Family routes vary by the sponsor’s nationality, permit and relationship. The IND assesses eligibility; this guide only structures the questions to ask.
Your checklist
First steps
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EU family rights are a separate route
A non-EU family member joining an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen can have a route based on EU law. Do not substitute the ordinary partner-permit checklist without checking the IND route.
Children need their own documents
Bring each child’s valid identity document and relevant birth or custody documents. The municipality and IND can ask for original, legalised or translated records.
Common questions
Does every partner need the same permit?
No. The sponsor’s nationality, residence status and relationship determine the route. Check the IND page that matches the family situation.
Can family members register together?
Family members moving to live in the Netherlands generally register with the municipality in person. Ask the municipality about appointments and documents.
When is healthcare arranged?
Check each person’s insurance responsibility after arrival. Residence status, work and study can change the answer.
Official sources
Read this first
- IND: residence permit for partnerOfficial regular partner route
- IND: EU family-member verificationOfficial EU-law family route
- NetherlandsWorldwide: when to registerMunicipal registration for partners and children
- Government.nl: health insurance after movingOfficial insurance starting point
Rules can vary by nationality, work or study status, and city. Confirm your route with the official authority before you act.