Dutch Residents Who Have Taken Spanish Nationality - 10 Year Rule Novelties

Info for those Dutch nationals who have taken Spanish nationality based on the length of time they’ve been residents, so more than 10 years, and didn´t renew their Dutch passports in time, which resulted in their automatic loss of Dutch nationality.

6 Dutch have appealed this automatic decision with the EU Court of Justice, claiming they also lost their rights as European Citizens.  The EU Court referred the case back to the Dutch Government, confirming that this automatic ’10 year rule’ is not in line with the European principle of proportionality and the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs has 4 months to investigate the claims and if found valid, arrange for legislation that would allow those affected to get the decision revoked and their right to hold a Dutch passport reinstated.

More info in this article in Dutch.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.