You were convicted of a crime in the 5-year period before you applied for naturalisation or option. Or you were convicted after the application, but before the decision on the application. You got a sentence or a suspended sentence for this crime in the Netherlands or abroad. It makes no difference how long the sentence lasts and whether you have been pardoned. You have been given one of these sentences.
- A custodial sentence, for example a prison sentence or detention under a hospital order (in Dutch: terbeschikkingstelling or TBS).
- A community service. Unless you had to do this community service, because you could not pay a fine less than € 810.
- A fine of at least € 810.
- A penalty order issued by a public prosecutor or an out-of-court settlement of at least € 810.
- Several penalty orders, out-of-court settlements or fines, of at least € 405 each, and at least € 1,215 in total.
- An order to pay at least € 810 against a crime to your advantage (unlawfully obtained gains). You have, for example received money or goods from the crime. You must pay the value of these goods to the government.
Is your sentence over? You can become a Dutch citizen again only after a period of 5 years: this is called the rehabilitation period. During this period you may not be convicted of a crime. The rehabilitation period starts after the end of your sentence, or after payment of the fine, transaction or claim.
