Dutch Residence Permit for Family and Partner (Family Reunification)

Who it's for

Partners and children (and in limited cases other close family) of a Dutch national or a valid residence-permit holder who want to live together in the Netherlands.

Requirements

• A genuine and exclusive relationship (marriage, registered partnership, or a durable unmarried relationship) or a parent-child relationship
• The sponsor has independent, sustainable and sufficient income (generally a 1-year+ contract at least at minimum wage)
• Both partners are aged 21 or older (for partner reunification)
• Where applicable, the family member has passed the basic civic integration exam abroad
• Valid passports; no public-order objections; TB test where required

What you can do

• Live in the Netherlands with your partner or family member
• Work freely without a separate work permit in most cases
• Renew the permit as long as the relationship and conditions continue
• Build toward independent, long-term or permanent residence over time

How to apply

The sponsor in the Netherlands submits the combined MVV and residence permit application to the IND.

Some family members must first pass the basic civic integration exam (inburgering) at a Dutch embassy abroad before the MVV is issued.

After approval, the family member collects the MVV abroad if required, enters the Netherlands, registers with the municipality and collects the residence card.

Documents

• Valid passports for sponsor and family member(s)
• Proof of the relationship (marriage/partnership certificate or evidence of a durable relationship)
• Proof of the sponsor's independent, sustainable and sufficient income (employment contract, payslips)
• Civic integration exam result where applicable
• Antecedents declaration; TB test where applicable