Immigration

Before you come to the Netherlands

Visa and other arrangements

The visa or residence permit you need depends on your nationality, how long you plan to stay in the Netherlands and your reason for coming.

Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland can live, work and study in the Netherlands without a visa or residence permit.

A stay of more than four months requires registration as a resident in the Personal Records Database (BRP). Those staying for less than four months can register as a non-resident (RNI) when they need a Citizen Service Number (BSN).

Nationals from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland may need a visa and/or residence permit, depending on their individual situation.

Planning to work in the Netherlands?

Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland are free to work in the Netherlands without a work permit.

If you are from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland, different rules apply. Depending on your situation, you may need a residence permit and/or permission to work in the Netherlands. The requirements depend on factors such as the type of employment and the duration of your stay.

Who doesn’t need a work permit?

Some residence permits allow you to work in the Netherlands without a separate work permit (TWV). The conditions under which you are allowed to work depend on your residence status. Check the employment status stated on your residence document or the conditions that apply to your residence permit.

Soon after your arrival to the Netherlands

Legal stay in the Netherlands

• Collect your residence permit from the IND, if applicable.
• Planning to live in the Netherlands for more than four months? You must register as a resident in the Personal Records Database (BRP). Your partner and/or children must also register in person if they are moving to the Netherlands with you.