JAKARTA – Indonesia’s Golden Visa program has successfully drawn significant investment and facilitated the return of global talent, according to the country’s Directorate General of Immigration.
Launched in July 2024, the initiative is designed to provide a dedicated immigration pathway for high-caliber foreign nationals and diaspora members wishing to contribute to the national economy.
As of May 18, 2026, the government has issued 1,274 Golden Visas, with realized investments reaching Rp52.1 trillion (approximately USD $3.2 billion).
The program operates on a selective policy basis, ensuring that only qualified individuals can obtain long-term stay permits of five to ten years.
“Indonesia is friendly but firm,” said Hendarsam Marantoko, Director General of Immigration, emphasizing the program’s balanced approach.
A Homecoming for Global Talent
For Indonesian diaspora members, the Golden Visa removes previous immigration hurdles.
Notably, internationally renowned singer Anggun Cipta Sasmi, a French citizen of Indonesian origin, has obtained the visa.
After three decades of residing in Paris, she expressed relief and gratitude for the new pathway.
“Wherever you go, you definitely want to return home… many of my diaspora friends feel the same, and now with the Golden Visa, it’s possible,” Anggun stated.
Still, she noted that most of the diaspora remain unaware of the program and persuaded the government to boost outreach, as similar schemes already exist abroad.
Requirements and Selective Policy
To qualify for the Global Talent category (5-10 year stay), applicants must meet specific academic or expertise criteria, hold a passport valid for at least six months, and show proof of living costs or a guaranteed deposit.
The immigration authority highlights that the visa is not available to all foreigners, blocking unwanted long-term stays while admitting only those who can truly contribute to Indonesia’s economy.
Source: imigrasi.go.id, ANTARA News
Feat Image: ANTARA News
