Recognition and Dutch citizenship
What is it?
The father can acknowledge paternity if he is not married to or in a registered partnership with the mother. Does the mother have a female partner? In that case, this partner can acknowledge paternity if she is not married to or in a registered partnership with the mother. This is also possible if the child’s biological father is a known sperm donor. The biological mother must give her consent for the acknowledgment. If the biological mother is not a Dutch citizen but the father or female partner is, the acknowledgment may have consequences for the child’s nationality:
- Do you recognize the child before he or she turns seven? The child will automatically receive Dutch citizenship.
- Are you acknowledging paternity after the child turns seven? You must prove your biological paternity within one year. You must provide this proof through a DNA test. If you do not have DNA proof but still want the child to obtain Dutch citizenship, you can apply for the option procedure. You must have raised the child for at least 3 years. The DNA test must be performed by a laboratory that meets the legal requirements. Please note that this must be done within 1 year of the acknowledgment.
What should I do?
You can make an appointment by phone with the back office of the Customer Contact Center at City Hall.
You must bring:
- valid identification for both parents
- the written consent of the biological mother if the child is under 16 years of age
- the child’s written consent if the child is 12 years of age or older
- the results of the DNA test, if the child is older than 7 years
How much does it cost?
There is no cost to you for acknowledging a child. However, please be aware that there are fees for a copy or extract of the birth certificate and for the DNA test.