One of the issues that we know we will have to face one day is the question of which citizenship our mixed marriage children should choose when they reach eighteen years of age. At this moment Indonesia does not recognize dual citizenship as they follow the single citizenship principle and since Indonesia is more inward looking than many of it鈥檚 neighbors who also do not recognize dual citizenship then we will not hold our breath for the rules to change.
We have tried to look objectively at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing Indonesian over British citizenship but struggle to find enough positive reasons.聽 Of course Indonesia鈥檚 potential is undeniable, but it鈥檚 potential will only be realized when major changes occur, if ever, and I do not mean by having a modern infrastructure.
Cheap is another reason. The cost of living in Indonesia is very cheap. Education is cheap. Smart children can do well here, although many do far better when they study and work overseas. University scholarships are not so difficult to obtain if your child is smart. Also being western looking and fluent in the local language as well as in English means more opportunities in many fields, not excluding modeling or acting.
As for remaining British, it would mean receiving a top university education at a less expensive price, possibly free accommodation as we have properties in the UK, and holding a passport that requires far fewer visas than an Indonesian one when traveling around the world. Other factors such as pensions, health system and higher standard of living speak for themselves.
Finally, even though we basically consider that our children would likely remain British, there is the possibility that they might themselves opt to choose Indonesian citizenship, perhaps because their best friend is Indonesian, or that one child might want to be Indonesia while the others want to be British. And a very important question is whether a teenager really understands the significance of their choice, or would they change their minds a few months after when it is too late. Then what? Of course being still 17 years of age they are minors and hopefully will appreciate their parents advice.
Then there is the possibility that Indonesian citizens could one day be permitted to have a second nationality when living abroad. But despite some debate that has not been confirmed and night never be, and might or might not be a solution depending on how the system would work. And having to apply to become a British citizen after already giving it up is probably not an option.
As parents of mixed marriage expatriate children, this is a matter that repeatedly crosses our minds and one that needs far more consideration as time goes on and we get closer to that big choice.
Would love to know your thoughts on this matter.
