Naturalisation by residence in the Netherlands (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Naturalisation needs five years of residence and an integration exam at level A2. Applicants must try to lose their other nationality unless an exception applies.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Years of residence requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residence | 5 years [1] |
| Shortened residence periodsOrdinary naturalisation by residence | The five-year requirement does not apply to former Dutch nationals, to people married to and living with a Dutch national for at least three years, or to adults adopted in the Kingdom. Three years apply to unmarried partners of an unmarried Dutch national in a durable relationship (at least three years) and to stateless people. [1] |
| Language level requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residence | A2 (CEFR) [2] |
| Integration or civic knowledge testOrdinary naturalisation by residence | Yes [1] |
| Giving up previous nationalityOrdinary naturalisation by residence | Required, with exceptions [1] |
Notes
- This lists the main cases in article 8, paragraphs 2 and 4. Other cases exist in the same article.
- Some applicants are fully or partly exempt from the exam, or can obtain Dutch nationality by option without it.
- The law requires knowledge of Dutch language, government and society. The integration exam is the usual proof.
- Refused if the applicant has not done what is possible to lose the other nationality, unless this cannot reasonably be required. Exceptions include nationals of states party to the 1993 protocol, people born in the Kingdom and living there, people married to a Dutch national, and recognised refugees.
Sources
- Overheid.nl (wetten.overheid.nl): Rijkswet op het Nederlanderschap (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst (IND): Inburgering voor naturalisatie | IND (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.