Apply for Dutch citizenship
If you wish to apply for Dutch citizenship, there are two main paths to take: naturalisation and the option procedure.
Becoming a Dutch citizen
You automatically become a Dutch citizen by birth or acknowledgement depending on the nationality of your (adopted) parents. If you hold another nationality and wish to become an official Dutch citizen, you may be able to opt for naturalisation or an option procedure.
Naturalisation in the Netherlands
To be considered for naturalisation, you must be at least 18 years of age, lived in the Netherlands for a minimum of 5 years (exceptions), been legally registered in the Personal Records Database and hold a valid residence permit. You must also be able to show that you are sufficiently integrated into Dutch society by holding a civic integration diploma. In most cases, you must also renounce your current nationality (exceptions).
You apply for naturalisation with your local municipality and pay the appropriate fees at the start of the application process. A final decision is usually taken within 12 months, but it may take longer if your circumstances are more complex. Learn more about the conditions of naturalisation.
The option procedure
You can apply for Dutch citizenship by way of an option statement if you have lived in the Netherlands since before the age of 4, or perhaps you are married or in a registered partnership with a Dutch citizen and been resident in the Netherlands for at least 15 years. In many cases, you need not renounce your current nationality. You apply for the option procedure with your local municipality and pay the appropriate fees at the start of the application process. A final decision is usually taken within 3 months, but it may take longer if your circumstances are more complex. Learn more about the conditions of the option procedure.
More information about obtaining Dutch citizenship
For the latest information about obtaining Dutch citizenship, visit the IND website. If you live in Amsterdam, learn more about applying for naturalisation and the option procedure with the City of Amsterdam. Read on for information about obtaining dual nationality in the Netherlands.
