Becoming Dutch

Ga voor de Nederlandse uitleg naar de pagina Nederlander worden.

Is one of your parents Dutch?

Then you automatically become a Dutch citizen upon birth, adoption or recognition.

Do you have a different nationality?

Then you can apply for Dutch nationality via an option procedure. This is only possible if you meet the conditions. This procedure takes about 3 months.

What if you don't meet the conditions for an option procedure? Then you can apply for Dutch nationality through naturalization. This takes longer than an option procedure (maximum 2 years).

You apply for Dutch nationality in person at the municipality.

Call us first

The telephone number and opening hours are at the bottom of this page. What do we do during this phone call?

• We look at which procedure suits your situation.
• We tell you which documents you need.
• We answer your questions about the procedure.
• We make an appointment to start the application.

What will happen with your application?

In an option procedure, the mayor decides on your application. In a naturalization procedure, the King decides.

Has your application been approved?

Then you will receive an invitation from the municipality for a ceremony for new Dutch citizens. You will then receive the official decision regarding your Dutch nationality.

You pay costs for the application. This amount will not be refunded if the application is rejected.

Are you applying at the same time as your partner and/or child? Then the costs are lower.

Read about the costs for both procedures on the IND website.

To become a Dutch citizen, you usually have to give up your current nationality. Read more about the rules on the IND website.

Becoming a Dutch citizen has advantages and disadvantages. Read more about the advantages and disadvantages on the IND website.

Call or email us and we will be happy to assist you. The details are below this page.