How does family reunification work?

Family reunification is a process that involves reuniting families in a new country. In the Netherlands, family reunification allows individuals with a residence permit to bring their family members to the Netherlands. How does this entire process work? We have sought advice from an immigration lawyer. Read more here!

Residence permit

The process begins with one of the family members who already has a residence permit in the Netherlands. This can be, for example, an asylum seeker who has been granted permission to stay in the Netherlands. This person with the residence permit is called the “sponsor.” The sponsor is the person in the Netherlands with a valid residence permit who applies for family reunification. This could be a refugee who has been granted asylum, an expatriate working in the Netherlands, or someone with another legal status.

Submitting an application

The sponsor submits an application for family reunification. This involves requesting that their family members, such as their spouse, children, or other relatives, be allowed to come to the Netherlands. The application is submitted to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). The IND is responsible for processing immigration applications and assessing the family reunification application. They review whether all requirements are met before family members can come to the Netherlands.

Meeting requirements

To qualify for family reunification, both the sponsor and family members must meet specific requirements. This includes demonstrating a sustainable and exclusive relationship for partners, proving biological kinship for children, and meeting financial requirements to provide for the family’s livelihood in the Netherlands. It is crucial to meet these requirements for a successful family reunification.

Temporary Residence Permit (MVV)

After approval of the application, family members receive a Temporary Residence Permit (MVV) from the Dutch embassy or consulate in their country of origin. This document allows them to travel to and stay in the Netherlands. The MVV is a crucial document that family members need to travel to the Netherlands and reside there legally. It is essential for the legal migration process.

Registration with the municipality

Upon arrival in the Netherlands, family members must register with the municipality where they will be living. Here, they will receive a Citizen Service Number (BSN), which is essential for various administrative matters in the Netherlands. After registration with the municipality, family members can start their lives in the Netherlands. This includes seeking employment, arranging education for children, and integrating into Dutch society.

Permanent residence permit

After a period of temporary residence, family members may be eligible for a permanent residence permit, allowing them to stay permanently in the Netherlands. A permanent residence permit enables family members to live and work in the Netherlands indefinitely. This is a significant step in the integration process. While it may present challenges, with the right guidance and documentation, families can successfully reunite.