Dual Citizenship in the Netherlands: How Dutch Expats Gain Dual Nationality
The Netherlands generally takes a strict approach to dual citizenship. Adults acquiring Dutch citizenship through naturalisation are normally required to renounce their original nationality. In some circumstances, however, you can retain or regain your original citizenship and hold dual nationality.
Dual Citizenship for Children
Children can automatically acquire dual nationality through birth, acknowledgement or adoption at an early age. Minor children who are naturalised together with their parents are also generally not required to renounce their original citizenship, even when their parents must do so. These rules can be particularly relevant to children with one Dutch parent or children under 18 who are included in a parent’s naturalisation application.
Dual Citizenship Through Naturalisation or Option
Adults may be able to retain their original nationality if they qualify for an exemption from the renunciation requirement. Common exemptions include:
Renunciation is impossible:
- If your country of origin does not allow you to renounce its nationality, you may be exempt.
- Dutch spouse or registered partner: If you are married to or in a registered partnership with a Dutch citizen when you apply, you generally do not need to renounce your existing nationality.
- Significant financial loss: You may qualify if renunciation would result in substantial financial losses, such as loss of property, inheritance, pension or maintenance rights. Evidence is required and cases are assessed individually.
- High renunciation fees: An exemption may apply where the fee is disproportionate to your financial circumstances. You must provide evidence of the fee and your ability to pay it.
- Military service: If you cannot renounce your nationality without first completing mandatory military service, an exemption may be available.
- Option procedure: Certain people with a strong connection to the Netherlands can acquire citizenship through the simplified option procedure. This may include former Dutch nationals and certain long-term residents.
- Recognised refugees: Recognised refugees are exempt from renunciation requirements because approaching their country of origin may be unsafe.
Regaining Your Original Nationality
Dutch citizens who voluntarily acquire another nationality will normally automatically lose Dutch citizenship. There are exceptions, including where you acquire the nationality of your Dutch spouse or registered partner, the country where you lived continuously for five years before turning 18, or the country where you were born and where you have your main residence when reacquiring citizenship. Before pursuing this route, obtain legal advice in both countries, as your original country may impose conditions on reacquisition.
A Personalised Approach
In some cases, several exemptions may be combined to create a route to dual citizenship. The applicable rules depend heavily on your personal circumstances and the evidence available.
Would you like advice?
Orion Immigration Law can assess your situation, identify potential exemptions and advise you on the best route towards dual citizenship in the Netherlands.
