🇳🇱
Immigration & residence in Netherlands
The IND (Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst) handles all Dutch residence permits. After arrival, register with the BRP at your municipality to receive a BSN number.
Immigration offices in Netherlands
IND — Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst: Residence permits, visas, naturalization. Phone: 088-0430430. COA: Reception of asylum seekers.
Residence steps to prioritise
Get your BSN at the gemeente: Register within 5 days. BSN unlocks everything — bank, work, insurance. Book an appointment — Search '[city] afspraak inschrijving BRP'. Bring passport, birth certificate legalized/apostilled + translated, rental contract. Receive BSN — Issued during the appointment. Keep the letter. Take out zorgverzekering: Required within 4 months of BSN. From ~€140/month basic package. Compare plans — Use independer.nl or zorgwijzer.nl. Coverage is identical by law; price and service differ. Apply for zorgtoeslag — If income < ~€38 000, Belastingdienst pays up to €127/month back. Find housing: Rental market is very tight. Register for social housing immediately even if you plan to rent private. Sign up on WoningNet — Free/€25/yr per region. Waiting lists 5–15 years in the Randstad — but start the clock now. Huurtoeslag — Rent allowance if rent < €879 and income limits met. Apply on toeslagen.nl.
Documents to keep ready
Prepare your passport, visa or residence card, birth and marriage certificates, address proof, health-insurance proof, job or study documents, and passport photos. In Netherlands, officials may ask for originals, copies and certified translations.
If a decision is delayed or refused
Ask IND — Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst for written confirmation that your application is pending. If you receive a refusal, read the appeal deadline immediately and contact a legal-aid organisation or migrant support office in Netherlands.
Documents checklist
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Proof of purpose (job/study/family)
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
Frequently asked questions
Which office should I contact first in Netherlands?
Start with IND — Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst. For broader newcomer help, also check IND — Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst, Gemeente (BRP), Belastingdienst.
What language will offices use in Netherlands?
The main administrative language is Dutch. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
How long does a residence permit take in Netherlands?
Processing times vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the permit type and completeness of your documents.
Can I work while waiting for my permit?
In many cases yes, especially if you already hold a work-based permit. Rules differ by category — check with the migration authority before starting work.
What if my application is refused?
You almost always have the right to appeal. Free legal counselling is available through NGOs and, in some cases, publicly funded lawyers.
Ask TerraNowa