Dutch citizenship by naturalisation
For long-term residents who want to become Dutch nationals through naturalisation.
The Dutch citizenship by naturalisation is a Dutch settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€1,091 single (2025); ~€1,393 couple; ~€161 minor with parent) and processing time (Up to 1 year (legal maximum)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Dutch citizenship by naturalisation is for
For long-term residents who want to become Dutch nationals through naturalisation.
Naturalisation is the final step - it confers full Dutch and EU citizenship.
Dutch citizenship by naturalisation - eligibility criteria
- Five years of continuous, lawful residence (less in some cases, e.g. married to a Dutch national)
- Passed the civic integration exam at A2 or higher
- Hold a valid residence permit at the time of application
- Willing to renounce your other nationality where required
- No recent serious criminal convictions
Dutch citizenship by naturalisation cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Dutch citizenship by naturalisation (Netherlands) is ~€1,091 single (2025); ~€1,393 couple; ~€161 minor with parent, with an indicative processing time of Up to 1 year (legal maximum). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IND (Netherlands).
| Type | Citizenship |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Applied for at your municipality (gemeente); decided by the IND |
| Length of stay | Permanent (citizenship) |
| Work rights | Full rights as a Dutch/EU citizen |
| Study rights | Full rights as a Dutch/EU citizen |
| Government fee | ~€1,091 single (2025); ~€1,393 couple; ~€161 minor with parent |
| Processing time | Up to 1 year (legal maximum) |
| Route to PR | Naturalisation is the final step - it confers full Dutch and EU citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Naturalisation is the final step - it confers full Dutch and EU citizenship.
Many applicants also compare Permanent · Permanent residence permit (national, type II), EU long-term · EU long-term residence permit, Partner/Spouse · Residence permit for stay with partner or spouse (family reunification). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Dutch route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Dutch citizenship by naturalisation pitfalls we fix
Dutch citizenship by naturalisation - frequently asked questions
How much does the Dutch citizenship by naturalisation cost?
The Dutch citizenship by naturalisation government fee is ~€1,091 single (2025); ~€1,393 couple; ~€161 minor with parent. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IND (Netherlands) before applying.
How long does the Dutch citizenship by naturalisation take to process?
Indicative processing time is Up to 1 year (legal maximum). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Dutch citizenship by naturalisation lead to permanent residence?
Naturalisation is the final step - it confers full Dutch and EU citizenship.
Can I work on the Dutch citizenship by naturalisation?
Work rights: Full rights as a Dutch/EU citizen.
Who can apply for the Dutch citizenship by naturalisation?
For long-term residents who want to become Dutch nationals through naturalisation.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Netherlands government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IND (Netherlands) - official Netherlands immigration authority