Dutch citizenship by descent

In the Netherlands, the idea of citizenship by descent is referred to as “nationality by birth” or “citizenship by birth.” The guidelines and conditions for obtaining Dutch citizenship by birth or descent are set forth in the Dutch Nationality Act (Rijkswet op het Nederlanderschap). By having a parent who was a Dutch citizen at the time of their birth, a person can become a Dutch citizen by descent, which is often referred to as citizenship by birth or via parental lineage.

Important aspects of obtaining citizenship by descent in the Netherlands

1. Parental Dutch Citizenship. If at least one of the child’s parents was a Dutch citizen at the time of the child’s birth, citizenship by descent is normally conferred. It is not required that both parents be citizens of the Netherlands.
2. Legitimation. If a father is a Dutch citizen and the child is born outside of wedlock, the child may become a Dutch citizen by descent if the father confirms paternity before the child is seven.
3. Different Nationalities. People who obtain Dutch citizenship through ancestry may also keep their prior citizenship, as the Netherlands normally permits dual or multiple citizenships.
4. Maximum age. There is no minimum age requirement to obtain Dutch citizenship by ancestry. If they match the requirements, a person may apply at any time in their lives.
5. Documentation and Registration. The individual must register their birth at the Dutch municipality where they were born in order to become a Dutch citizen by descent. Typically, they will be requested to present identifying documents such as a birth certificate, confirmation of Dutch parentage, and others.