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Living Legally in the Netherlands
Dutch residence permits are issued only for specific reasons which are
listed in IND Aliens Circular Part B. Over twenty-five
categories are listed. Most residence permits are issued for the
following reasons:
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Family formation;
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Paid employment;
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Self-employment; and
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Study.
The IND denies a large percentage of residence permit
applications. Many of these denials could have been avoided with
professional immigration advice.
The basic requirements for a residence permit are:
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A valid passport;
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No criminal record;
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No risk to public order, national peace or security;
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Sufficient means of support;
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Health Insurance with Dutch insurer; and
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Meeting the requirements associated with the reason for
your visit.
For every reason, different requirements and different
documents in addition to those listed above will apply. If any
mistake is made in satisfying these requirements, the application will be
denied by the IND.
Since April
1, 2001, it has been possible for two men or two women to be
married in the Netherlands. Couples wanting to formalize a
relationship can choose from three options: civil marriage, registered
partnership or a cohabitation agreement.
In order to bring a spouse or partner to the Netherlands, the
sponsor must have sufficient income to provide for the spouse or partner.
This does not apply to family members brought to the Netherlands under the
terms of the
Dutch American Friendship Treaty.
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