Netherlands citizenship by descent: are you eligible?

What Is Citizenship by Descent?

Citizenship by descent (also called citizenship by origin) means you can become a Dutch citizen based on your family heritage. If your parent, grandparent, or even great-grandparent was a Dutch citizen at the time of your birth, you may be eligible. This is one of the most straightforward paths to Dutch citizenship for people without Dutch parents.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Dutch citizenship by descent, you generally need:

• At least one parent who was a Dutch citizen when you were born
• Proof of your family connection through birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption papers
• Documentation showing your relative's Dutch citizenship status at the time of your birth
• Original documents or certified copies (requirements vary by case)

The exact rules depend on when you were born and when your ancestor acquired Dutch citizenship. Dutch nationality law changed several times throughout history, which affects eligibility.

How Far Back Can You Claim?

In most cases, you can claim through one parent. However, if your eligible parent was born outside the Netherlands to a Dutch parent, additional rules may apply. Some people can trace eligibility back multiple generations, but each generation requires documented proof of citizenship at the moment of birth for the next generation.

Documents You'll Need to Gather

Start collecting:

• Your birth certificate
• Your parents' birth certificates
• Your grandparents' birth certificates (if claiming through that line)
• Marriage certificates for all relevant family members
• Divorce decrees (if applicable)
• Death certificates
• Naturalization records or proof of Dutch citizenship
• Current passport or ID

All documents must typically be original or officially certified copies. Translations into Dutch or English may be required.

How to Apply

Contact the Dutch municipality (gemeente) where your eligible relative lived or where you were born. You can also reach out to a Dutch embassy or consulate in your country. They will review your documents and guide you through the formal application process. Processing times and requirements vary, so confirm current procedures on the official Dutch government immigration website.

Benefits of Dutch Citizenship

• Freedom to live and work anywhere in the EU
• Access to Dutch social services and education
• Visa-free travel to 190+ countries
• Dutch passport validity
• Eligibility for other EU member state benefits

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.