Becoming a Dutch citizen through naturalization

How does it work?

If you want to become a Dutch citizen through naturalization, you can apply for this at the municipality.

Check the Requirements of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) in advance. That way, you will be well prepared.

What to do.

• You go to the municipality and submit the application.
• You can submit an application for your minor children who live in the Netherlands at the same time.
• You pay the costs.
• You fill in a form stating that you will make the 'declaration of commitment'. By doing so, you declare that you are aware that Dutch law also applies to you. 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 meeting. This meeting is called the naturalization ceremony. You must attend this ceremony. You will only become a Dutch citizen once you have made the declaration of allegiance at the ceremony. You will then receive the decision stating that you have become a Dutch citizen.

What does it cost?

The fees must be paid when submitting the application, preferably by debit card. Would you like to know how much the fees will be for you? Please contact the Civil Affairs Department.

What do I need?

• your residence permit
• your valid passport
• your birth certificate
• the integration diploma (or a comparable diploma)

If you are married or in a registered partnership, or if you live with a Dutch partner, you must prove 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

Note!

• The municipality must be able to verify that foreign documents are genuine. This can be done by legalizing the documents. Ask the municipality in advance whether this is necessary.
• Foreign documents must be written in Dutch, English, French, or German. If this is not the case, have the documents translated first by a translator certified in the Netherlands.

How long does it take?

It takes up to one year before you know whether you will become a Dutch citizen. The IND can extend this period twice, by six months each time.

Objecting

Do you disagree with the decision? Then you can lodge an objection with the IND.