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Guide to Obtaining Residency in The Netherlands

Establishing residency in The Netherlands can be challenging. Here are some helpful tips for expats, retirees, and nomads.
|-Guide to Obtaining Residency in The Netherlands

Obtaining a residency visa in The Netherlands is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in The Netherlands gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

  • Gather the necessary documents to apply for residency status in The Netherlands. This includes a valid passport, proof of address, proof of financial means, and a valid visa (if applicable).
  • Visit the local municipality office to apply for a Citizen Service Number (BSN). This is a unique identification number that is required for all official paperwork in The Netherlands.
  • Apply for a Tax Number (fiscaal nummer) at the local tax office.
    • Fill out the application form and provide the necessary documents.
    • Pay the applicable fee.
  • Register with the local municipality office.
    • Fill out the registration form and provide the necessary documents.
    • Pay the applicable fee.
  • Apply for a residence permit at the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).
    • Fill out the application form and provide the necessary documents.
    • Pay the applicable fee.
  • Once the application is approved, you will receive a residence permit card. This card must be renewed every 5 years.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Netherlands?

“If you will be staying in the Netherlands for a while, you will need to obtain a residence permit from the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). This document will grant you permission to stay and work in the Netherlands for an extended period of time. You may also need to apply for a long-term visa or a Schengen visa in order to enter the country. Depending on the length of stay, you may also be required to apply for a work permit,” said one expat living in Netherlands.

“To travel to The Netherlands, foreign nationals typically require a Schengen visa. The process of applying for a visa requires applicants to schedule an appointment at their nearest Dutch embassy or consulate, where they must present their travel documents along with any additional supporting documentation specified by the consulate or embassy. The Netherlands also offers a variety of residence permits, which allow foreign nationals to remain in the country for extended periods of time. Depending on their intent, applicants can apply for a variety of residence permits such as study permits, employment permits, dependents’ residence permits, family reunification permits, or others. The process of applying for a residence permit requires applicants to submit a completed application form, along with supporting documents such as proof of identity, proof of employment for employment permits and proof of registration for study permits. Once the application is evaluated and approved, applicants may then receive a residence permit granting them the right to stay in The Netherlands,” commented one member living in The Netherlands.

Joshua WoodJoshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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