Naturalisation ceremony
The naturalisation ceremony is the final step in the process of becoming a Dutch citizen. This is a festive event where you receive a document confirming your Dutch citizenship (nationality). You are then officially a citizen of the Netherlands.
How it works
- You will get a letter with the decision on your application. After approximately 6 weeks the municipality will invite you for the naturalisation ceremony. If you have not heard anything after 6 weeks, call the municipality on tel. 14070.
- You will get an invitation for the naturalisation ceremony a maximum of 3 times.
- You must attend the naturalisation ceremony if you are 16 years or older. During this festive event you will recite the citizenship pledge: the Declaration of Solidarity (verklaring van verbondenheid). You then promise to respect the freedoms and rights that come with Dutch citizenship and to fulfil the obligations of citizenship. After you have made the declaration, you will receive a document confirming your Dutch citizenship and you will officially become a citizen of the Netherlands.
Good to know
- You will be able to apply for a Dutch passport at City Hall Spui or the Leyweg City Office 1 week after the naturalisation ceremony. You will then have to turn in your residence permit. Make an Begin link: appointment to do this, end link. .
- You are required to attend the naturalisation ceremony within 1 year of the date on which your application is approved. If you do not do this, you will not receive Dutch citizenship and must submit a new naturalisation application.