NETHERLANDS 

CITIZENSHIP: Dutch citizenship is based upon the Nationality Act of 1984.

• BY BIRTH: Birth within the territory of the Netherlands does not automatically confer citizenship.
• BY DESCENT:
• Child born in wedlock, one of whose parents is a Dutch citizen.
• Child adopted, one of whose parents is a Dutch citizen and the adoption is in accordance with Dutch law.
• Child born out of wedlock whose mother is a Dutch citizen.
• Child born out of wedlock, of a foreign mother and Dutch father -- citizenship will not be granted until the child is legitimized and recognized by the Dutch father.
• BY NATURALIZATION: Dutch citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions:
• Having resided continually in the country for at least five years and able to speak the Dutch language.
• Foreign spouses of Dutch nationals may apply for citizenship after three years of marriage, provided they are able to speak the Dutch language.

DUAL CITIZENSHIP:  NOT RECOGNIZED. Exceptions:

• Dutch child born abroad who acquires the citizenship of country of birth. Upon reaching the age of majority, person must chose which nationality to keep.
• Person, who involuntarily obtains another citizenship may not be asked to renounce Dutch citizenship.

Questions concerning dual citizenship and what constitutes involuntary acquisition of a foreign citizenship are not entirely clear in Dutch courts.  In cases where the status of Dutch dual citizenship is unclear, contact the Dutch consulate for clarification.

LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP:

• VOLUNTARY: Voluntary renunciation of Dutch citizenship may be accomplished in the Netherlands or abroad. Dutch citizens living abroad may send letters of renunciation to the nearest Dutch embassy or consulate.
• INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Dutch citizenship: Voluntary acquisition of foreign citizenship.