Residence permit, application
What is it?
You need a residence permit if you want to stay in the Netherlands for longer than 3 months. For example, if you want to live with your family in the Netherlands or if you want to work or study in the Netherlands. You can apply for a residence permit at the Immigration and Naturalization Service ( , IND).
Residents of EU/EEA countries and people from Switzerland who are staying or wish to stay in the Netherlands do not need a residence permit.
How does it work?
- Would you like to visit the Netherlands for less than 3 months? Then you will need a valid travel document (such as a passport) and, in many cases, a visa. You can apply for a visa at the Dutch embassy or consulate in the country where you live. Residents of EU-EEA countries and Switzerland only need their passport or identity card.
- Do you want to stay in the Netherlands for longer than 3 months and do you not belong to the group mentioned above? Then you will always need a residence permit. In most cases, you will also need a special visa to enter the Netherlands. This visa is called a provisional residence permit (MVV).
- Are you a citizen of an EU member state, an EEA member state, or Switzerland? If so, you can apply for a'certificate of legal residence' instead of a residence permit.
In all cases, you must meet various requirements. For long stays, you must also be able to present a number of documents. The Dutch government will check whether you meet the requirements and have the correct documents.
What should I do?
You can apply for a residence permit at the Immigration and Naturalization Service ( , IND).
Among other things, you will need the following:
- Valid proof of identity: this is often your travel document or other document stating your nationality.
- If you were born abroad: a birth certificate. Depending on the country of birth, it may be necessary to have the certificate legalized.
- If applicable: a marriage certificate, a divorce certificate, or a certificate proving that the marriage has been dissolved due to death.
The IND sometimes also asks for proof that you have a place to live in the Netherlands. This proof can be: a rental contract, proof of ownership, or a statement from the main occupant of the property.