Becoming a Dutch citizen through naturalization
What is it?
As a foreign national, you can obtain Dutch citizenship. One way to do this is through naturalization. Naturalization means obtaining Dutch citizenship.
How does it work?
If you wish to become a Dutch citizen through naturalization, you can apply for it at your local municipality.
Review the Requirements from the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) in advance. That way, you’ll be well prepared.
What should I do?
- Call the city office to make an appointment: 14 0487
- You must submit the application to the municipality.
- You can submit an application at the same time for your minor children who live in the Netherlands.
- You are responsible for the costs.
- You will fill out a form stating that you will make the “declaration of allegiance.” By doing so, you are confirming that you understand Dutch law applies to you as well. Children under the age of 16 are not required to do this.
- You will be notified automatically if you become a Dutch citizen.
If you are naturalized, you will receive an invitation from the municipality to attend an official gathering. This gathering is called the naturalization ceremony. You are required to attend. You will not become a Dutch citizen until you take the declaration of allegiance at the ceremony. You will then receive the decision stating that you have become a Dutch citizen.
What do I need?
- your residence permit
- your valid passport
- your birth certificate
- the integration diploma (or a comparable diploma)
If you are married, in a registered partnership, or living with a Dutch partner, you must provide proof of this with one of the following documents:
- marriage certificate
- registered partnership certificate
- proof that you have been living with a Dutch partner for 3 years or longer
Please note!
- The municipality needs to be able to verify that foreign documents are authentic. This can be done by having the documents legalized. Check with the municipality in advance to see if this is necessary.
- Foreign documents must be written in Dutch, English, French, or German. If they are not, have them translated first by a certified translator in the Netherlands.
How long does it take?
It takes up to one year to find out whether you will become a Dutch citizen. The IND may extend this period by six months up to two times.
File an objection
If you disagree with the decision, you can file an appeal with the IND.
Additional information
If you have provided false information or withheld important information, you may lose your Dutch citizenship.
This could result in you becoming stateless.