Residence permit in the Netherlands

Expatriates desiring to reside and work in the Netherlands for a period exceeding 90 days are required to undergo the process of obtaining a residence permit. The specific type of application to be submitted is contingent upon both your nationality and the purpose behind your relocation to the Netherlands, such as family, education, employment, or other motives.

This page provides an overview of the various reasons for applying for a Dutch residence permit (verblijfsvergunning), along with associated requirements and the application procedure. Given the intricacies of Dutch immigration law, it is advisable to seek the guidance of an immigration lawyer, especially when dealing with complex cases.

There are diverse motives for seeking residence in the Netherlands, and it is crucial to align your purpose with the most appropriate category, as this choice dictates the specific permit application you will need to choose and submit.

The primary reasons for applying for residence in the Netherlands encompass:

1. As a spouse, (unmarried) partner, or family member.

2. As an employee or self-employed individual.

3. As a highly skilled migrant or scientific researcher.

4. As a student at a university or higher education institution.

5. As a student at a secondary or vocational school.

6. As a graduate in an orientation year.

7. As part of an exchange or working holiday program.

8. As an au pair.

9. As a Turkish national.

10. As a foreign investor.

11. As an entrepreneur on a startup visa.

12. As a refugee or asylum seeker.
    

To determine the most relevant purpose for your situation, it is recommended to consult the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). Whether a Dutch residence permit is required hinges on factors such as your nationality and the duration of your stay in the Netherlands.

EU, EEA, and Swiss Citizens

Exemptions for EU, EEA, and Swiss Nationals

Citizens hailing from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland enjoy the privilege of residing and working in the Netherlands without the need for a residence permit, in accordance with the EC Treaty. No registration with the IND is mandatory for expats from these regions. However, if their stay exceeds four months, registration with the local municipality (gemeente) becomes necessary.

Family Members of European Citizens

Under EU Law, family members of EU/EEA and Swiss nationals residing in the Netherlands can join them, even without European citizenship. This includes spouses and (unmarried) partners. In such cases, family members can apply for verification against EU Law to obtain a certificate of lawful residence, provided they meet the IND's requirements for third-country nationals. This option excludes family members of Dutch nationals unless the Dutch national has lived in another EU country.

Short Stays - No Dutch Residence Permit Required

For stays under 90 days, a residence permit and short stay visa are unnecessary if your country has a non-visa agreement with the Netherlands. Check the list of nationalities requiring or exempt from a visa. If your stay is under 90 days and your country lacks a non-visa agreement, a short stay visa is mandatory, obtainable from the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country.

Longer Stays - Dutch Residence Permit Required

Stays exceeding 90 days necessitate a residence permit. Depending on circumstances and nationality, some can apply directly at the IND upon arrival, while others must apply for a residence permit and provisional residence permit (MVV) at the Dutch embassy or consulate before traveling.

The MVV Provisional Residence Permit

Some internationals must apply for an MVV when seeking a Dutch residence permit. The MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf) acts as a provisional residence permit, allowing entry as a potential resident. It is not an official residence permit. The TEV procedure (Entry and Residence Procedure) allows simultaneous application for the MVV and residence permit before travel.

MVV Necessity Criteria

You are exempt from MVV application if:

• You possess a valid Dutch residence permit.

• You are a citizen of specific countries: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Canada, the USA, Monaco, or the Vatican City.

• You are an EU/EEA citizen or from Switzerland.

• You are a family member or (proven) partner of an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, even with a different nationality.

• You hold a permanent residence permit from another EU country as a "Long-term resident-EC CE."

• You or a family member held a European Blue Card for 18 months in another EU country.

• Your situation falls under specific circumstances outlined by the IND.
  

Sponsorship for Dutch Residence Permit

Most Dutch residence permits require sponsorship, except for specific cases like the orientation year for graduates or certain working holiday programs.

Understanding the Role of a Sponsor

In the Netherlands, a sponsor plays a crucial role in facilitating various types of residence permits. The identity of your sponsor depends on the purpose of your visit:

• Employee, Researcher, or Highly Skilled Migrant: Your employer serves as your sponsor.

• Family Visit: Your relative or partner in the Netherlands acts as your sponsor.

• Student: Your educational institution functions as your sponsor.
  

The IND and Dutch Residence Permits

All Dutch residence permit applications are managed by the IND (Dutch department of Immigration and Naturalisation). Whether applying within the Netherlands or abroad, the IND is the central authority overseeing the process. Applications can be submitted directly to the IND within the country or through Dutch embassies, consulates, or by the sponsor in the Netherlands for applications from abroad.

Requirements for a Dutch Residence Permit

The criteria for obtaining a Dutch residence permit vary significantly based on the purpose of your application and the specific form you submit. Highly skilled migrants, family members, and other categories have distinct requirements. To understand the specific conditions that apply to your circumstances, consult the IND or refer to the requirements outlined in the application forms.

Application Procedure for a Dutch Residence Permit

Applying Without an MVV

• If exempt from the MVV, sponsors can apply on behalf of applicants while still abroad, indicating the expected arrival date.

• Alternatively, applicants or their sponsors can submit the residence permit application by post or in person at an IND Desk (by appointment) after arriving in the Netherlands.

• The IND provides a residence endorsement sticker in the passport during in-country applications, indicating lawful stay and, if applicable, the right to work.

Applying With an MVV (TEV Procedure)

• If applying for both an MVV and a residence permit concurrently, the TEV procedure is followed before arriving in the Netherlands.

• Sponsors in the Netherlands or applicants can initiate the TEV procedure at the Dutch embassy, consulate, or in the applicant's country of residence.

Dutch Residence Permit Application Forms

• Digital versions of most permit application forms are available through the IND.

• Forms can also be obtained from IND Desks (by appointment). Prior contact with the IND is recommended to understand specific application requirements.

• Some permits require the sponsor to submit the application, and failure to use the correct form or apply for an MVV when required can impact the ability to stay in the Netherlands.
  

Supporting Documentation for a Residence Permit in the Netherlands

• Gathering supporting documents, such as a birth certificate, is crucial for a residence permit application.

• The required documents depend on the specific application form, with each form listing necessary documentation.

• Official foreign documents must be legalized or carry an apostille stamp, following the regulations of the issuing country.

• Documents must be in Dutch, English, French, or German; translation by a sworn translator in the Netherlands is necessary for other languages.

Dutch Residence Permit Costs and Application Fees

Applying for a Dutch residence permit or MVV incurs certain costs, the amount of which varies based on the type of application. Check the applicable prices on the IND application costs page.

Payment is made after the IND receives your application, and options include cash or debit card. Unfortunately, credit cards and installment payments are not accepted. Refunds are not provided if your application is rejected.

IND Response Time

Upon submitting your form and paying the fee, the IND will assess your application. The evaluation period may extend up to 90 days, as legally permitted by the IND to reach a decision.

Contacting the IND About Your Application

To inquire about your application status, contact the IND at 088 0430 430 (normal phone charges apply) between 9 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday. If calling from abroad, dial +31 88 0430 430. Remember to have your V-number (file number) on hand, but be prepared for potential long waiting times on the IND phone line.

Collecting Your Residence Permit

Upon approval, you or your sponsor will receive a confirmation letter.

Applications without MVV: If you are already in the Netherlands, collect your residence permit from an IND Desk. Biometric details, including fingerprints, signature, and passport photo, will be gathered at this appointment.

Applications with TEV Procedure: If following the TEV procedure and outside the Netherlands, collect your MVV from the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Once in the Netherlands, pick up your residence document from an IND Desk within two weeks. Highly skilled migrants can also collect their residence permit from an expat centre. Appointments are necessary for these visits.

Rejection of a Dutch Residence Permit Application

In case of rejection, the IND will send a letter explaining the reasons for not issuing a residence permit or MVV. The letter will also provide information on how to lodge an objection.

Additional Actions Upon Arrival in the Netherlands

Depending on your permit requirements, additional actions may be needed:

• Registration at the Town Hall: Staying longer than three months requires registration at the local municipality (gemeente) for entry into the BRP (Personal Records Database).

• Tuberculosis Test: Some individuals must undergo a tuberculosis test within three months of permit approval, arranged through the Municipal Health Service (GGD).

• Integration Exams: Some people may need to take integration exams such as the Civic Integration Exam or Dutch as a Second Language State Exams. To prepare, attendance at Dutch language and culture courses is required. Details will be provided in a letter from DUO (the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science).

Renewing a Residence Permit in the Netherlands

Dutch residence permits have a maximum duration of five years. Three months before expiry, you or your sponsor will typically receive a letter of notification and an extension application form. If not, contact the IND promptly.

Extending Your Residence Permit

Can I extend my residence permit?

Whether you can extend your residency depends on your circumstances. If you meet the conditions for an extension or have changed your purpose of stay, an extension may be possible. Ensuring your residency status is resolved before the permit expiry is crucial to avoid an illegal stay or a potential entry ban.

Permanent Residence or Dutch Citizenship

If you have spent enough time in the Netherlands and meet the eligibility criteria, you might consider applying for permanent residence or Dutch citizenship. This step allows for a more secure and permanent legal status in the country.

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