Immigration
Entry Requirements
You may enter the Netherlands for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The 90-day period begins when you enter any of the Schengen group of countries (similar to the European Union). If you are traveling for any other purpose or if you intend to stay longer than 90 days, you should inquire about the appropriate visa at the Dutch Embassy or a Dutch Consulate in the United States for your move to the Netherlands. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. For further details about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see the Schengen fact sheet or the Schengen Map.
Temporary Residency Permit
You may stay longer than 90 days by applying for a Temporary Residence Permit within three days after arrival in the Netherlands. This permit is good for one year and renewable. The application must be submitted to the local Alien Police of the municipality in which you will be staying. Click here for more details.
Permanent Residence Permit
If you move to the Netherlands and have held temporary residence for five consecutive years, you may apply to have your existing residence permit changed into a Permanent Residence Permit. You must submit a new application for permanent residency. You will need to meet the same conditions for the extension as you did when you applied for your original residence permit.
To apply you must have:
- A valid passport
- Proof of health insurance
- A current residence permit
- Documentary proof of income
- Documentary evidence showing that you have been resident in the Netherlands for five consecutive years on the basis of a valid residence permit immediately prior to your application.
- A civic integration examination diploma or a comparable diploma
Information on extending your residence permit is available on the Netherlands Immigration and Naturalisation website. For residency details and requirements, please click here. Please see our Disclaimers about information on this site.