How many years do I need to live in the Netherlands before I can apply for Dutch citizenship by naturalisation?

The standard route to naturalisation requires five uninterrupted years of legal residence in the Kingdom of the Netherlands immediately before you apply, and you must be at least 18 years old. Throughout those years you need to have held a valid residence permit and kept it valid.

There are exceptions that shorten this period in specific situations, for example if you are married to or in a registered partnership with a Dutch national, or if you were previously Dutch. Because the exact rules depend on your personal circumstances, it is worth confirming your eligibility before you start the process.