Permanent residence permit in the Netherlands: EU long-term resident, permanent residence, and long-term residence
Would you like more certainty about your residence status in the Netherlands? After several years of lawful residence, you may in many cases apply for a permanent residence permit. There are three routes:
- The EU long-term resident residence permit
- The permanent residence permit
- The long-term residence document for EU citizens and their family members
Below you will find everything you need to know about the conditions and application procedures for these residence permits.
1. What is a permanent residence permit?
A permanent residence permit gives you the right to reside in the Netherlands without a time limit. You no longer need to keep renewing your residence permit. There are different types, depending on your current residence status.
2. EU long-term resident residence permit
With this permit, you can more easily apply for a residence permit in another EU country.
Conditions:
- You have lived in the Netherlands for at least 5 consecutive years with a valid residence permit.
- You have not been outside the Netherlands for more than 6 consecutive months and no more than 10 months in total.
- You have always complied with the conditions of your residence permit.
- Your current residence permit is for a non-temporary purpose of stay.
- You have a valid passport or travel document.
- You meet the income requirements.
- You have met the civic integration requirement.
- You are registered in the Personal Records Database (BRP).
3. Permanent residence permit
This permit is intended for people who have lived in the Netherlands for more than 5 years and meet specific conditions.
Conditions:
- At least 5 years of uninterrupted residence in the Netherlands with a valid residence permit (only the years from the age of 8 onwards count).
- Residence for a non-temporary purpose (for example work or family reunification).
- Meeting the income requirements and having passed the civic integration exam (unless exempt).
- Registered in the BRP.
- A valid passport and no threat to public order or national security.
4. Long-term residence document (EU citizens)
EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens and their family members can apply for a long-term residence document after five years of lawful residence in the Netherlands.
Conditions:
- Nationality of an EU or EEA country or Switzerland, or being a family member of such a person.
- At least 5 years of uninterrupted lawful residence in the Netherlands.
- Registered in the BRP of the municipality where you live.
Please note:
If you hold a residence permit for residence with a minor Dutch child (Chavez-Vilchez), you are not eligible for long-term residence.