You wouldn’t be the only one who unknowingly and unwillingly lost their Dutch nationality. It happens more than we would like. The Dutch government itself estimates that it may be happening to about 2,000 people every year. Since 1985 that is roughly about 70,000 people who automatically, unwillingly, lost their Dutch nationality. These are estimates based on passport applications they had to deny. Automatic loss of nationality is not recorded and thus the real numbers are unknown and possibly higher. Why higher? Because many people don’t even get to submit an application and are send away from embassies. ‘Sorry, you lost your nationality and thus you can’t apply for a (new) passport.’

That’s it. You have been sent away and suddenly feel cut off from family, friends, future plans, etc. It can be a very emotional and stressful sadening situation. People feel embarrassed towards parents and family. No, it is not your fault. The government has been criticized on the law and how it informs people. Once you get over the shock you should know that there is always at least one way to get your Dutch nationality back. Depending on your circumstances there are easy to more challenging routes to becoming Dutch again.

Habsburg Legal Services find this kind of situation a moral injustice and helps former Dutchies to get their nationality back. Do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your situation and see how we can help you.