Why Ghanaian Citizens Want to Get Dutch Citizenship?

Living in a new country is more than just settling in. For many Ghanaian expats in the Netherlands, the next big step is securing Dutch citizenship. But why does it matter so much? Is it about the passport, freedom to travel, or something deeper?

In 2025, more Ghanaians are applying for Dutch citizenship, and it’s not just a trend. It's a life decision tied to better opportunities, security, and a more permanent future. Let’s break down the reasons why Ghanaians want Dutch citizenship, the benefits it brings, and what they should consider before taking the step.

1. Freedom to Travel Without Visa Stress

One of the top reasons Ghanaians want Dutch citizenship is simple: visa-free travel.

• The Dutch passport is among the strongest in the world.
• It allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries, including the USA, UK, and Canada.
• Compared to the Ghanaian passport, which offers much less freedom, Dutch citizenship is a clear upgrade for people who travel or want global career options.

No more waiting months for visa approvals. No more paperwork stress when attending international events or family gatherings abroad.

2. Permanent Security for the Whole Family

Ghanaians with Dutch citizenship no longer need to worry about renewing residence permits or depending on work status.

What changes with citizenship?

• You can’t be deported or lose your status even if your job changes.
• You gain full legal protection and equal rights under Dutch law.
• You can also apply for citizenship for your children and make their future secure.

For families thinking long term, this kind of stability is priceless.

3. Better Job Opportunities and Equal Pay

As a Dutch citizen, you're no longer limited in the job market. Some government or higher-level roles require EU citizenship. Without it, Ghanaians can face restrictions or rejection even if they’re qualified.

Citizenship opens more doors:

• Government and civil service jobs
• More competitive private sector roles
• No extra paperwork for employers

You also have better chances of getting promoted, getting fair pay, and accessing job training programs.

4. Right to Vote and Be Heard

Many Ghanaians in the Netherlands feel deeply connected to the country. They work, pay taxes, and raise families here. But without Dutch citizenship, they can’t vote in national elections or influence policies that affect their daily lives.

With Dutch citizenship, you can:

• Vote in all elections
• Run for office if you wish
• Have a say in community decisions

This gives a stronger sense of belonging and control over the future, not just for yourself, but for your children too.

5. Easier Access to Benefits and Services

Dutch citizens enjoy smoother access to housing support, student loans, and healthcare benefits. While residents also have access to services, citizenship often means fewer checks and faster processing.

For example:

• You may find it easier to buy a house or get approved for student funding.
• Applying for social welfare becomes simpler.
• You’re treated equally in most public services.

For many Ghanaians, this makes daily life less stressful.

6. Long-Term Planning and Global Opportunities

Some Ghanaians see Dutch citizenship not just as a tool for staying in the Netherlands but also as a gateway to Europe and the world.

• Dutch citizens can live and work freely in all EU countries.
• They can move to countries like Germany, France, or Spain without needing extra permits.

This flexibility is appealing for those who want to work in multiple countries, retire elsewhere, or give their children a European future.

Can You Keep Your Ghanaian Passport?

Yes, Ghana allows dual citizenship. But things are a bit more complex when it comes to the Netherlands. While Ghana supports keeping your original nationality, the Netherlands generally limits dual citizenship.

How to Become a Dutch Citizen

There are three main ways to become a Dutch citizen:

• Automatically at birth, if one or both of your parents are Dutch citizens when you’re born.
• Through the option procedure, a simple process that takes around 3 months. This is only available to people who belong to specific groups defined by law.
• Through naturalisation,  if you're not eligible for the option route, this is the most common path. It usually takes under a year, and never more than two.

You can learn more about these methods on the official site of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

So, Can You Keep Both Nationalities?

It depends. While Ghana supports dual citizenship, Dutch law may still ask you to give up your Ghanaian passport when applying for Dutch nationality, unless you qualify for one of the exceptions, such as:

• Being married to a Dutch citizen
• Being born in the Netherlands and living there continuously
  If giving up your original citizenship is legally impossible or causes serious hardship

The rules can be strict, so it’s smart to speak with an expert or check directly with IND to know your specific case.

Remitting Money Back Home? Choose Safe Methods

Even after becoming Dutch citizens, many Ghanaians continue to support their family back home. But sending money through traditional banks can be expensive and slow. A smarter way is to use ACE Money Transfer. It’s fast, affordable, and reliable for making an online money transfer from Netherlands to Ghana. With a 4.7 Trustpilot rating and easy mobile use, it’s built for modern expats.

Secure a Future That Feels Like Home

For many Ghanaians, Dutch citizenship isn’t just a legal status, it’s a way to success. It brings freedom, security, and more opportunities for both individuals and families.

Whether it’s for career, travel, or raising kids in a safe environment, the benefits are clear. And while giving up Ghanaian citizenship is tough, many believe the trade-off is worth it for the long-term rewards. If you still want to send money to Ghana from Netherlands, make sure you’re using ACE Money Transfer, the smart choice trusted by Ghanaians in Europe.

Secure your digital life, build your new path, and stay connected to your roots, all on your own terms.

FAQs

Do I have to give up my Ghanaian passport to get Dutch citizenship?

Yes, Ghana and the Netherlands don’t allow dual nationality between each other, so you must renounce Ghanaian citizenship.

How long must I live in the Netherlands to apply?

Usually, you need to live legally in the Netherlands for 5 years before applying for citizenship.

Can I apply for Dutch citizenship while studying?

Yes, if you’ve lived in the country long enough and meet other requirements.

What’s the cost of applying for Dutch citizenship?

As of 2025, the application fee is around €1,000. It may change, so always check with the Dutch immigration service (IND).