Retrospective return of Dutch nationality, Tjebbes verdict / proportionality test (cheapest route)

Kris as Dutch nationality expert will interview you and will work with you and advise you on how to collect evidence with respect to your loss of Dutch nationality and your ties with the European Union at the time of loss. We will advise you on how to apply for the current proportionality test. Rectification following the Tjebbes verdict and the current “Proportionality Test” by the Dutch authorities will mean you get the Dutch nationality back retrospectively, as if you never lost it. You do not need to be in the Netherlands to apply for the test. This test is done through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and doesn’t involve (expensive) court procedures, unless your test failed. This is one of the cheapest and practical easiest methods to get your nationality back.

This possibility can already be used but will be formally codified into law as of 01 April 2022. If you do not fully comply with the below criteria then there are alternative routes which we can discuss.

Main Criteria:

  1. You lost your Dutch nationality due to the so called 10-Year Clock, Dutch nationality law (RWN) Art 15 paragraph 1c (or previous RWN Art 15 paragraph c),
    OR
    Because you voluntarily acquired another nationality without belonging to an exception by which you could have stayed Dutch. Dutch nationality law (RWN) Art 15 paragraph 1a.
  2. You lost your Dutch nationality after 01 Nov 1993 (EU Treaty of Maastricht).
  3. You do not have another EU nationality.
  4. At  or around the time of loss of your Dutch nationality you were making use of your EU treaty rights (Freedom of Movement), OR were really planning to do so and can evidence this.

It is the last requirement number 4 why it can be good to have legal advice/assistance. Without the right and proper evidence of point 4 the application may fail. It is our experience that when we start discussing this with a client we may find some unexpected surprises which can have a positive outcome. Also, sometimes people do think they comply but the application fails due a lack of proper evidence, or their misunderstanding and indeed not complying. It is not your (family) bonds to the Netherlands you need to proof, but you having used your European Union rights.

For straightforward cases this will take us just 2 to 4 hours and for more challenging and complex cases this may take 5 to 10 hours. Very few will be up to 20 hours. We start with the initial consult and assessment where we will give you a better idea on what to expect. You can contact Kris here:

In which country are you formally registered as resident? If in more than one, include all.
If you know it use country code. For example, UK is +44, Netherlands is +31, USA is +1, South Africa is +27, China is +86, etc.
Please explain your situation, challenges and your desired outcome. Also let us know how and ‘when’ we can best contact you. Keep time differences in mind.