NetherlandsWorldwide

Becoming a Dutch citizen abroad through the option procedure

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You may be able to become a Dutch citizen abroad through the option procedure. The exact conditions you must meet depend on your personal situation. You can also apply for the option procedure for your child.

What’s your situation?

I am aged 18 or above and am applying for the option procedure for myself

I am applying for the option procedure for a child under the age of 18

Children under 18 cannot apply for the option procedure themselves. An authorised parent or guardian must apply on their behalf.

Attention: If the child is 16 or 17 years old they must accompany their parent to the embassy/consulate to confirm that they want Dutch citizenship.

How the option procedure works

  1. Collect documents proving your Dutch descent.
  2. Make an appointment at the Dutch embassy or consulate-general in your country of residence.
  3. Bring your documents to the Dutch embassy or consulate-general.
  4. Sign the option statement in person at the embassy or consulate-general.
  5. The embassy or consulate-general also signs your option statement.
  6. Pay the option procedure fees.
  7. After a positive decision, you attend the naturalisation ceremony.

After the naturalisation ceremony you are a Dutch citizen.

Make an appointment

If you meet the conditions to become a Dutch citizen through the option procedure, make an appointment online at the embassy or consulate-general in your of residence.

Information: If there is no embassy or consulate general in your country of residence, you can make an appointment at an embassy or consulate-general in the region.

How long will it take?

Your application will usually be processed within 13 weeks. This period may be extended once by up to 13 weeks.

How much does the option procedure cost?

You will need to pay the relevant consular fee. You must pay in person at the embassy or consulate-general when you submit your application.

Becoming a Dutch citizen by other means

Are you not eligible for the option procedure? Perhaps you can become a Dutch citizen by other means.

Contact

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.