What is the naturalisation ceremony for new citizens?

The naturalisation ceremony is a special occasion for reflecting on the bond between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and its newest citizens. During the ceremony new Dutch citizens are given a certificate as proof of their Dutch nationality.

In the Netherlands, naturalisation ceremonies are organised by the municipalities. If you live abroad and acquire Dutch nationality by option or naturalisation, you will attend the ceremony at the Dutch embassy or consulate-general.

Naturalisation

Since 1 October 2006, everyone who acquires Dutch nationality by naturalisation is invited to attend a ceremony by the Dutch embassy or consulate-general.

You are obliged to attend the ceremony. If you have any minor children who were aged 16 or 17 at the time of your application for naturalisation, they must also attend. If you are invited to a ceremony you will only become a Dutch national once you have attended. If you do not turn up for the ceremony, you will receive a new invitation for another date. You must attend a ceremony within one year of the decision granting you Dutch nationality; otherwise you will not be considered a Dutch national. Should you not attend a ceremony within the time specified you will have to apply again for naturalisation.

You will only be excused from having to attend the ceremony in very exceptional circumstances, for example if it is physically impossible or if there are compelling factors of a psychological nature. If you believe that this applies to you, please contact your Dutch embassy or consulate-general.

Declaration opting for Dutch nationality

Since 1 January 2007, everyone who regains their Dutch nationality is invited to attend a ceremony by the Dutch embassy or consulate-general.

You are obliged to attend the ceremony. If you have any minor children who were aged 16 or 17 at the time you applied for Dutch nationality by option, they must also attend. If you are invited to a ceremony you will only become a Dutch national once you have attended. If you do not turn up for the ceremony, you will receive a new invitation for another date. You must attend a ceremony within one year of the decision granting you Dutch nationality; otherwise you will not be considered a Dutch national. Should you not attend a ceremony within the time specified you will have to apply again for Dutch nationality by option.

If Dutch nationality is opted for on behalf of an acknowledged child, the child’s legal representative is obliged to attend the ceremony. The same rule applies here as to adult applications, i.e. the child will not become a Dutch national if his or her legal representative does not attend a ceremony within one year of the decision granting Dutch nationality.

You will only be excused from having to attend the ceremony in very exceptional circumstances, for example if it is physically impossible or if there are compelling factors of a psychological nature. If you believe that this applies to you, please contact your Dutch embassy or consulate-general.