There are 3 ways to obtain Dutch nationality: through naturalization, through an option procedure or through birth from a Dutch father or mother.
The Dutch Citizenship Act is complicated; whether and how you may acquire Dutch nationality is different in each individual case. Many rules and exceptions must be taken into account. Our nationality desk lawyers are experts in matters like naturalization, dual nationality and option procedures. They can advise you, assist with the application for Dutch citizenship or represent you during an objection appeal or confirmation procedure.
To diplomats, employees at a consulate or at an international organization (summarized as the privileged) other rules apply.
Loss of Dutch citizenship can happen automatically, sometimes even without you knowing it. Dutch citizenship can also be revoked.
Regaining Dutch citizenship is a laborious process and not always possible. It is wise to contact one of our lawyers for tailored advice.
Automatic loss of Dutch citizenship can happen if you:
Internet consultation on the bill to 'modernise' the Netherlands Nationality Act [Rijkswet op het Nederlanderschap]
On 13 March 2023 a consultation was started regarding the bill to amend the Netherlands Nationality Act (RWN). The consultation is ending on 15 May 2023. Anyone may and can respond to the bill until that date.
Read more ...New bill expected concerning the automatic loss and regaining of Dutch citizenship
On 18 November 2022, the State Secretary of Justice and Security (hereafter: state secretary) answered questions of the House of Representatives concerning a possible modernisation of the Dutch Nationality Act.
Read more ...Policy change for RANOV permit holders
Since 1 November 2021, holders of a residence permit on the basis of the Settlement of the Former Aliens Act Estate Scheme (RANOV) do not have to provide a passport or birth certificate when filing a naturalization request. If there is reasonable doubt about the alleged identity and nationality of the RANOV permit holder, the naturalization request may still be rejected. Similarly, if there is doubt about the alleged identity and nationality of a parent, the naturalization request of the now adult child may be rejected.
On 31 October 2022, State Secretary of Justice and Security announced a policy change based on a memorandum from the Directorate General of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).
Read more ...Option and Naturalization Fees 2023
Application fees for Dutch citizenship requests, by naturalization or option, are revised annually. As of 1 January 2023, the IND charges the following amounts:
Read more ...No Dutch passport despite new rules
Since the introduction of new rules for pardon permit holders on November 1st, 2021, a dozen or so applicants have been refused a Dutch passport. According to Vera Kidjan, this number will probably increase in the coming months.
Read more ...Dual nationality in coalition agreement
The new coalition agreement contains a paragraph on dual nationality and retention of Dutch citizenship.
Read more ...Option and Naturalization Fees 2022
Application fees for Dutch citizenship requests, by naturalization or option, are revised annually. As of 1 January 2022, the IND charges the following amounts:
Read more ...
