Immigration and Visas

Family Reunification Visa in the Netherlands: Bringing Your Loved Ones

9 min read For Expats in the Netherlands

For many expats, establishing a life in the Netherlands eventually means bringing their family to join them. The process of family reunification allows certain family members to obtain a residence permit to live with their loved one in the Netherlands. This guide details the requirements and application process for expats seeking to reunite with their family through the Dutch immigration system.

Who is Eligible for Family Reunification?

The ability to bring family members depends heavily on the residence status of the "sponsor" (the expat already residing in the Netherlands) and the relationship type.

Main Applicant's (Sponsor's) Status

The sponsor must hold a valid residence permit in the Netherlands that is not for a temporary purpose (e.g., an asylum permit or certain exchange permits). Common sponsor statuses include:

  • Dutch national
  • EU/EEA national exercising treaty rights
  • Holder of a permanent residence permit
  • Highly Skilled Migrant permit holder
  • EU Blue Card holder
  • Entrepreneur permit holder
  • Those with a residence permit for study (under strict conditions)

Eligible Family Members

The most commonly eligible family members for reunification are:

  • Spouse or Registered Partner: You must be legally married or in a registered partnership. For unmarried partners, you must prove a durable, exclusive relationship and often register your partnership with the municipality.
  • Minor Children: Biological or adopted children under 18 years of age.

Other family members (e.g., adult children, parents) may only be eligible under exceptional, humanitarian circumstances.

Requirements for the Main Applicant (Sponsor)

As the sponsor, you bear significant responsibility and must meet specific criteria:

  • Sufficient Income: You must have a stable, independent income that meets the IND's income requirements (normbedrag). This income must be available for at least 12 months from the date of application. Benefits are generally not counted as sufficient income.
  • Registered Address: You must be registered in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP) and have sufficient living space for your family members.
  • Minimum Age (for partners): Both you and your partner must generally be at least 21 years old.
  • Dutch Health Insurance: You must have valid Dutch health insurance.
  • Long-Term Intent: You must intend to live with your family member for a long period.

Requirements for the Family Member

The family member seeking to join the sponsor also has conditions to meet:

  • Valid Passport: A valid passport from their country of origin.
  • MVV (Entry Visa): Unless exempt (e.g., certain nationalities), the family member will need to apply for an MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf) — a provisional residence permit or entry visa — at a Dutch embassy or consulate in their home country. This is part of the combined TEV (Toegang en Verblijf) procedure.
  • Original Documents: Provide original birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other documents proving the family relationship. These documents almost always require legalisation/apostille and often a sworn translation.
  • Civic Integration Exam (Basic): For many nationalities, partners (not children) must pass the basic civic integration exam abroad (basisexamen inburgering in het buitenland) before applying for the MVV. There are exemptions, e.g., for Highly Skilled Migrants and EU Blue Card family members.
  • Tuberculosis (TB) Test: Depending on their country of origin, family members may need to undergo a TB test upon arrival in the Netherlands.

Document Legalisation & Translation

This is often the most time-consuming part. Check with the Dutch embassy/consulate in the family member's country about specific legalisation and translation requirements well in advance.

The Application Process for Family Reunification

The process generally follows these steps:

  1. Sponsor Initiates Application: The sponsor in the Netherlands usually submits the 'Application for a provisional residence permit (MVV) and/or residence permit for family reunification' to the IND.
  2. IND Assessment: The IND assesses whether both the sponsor and the family member meet all conditions. This can take several months (up to 90 days after all documents are received, sometimes longer).
  3. MVV Application (if needed): If the application is approved by the IND and an MVV is required, the family member must visit the Dutch embassy or consulate in their country to have the MVV sticker placed in their passport.
  4. Travel to the Netherlands: With the MVV, the family member can travel to the Netherlands.
  5. Collect Residence Permit: Upon arrival, the family member schedules an appointment with the IND to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and collect their residence permit card.
  6. BRP Registration: Within 5 days of arrival, the family member must register in the BRP at the local municipality, where they will receive their BSN.

Important Considerations

  • Processing Times: Be prepared for potentially long processing times. It's best to start the application well in advance.
  • Fees: Application fees apply and are non-refundable.
  • Changes in Circumstances: Inform the IND immediately if there are any changes in the sponsor's or family member's situation during the application process.
  • Legal Advice: If your situation is complex or you face difficulties, consider seeking advice from an immigration lawyer.

Family reunification can be a detailed process, but successfully bringing your loved ones to the Netherlands makes the effort worthwhile, creating a true home for your family.

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