Dutch government revoked more than 90 citizenships in four years

Over the past four years, the Dutch government has revoked the citizenship of 90 people, according to figures from the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). Dutch law allows citizenship to be taken only from individuals who hold another nationality, as countries cannot make people stateless, RTL reports.

Of the 90 cases, 30 were voluntary. These individuals either chose another nationality or formally renounced their Dutch citizenship. Twice as many lost their citizenship due to fraud or involvement in terrorist activities.

Citizenship can be lost voluntarily, such as when someone acquires another nationality, formally renounces citizenship, or, if they hold dual nationality, lives outside the Netherlands continuously for more than 13 years.

It can also be revoked by the Minister or State Secretary of Justice and Security if citizenship was obtained through fraud. People convicted of crimes carrying at least an eight-year prison sentence or involved in terrorist acts may also lose their citizenship. Individuals from age 16 can lose citizenship if they voluntarily join the military of a country at war with the Netherlands or its allies. Those 18 or older may also lose citizenship if they join organizations participating in armed conflicts that threaten national security.

State Secretary Arno Rutte described revoking citizenship as “an exceptional and severe measure.” He said, “Dutch citizenship confers rights but also carries responsibilities. Those who consistently neglect those responsibilities may face consequences.” Rutte emphasized that each case is assessed individually, and in cases of terrorism or national security threats, revocation is a deliberate and justified action.

Those whose citizenship is revoked may appeal the decision in court, which has the final authority. If no appeal is filed, citizenship is automatically lost.

VVD parliamentarian Ingrid Michon said, “Anyone who joins a terrorist organization loses citizenship and must leave the Netherlands. It is good to see this has happened in recent years.” She also noted that individuals awaiting deportation should be monitored, for example, with electronic ankle monitors, to prevent them from disappearing.