Dutch visa resources
Documents for a Netherlands visa application
A Netherlands long-stay application needs the residence-purpose application form, a valid passport, a passport photo, and purpose-specific supporting evidence, with biometrics taken at the embassy.
Important
For the national long-stay route you submit one combined application for the MVV and the residence permit, using the IND application form that matches your residence purpose (family and partner, paid employment, highly skilled migrant, study, self-employment, start-up, medical treatment, and so on). Each purpose has its own form and its own supporting-document checklist, so the exact list depends on why you are coming.
Across all routes the IND requires a completed application form, a valid passport, and a passport photo, and your biometrics (signature and fingerprints) are recorded at the Dutch embassy or consulate. Supporting documents that are not in Dutch, English, French or German usually have to be legalised and officially translated.
Core documents for every application
- The correct IND application form for your residence purpose
- A valid passport or recognised travel document
- A recent passport photo meeting Dutch photo requirements
- Signature and fingerprints (biometrics), taken at the embassy/consulate
Purpose-specific supporting evidence (examples)
- Family/partner: proof of relationship (e.g. marriage/birth certificates) and the sponsor's income evidence
- Work / highly skilled migrant: employment contract and evidence the salary meets the required amount
- Study: proof of enrolment with a recognised education sponsor and proof of means
- Self-employment/start-up: business plan and supporting financial documentation
Legalisation and translation
- Foreign official documents (e.g. birth/marriage certificates) usually need legalisation or an apostille
- Documents not in Dutch, English, French or German must be translated by a sworn/official translator
- A legalised, translated birth certificate is typically needed later to register with the municipality
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.