Netherlands Residence Permit Card (2025): Application, Types & Requirements
A residence permit card for the Netherlands is an official document issued by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) that allows non-EU nationals to legally live, work, study, or reunite with family in the Netherlands.
Whether you’re a student, skilled worker, startup founder, or asylum seeker, this 2025 guide explains everything about the Dutch residence permit (verblijfsvergunning), including eligibility, required documents, and how to apply.
What is a Netherlands Residence Permit Card?
The Netherlands residence permit card is a plastic, biometric ID card issued to foreign nationals who are authorized to stay in the country for more than 90 days. It contains:
- Full name and nationality
- Permit type and legal status
- Date of issue and expiry
- V-number (Dutch alien registration number)
- Photo and signature
- Residence status (e.g. work, study, asylum)
- Biometric chip (since 2011)
Who Needs a Residence Permit in the Netherlands?
✅ Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals staying longer than 90 days
✅ Expats working, studying, or reuniting with family
✅ Entrepreneurs, researchers, and startup founders
✅ EU/EEA citizens do not need a residence permit but can register at the municipality
Main Types of Residence Permits in the Netherlands
Type of Permit | Purpose | Validity |
---|---|---|
Highly Skilled Migrant | Work as a skilled professional | 1–5 years |
Study Permit | University or higher education | Duration of study |
Family Reunification | Join spouse, parent, or partner | 1–5 years |
Startup / Entrepreneur Visa | Start a business in the Netherlands | 1–2 years |
Orientation Year (zoekjaar) | Recent graduates/job seekers | 1 year |
Permanent Residence (PR) | Long-term residence (after 5 years) | Indefinite |
Asylum Residence | Recognized refugees | As per status |
Required Documents for Residence Permit Card
- Valid passport
- MVV (provisional residence permit), if required
- Completed application form via IND
- Proof of purpose: work contract, school admission, family link
- TB test results (if applicable)
- Biometric data: fingerprints, photo, signature
- Health insurance (Dutch or private)
- Proof of income or financial means
How to Apply for a Residence Permit Card
- Apply from abroad via Dutch embassy (with MVV, if required)
- OR apply in the Netherlands if MVV-exempt
- Submit application online or via sponsor (employer/school)
- Attend biometrics appointment at IND
- Wait for IND decision (2–12 weeks)
- Collect residence permit card at IND desk
Netherlands MVV vs. Residence Permit
Term | Purpose | Where to Apply |
---|---|---|
MVV (machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) | Entry visa for long stay (90+ days) | At Dutch consulate before entry |
Residence Permit Card | Legal stay card after entry | Issued by IND in the Netherlands |
Renewal of Residence Permit Card
- Apply to renew at least 3 months before expiry
- Submit updated documents: work contract, income, insurance
- Biometrics may be updated
- IND sends notification if approved
- Renewed card typically valid 1–5 years
Dutch Permanent Residence Permit (EU and National)
After 5 consecutive years of legal residence, you may apply for permanent residence if you:
- Hold a valid residence permit for non-temporary purpose
- Pass the Dutch civic integration exam
- Have stable income and no criminal record
- Have lived in the Netherlands continuously
Costs (2025 Estimates)
Type of Permit | Fee (EUR) |
---|---|
Work/Skilled Migrant | €350–€350 |
Study | €228 |
Family Reunification | €237 |
Permanent Residence | €220–€285 |
Orientation Year | €228 |
💡 Discounts may apply for minors or students.
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