Acquiring Dutch citizenship (naturalisation)

If you are living in Alkmaar, please call 14 072 to make an appointment.

You will have either a first or a second meeting:

• First meeting: We will explain the conditions.
• Second meeting: You can submit your application.

• Gaining Dutch nationality through the option procedure may affect your current nationality.
• The fee you pay for the procedure will not be refunded if you withdraw your request.
• The fee you pay for the procedure will not be refunded if your request is rejected.
• Payment is only possible with a debit card (PIN).

• A passport stating your nationality; 
• Valid residence permit (for a non-temporary purpose); 
• Dutch diploma at VMBO level minimum (secondary vocational education). A state examination diploma ‘Dutch as a second language.’ Or the civic integration diploma suitable for naturalisation (level A2); 
• A legalised birth certificate (not necessary if already accepted and registered in the Municipal Personal Records Database). 

We verify the authenticity of your identity papers and check if any other documents are required. 

• If you meet the conditions for the option procedure, the municipality will send you a letter with the decision;
• If you meet the conditions for naturalisation, the municipality will draw up a recommendation and send it to the IND together with your application. You will then receive a letter with the decision of the IND; 
• If you obtain the Dutch nationality, you will receive an invitation to make the declaration of solidarity. You will only become a Dutch citizen if you make the declaration of solidarity. This means that you know that the laws of the Kingdom of the Netherlands also apply to you. After making the declaration of solidarity, you will receive the decision stating that you have become Dutch.