Dutch citizenship is based upon the Dutch Nationality Act of 1984.
DUTCH CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the
DUTCH CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT:
- Child born in wedlock, one of whose parents is a Dutch citizen.
- Child adopted, one of whose parents is a Dutch citizen and the adoption is in accordance with Dutch law.
- Child born out of wedlock whose mother is a Dutch citizen.
- Child born out of wedlock, of a foreign mother and Dutch father — citizenship will not be granted until the child is legitimized and recognized by the Dutch father.
DUTCH CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION:
Dutch citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions:
- Having resided continually in the country for at least five years and able to speak the Dutch language.
- Foreign spouses of Dutch nationals may apply for citizenship after three years of marriage, provided they are able to speak the Dutch language.
DUAL DUTCH CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
- Dutch child born abroad who acquires the citizenship of country of birth. Upon reaching the age of majority, person must chose which nationality to keep.
- Person, who involuntarily obtains another citizenship may not be asked to renounce Dutch citizenship. Questions concerning dual citizenship and what constitutes involuntary acquisition of a foreign citizenship are not entirely clear in Dutch courts. In cases where the status of Dutch dual citizenship is unclear, contact the Dutch consulate for clarification.
LOSS OF DUTCH CITIZENSHIP:
VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Dutch citizenship may be accomplished in the
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Dutch citizenship: Voluntary acquisition of foreign citizenship.
Dutch citizenship information is summarized from the above-mentioned law. Any action concerning Dutch citizenship should be taken after consulting with a Dutch immigration lawyer or the official authority responsible with Dutch citizenship.