HARBOUR VIEW, St. Maarten--Governor Ajamu G. Baly welcomed 81 new Dutch citizens during the fifth naturalization ceremony of 2026, held on Tuesday, September 29, at the Cabinet of the Governor.
The ceremonies were held in two separate sessions, during which all 81 individuals made the declaration of allegiance before the Governor and formally obtained Dutch citizenship.
The new Dutch citizens represent 14 different nationalities within the St. Maarten community. Of the 81 persons, 22 were born and raised in St. Maarten. The youngest participant was four years old, while the oldest was 85.
In addressing the new citizens, Governor Baly emphasized the significance of Dutch nationality and highlighted the core values of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and St. Maarten, particularly the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
He also spoke about the rights and responsibilities that accompany citizenship and the connection new Dutch citizens have with both the St. Maarten community and the wider Kingdom. The Governor encouraged those who obtained Dutch nationality to reflect the Friendly Island spirit in their daily lives.
Dutch nationality can be obtained in several ways, including automatically at birth when at least one parent is Dutch, through adoption or acknowledgement, or through formal procedures such as option and naturalization.
Of the 81 participants in the September 29 ceremonies, 54 acquired Dutch citizenship through the option procedure, while 27 did so through naturalization.
The Cabinet of the Governor noted that these procedures are governed by requirements under the Kingdom Act on Dutch Nationality. Naturalization ceremonies are organized for individuals who obtain Dutch nationality through either option or naturalization, with attendance at such a ceremony required within one year after the decision granting nationality.
During the ceremony, participants take the oath or make a declaration and promise, after which they formally acquire Dutch nationality.
The naturalization ceremonies are held throughout the Kingdom of the Netherlands and are intended to mark the importance of obtaining Dutch citizenship while also promoting greater awareness and understanding of the process.
