FAQ - immigration procedures
1. Do I need a visa for the Netherlands?
This depends on your nationality and how long you intend to stay in the Netherlands. Check the visa wizard for more information.
2. How can I apply for a provisional residence permit (MVV)?
Your Dutch employer or host institution will probably handle most of the application paperwork in the form of an “advisory procedure”, which precedes the formal application for the provisional residence permit. You must submit this formal application yourself in person at a Dutch embassy or consulate. Read more...
3. I have not yet received my residence permit, but I need to travel abroad. What should I do?
Depending on your nationality, you may need a return visa.
4. I would like to bring my partner along to the Netherlands. Is that possible?
That is indeed possible. In certain cases though, we would strongly advise to apply for (provisional) residence permits for all family members at the same time. Read more in our section on bringing family.
5. Where and how do I apply for a residence permit?
Sometimes a residence permit must be applied for in person, at other times this can be done by post. Read more...
6. Do I need to have a medical examination in order to obtain a residence permit?
For certain nationalities a tuberculosis examination is required.
7. Can I collect my visa in a different country than my home country?
Yes, that is possible, under certain circumstances. Read more: if the visa is a Schengen visa or if the visa is a provisional residence permit (MVV).
8. I am currently in the Netherlands on a Schengen visa and would like to stay longer than 90 days. Can I extend my visa?
No, we're afraid that is not possible. A Schengen visa cannot be extended. You can only come back to the Schengen area after 90 days have passed. Read more...
9. I have just arrived in the Netherlands. Are there any formalities I need to deal with?
Yes, there are. Read more: if you are staying for less than 90 days, or if you are staying for longer than 90 days.
10. My birth/marriage certificate is in my native language. Do I need to get it translated?
Only documents in Dutch, English, German or French will be accepted by the Dutch government. You may also need to collect some extra stamps or signatures to legalise your documents.
11. Will my partner be allowed to work in the Netherlands?
That depends on the kind of residence permit that you hold. Read more in our section on bringing family.
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