Surinamese-born in the Netherlands before 1975- who have lost their Dutch nationality but have lived in this country in the past ten years can apply for a residence permit in Amsterdam from January 1, 2025.
The decision comes following the new temporary arrangement that is set to last until July 1, 2025, which, according to Alderman for Social Affairs and Shelter, Groot Wassink, will correct a “historic mistake”, Schengen.News reports.
Suriname was a Dutch colony until it became an independent country on November 25, 1975; thus, in line with Dutch law, Surinamese were considered Dutch nationals. This means they had the same residency and citizenship rights as Dutch nationals.
However, following the independence of Suriname, its nationals lost the right to obtain dual citizenship. Therefore, they were required to choose between acquiring Suriname citizenship or retaining the Dutch one.
According to the Netherlands’ Nationality Act, quoted by EUDO Citizenship Observatory, a person who is of full age would lose Dutch nationality by acquiring Surinamese nationality.
“Many People Living in Dire Situations Can Still Apply for a Residence Permit”
The Alderman for Social Affairs and Shelter, Rutger Groot Wassink, said the temporary agreement means that many people who have been living in dire situations for years are still eligible to apply for a residence permit.
These persons were neither allowed to work in the Netherlands nor eligible to enjoy specific social benefits.
According to him, the agreement dedicated to Surinamese -former Dutch nationals- corrects a historic mistake.
Applications Are to Be Processed Through the Amsterdam Solidarity Committee for Refugees
Applications for residence permits for Suriname former Dutch nationals will be processed through the Amsterdam Solidarity Committee for Refugees (ASKV) organisation.
From October 22, Surinamese can head to this centre to get detailed information and additional support for the submission of the residence permit application to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).
A decision related to the application is expected to be made within four weeks after the submission of the application.
Surinamese living in another Dutch municipality are also required to apply for a residence permit in Amsterdam.
According to local media, in 2021, between 950 and 1,250 undocumented Surinamese reside in Amsterdam.
Source: https://schengen.news/netherlands-to-permit-surinamese-who-lost-dutch-citizenship-to-apply-for-residence-permits-from-january-1-2025/
