EU/EEA Family Member Residence Permit
Netherlands
Last updated: December 30, 2025
5 years (renewable)
$100
6 months
Medium
About this Visa
This is a residence permit for non-EU people who are married to, or family members of, EU citizens living in the Netherlands. It lets you stay and live with your family member legally. You can work without any restrictions. You can bring your spouse and children with you. You have full access to healthcare and schools. You can move freely within Europe's Schengen area. You don't need to pass a language test. You don't need to take a civic integration exam. The rules are more flexible than other family visas.
Key Benefits
- Work anywhere without a work permit
- Bring your spouse and children with you
- Access Dutch healthcare like everyone else
- Travel visa-free across Europe (29 countries)
- No language test required
- No civic integration exam required
- After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residence
- After 5 years, you can apply for Dutch citizenship
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be married to an EU citizen or unmarried partner living together 6+ months
- Can be their child (any age, if under 21 or dependent)
- Can be their parent or grandparent if they support you financially
- Can be another relative if they support you financially or you lived with them before
- Must have no serious criminal record
- EU family member must have been exercising free movement (not just living as Dutch national)
- Cannot apply if family member is Dutch citizen living only in Netherlands
Financial Requirement
Your EU family member must have stable income. The exact amount depends on your situation, but income must be independent, sustainable, and sufficient. Assessed case-by-case.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be good for at least 3 more months
- Birth or marriage certificateOfficial copy, translated to Dutch
- Proof EU family member lives in NetherlandsLease agreement or utility bill with their name
- Proof of family relationshipMarriage certificate, birth certificate
- Proof EU family member has a jobEmployment contract, payslips
- Proof EU family member has healthcare insuranceInsurance documentation
- Proof of cohabitation (if unmarried partner)Evidence of 6+ months living together
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.