Human Rights Minister when the nation marked its 78th anniversary of independence last year.
While awaiting the official launch of dual citizenship, why not opt for a lifelong visa?
