You’ve already accomplished the most important step—finding a partner you want to share your life with. Now comes the paperwork. Applying for a Spouse Visa to bring a non-EU husband, wife, or long-term partner to the Netherlands means dealing with a maze of rules: MVV entry visas, residence permits, income requirements, civic-integration exams, and timelines that can shift dramatically if even one payslip is missing. A single oversight can send the entire application back to the starting line.
This guide turns that maze into a clear, eight-step path. You will see exactly who qualifies, which documents must be legalized or translated, how to schedule the Basic Civic Integration Exam abroad, and what to do if the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) asks for “additional evidence.” Along the way you will find current fees, processing averages, and practical tips—like the smartest moment to book a flight and how to keep working rights intact after arrival. Ready to get your partner’s Dutch residence card in hand? Let’s start with the first eligibility check.
Step 1 – Check Whether You and Your Partner Qualify
Before you spend money on translations, exam fees, or flights, confirm that you both meet the basic legal requirements. The IND will not give you a second chance to “fix” a missing prerequisite; they will simply refuse the application and keep the fee. Use this section as a quick self-audit. If any box below cannot be ticked today, postpone the application until it can—doing so will save months of frustration and an appeal bill later on.
Eligibility criteria for the Dutch sponsor
- Age – Must be at least 21 years old on the date the application is filed.
- Residence status – Needs one of the following:
- Dutch nationality
- EU long-term resident permit (five-year EU-LTR)
- A valid non-temporary Dutch residence permit (study and seasonal permits do not count)
- Income test – The sponsor must prove a “sustainable and independent” gross income equal to 100 % of the statutory minimum wage for at least the next 12 months. For July 2025 that is roughly
€2,069´ per month or€24,828´ per year (figure changes every six months—always download the latest IND table). Income may come from:- Permanent employment contract
- Fixed-term contract covering ≥ 12 months ahead
- Self-employment supported by a recent accountant’s report
Combining incomes with the foreign partner is not allowed at the initial stage.
- Accommodation – A suitable Dutch address is required. Although proofs (rental contract, mortgage statement) are no longer asked upfront, the IND may spot-check after approval.
Eligibility criteria for the foreign partner
- Age – Also 21 or older.
- Relationship type – One of the following applies:
- Legally married
- Registered partnership
- Unmarried relationship of at least 6–12 months that can be documented
- Intent to cohabit – Must plan to live together at the sponsor’s address.
- Clean sheet – No recent criminal convictions or Schengen overstays.
- Health – Will take a tuberculosis test within three months of arrival if required and obtain Dutch public health insurance within four months.
Recognized forms of relationship evidence
Convincing the IND that your relationship is genuine is the beating heart of a Netherlands spouse visa application. Provide a mix of objective and subjective proof:
| Evidence Type | Examples | Practical Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Civil documents | Marriage or partnership certificate, both birth certificates | Apostille & sworn translation if not in Dutch, English, French, German |
| Shared life | Joint lease or mortgage, utility bills, shared bank account, insurance policies | Ensure both names appear; highlight overlapping dates |
| Relationship timeline | Photos together, flight tickets, passport entry stamps, chat or video call logs | Arrange chronologically; avoid “spam” prints—quality over quantity |
Remember: the IND will reject files showing only casual visits or “friendship”-level contact. Aim for a clear narrative demonstrating commitment, cohabitation plans, and integration into each other’s lives.
Step 2 – Gather All Mandatory Documents
Paperwork—not love letters—will ultimately decide whether the IND says ja or nee. Think of your file as a single, well-indexed binder: every sheet legalized, translated, and dated within the IND’s freshness window (usually six months). Missing or outdated documents are the main reason a Netherlands spouse visa application stalls in “additional evidence” limbo, so use the following checklists to build a bullet-proof dossier before you hit “submit.”
Identity and civil-status paperwork
- Valid passports for both partners with at least 6 months remaining; scan all stamped pages, not just the ID page.
- Original birth certificates, issued no more than 12 months ago, bearing an apostille or full legalization stamp.
- Sworn translations if the originals are not in Dutch, English, French, or German—attach the translator’s declaration.
- For name changes (e.g., after marriage) include official change certificates to avoid “identity mismatch” queries.
Proof of relationship & future cohabitation
- Marriage or registered-partnership certificate; if unmarried, the IND “Relationship Statement” signed by both partners.
- If you plan to marry after arrival, add the “Declaration of Intent to Marry within 6 Months” form from the gemeente.
- Evidence of your prospective Dutch address (draft rental contract, purchase agreement, or signed hosting declaration).
- Optional but persuasive: joint photos, travel itineraries, or chat logs compiled chronologically and limited to the highlights.
Financial documents to meet the income test
- Current employment contract stating gross salary ≥
100 %of statutory minimum wage. - IND model Employer’s Statement dated within 3 months plus the last 3 pay slips.
- Self-employed sponsors: recent accountant’s declaration, KvK extract, and annual accounts; taxable profit must meet the income threshold.
- Receiving Dutch benefits or pension? Enclose the latest UWV or SVB award letters.
- Remember: combining incomes between spouses is not allowed for the first residence period; the sponsor alone must qualify.
Health & insurance requirements
- Completed IND Antecedents Certificate (no convictions declaration) signed by the foreign partner.
- If your partner’s nationality requires it, the Tuberculosis (TB) Declaration—the actual test happens in the Netherlands.
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance is not mandatory at filing, but a confirmation quote shows readiness and can impress the case officer.
Extra documents if children apply too
- Legalized birth certificates for each child plus sworn translations.
- Notarized parental-consent letters from the non-accompanying parent, including passport copies and contact details.
- Court custody orders if sole guardianship applies.
- For kids older than six: latest school report card; for all minors: vaccination booklet (GGD likes to see it).
Compile these items into clearly labeled PDFs—one category per file—so the MyIND portal or your lawyer can upload without exceeding the IND’s 20 MB limit. A watertight document pack now is the fastest shortcut to an early approval.
Step 3 – Pass the Basic Civic Integration Exam Abroad (if required)
For many applicants the journey toward a Netherlands spouse visa involves one extra hurdle before the plane ticket: the Basisexamen Inburgering Buitenland. Think of it as proof that you already speak a little Dutch and understand day-to-day life in the country. The exam is taken at a Dutch embassy or consulate before the MVV request can be approved, so factor the preparation time into your overall timeline.
Who must take the MVV civic-integration exam
You are required to sit the test if you hold a passport from a non-EU/EFTA country and you do not fall under one of the official exemptions. Common exemptions include:
- Nationals of Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States
- Holders of a university degree taught in Dutch
- Children under 18 or adults over the AOW pension age
- Partners who previously held a Dutch residence permit for study or work and already passed integration in the Netherlands
Everyone else—roughly 80 % of family applicants—must pass the exam first time or re-schedule (minimum 4-week gap).
Exam content, booking, and fees
The test has three computer-based parts:
- Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNS)
- Reading Comprehension (Lezen) A1
- Speaking (Spreken) A1
You book and pay online through the embassy’s appointment portal. The current fee is €150 (2025 tariff) and is non-refundable if you cancel within 48 hours. On exam day bring your passport, appointment confirmation, and two recent ID photos.
Study resources and practical tips
- Order the official “Naar Nederland” self-study package; it contains the exact question formats.
- Supplement with free mock tests on YouTube and the Dutch government’s practice site.
- Record yourself answering sample speaking prompts—fluency matters more than perfect grammar.
- Schedule the exam at least 6–8 weeks before you expect to file the MVV so a retake, if necessary, won’t derail your application timeline.
- Keep the stamped results sheet; you will upload it with the other documents in Step 4.
Passing this modest A1-level test knocks out a significant pre-condition and moves your partner’s file straight to the IND assessment desk.
Step 4 – Submit the MVV & Residence Permit Application
Once the paperwork pile is complete and (if applicable) the civic-integration certificate is in your pocket, it is time to put everything in front of the Immigration and Naturalisation Service. This step is where a well-curated file meets a rigid online form—small typos or the wrong procedure choice can send the Netherlands spouse visa back to “not-taken-into-consideration” status. Read once, act once.
Choose the right procedure: TEV or in-country
Most couples use the Entry & Residence procedure (TEV), in which:
- The Dutch sponsor files a combined MVV + residence-permit request while already in the Netherlands.
- The foreign partner picks up the MVV sticker at the Dutch embassy or consulate after approval.
Why it is preferred: one decision, one fee, and the IND clock (90 days) starts immediately.
Alternative routes:
- Embassy-first: The partner starts with an MVV alone, and the sponsor applies for the residence card afterward. Expect an extra 2–3 weeks.
- In-country switch: If the partner is legally in NL on another non-temporary permit (e.g., work, study), you may skip the MVV and file only for the family residence card. Overstayers cannot use this loophole.
Completing the forms step-by-step
- Log in to MyIND with your DigiD and open form 6013 “Residence with Partner – TEV”.
- Work through the tabs in order; the system will save drafts for 30 days.
- Upload evidence in merged PDFs (one per checklist item). Ideal naming convention:
01_Passports.pdf,02_BirthCertificates.pdf, etc. Each file must be under 4 MB; compress high-resolution scans if needed. - Fill in the Relationship Statement—both partners must sign and date. A scanned signature is acceptable.
- Double-check dates: marriage date, future address move-in date, and passport expiry must match your documents.
Paying the IND and other fees
The final screen shows the 2025 tariff: €228 for the partner, €57 per accompanying minor. Payment options:
- iDEAL (Dutch bank accounts)
- Credit card (Visa/Mastercard)
- SEPA direct debit
Other inevitable expenses to plan for:
| Fee | Amount (avg.) | When paid |
|---|---|---|
| Embassy MVV sticker | € 30-40 | At collection |
| Legalizations/Apostilles | € 10-60 per doc | At home country |
| Passport photo (Dutch spec) | € 10 | Embassy visit |
Where and how to lodge
After payment you receive an auto-email with your IND reference number—keep it safe. Depending on your location:
- Online filing (DigiD) – Most sponsors submit entirely online; no paper originals are sent unless the IND requests them later.
- Paper filing – If you lack DigiD (e.g., Dutch citizen living abroad), print the PDF pack, sign in blue ink, and post via registered mail to:
IND loket, Postbus 18, 9560 AA Ter Apel. Include a copy of the payment confirmation.
Finally, book the embassy biometrics appointment for the partner as soon as the IND approval letter appears in your inbox—the MVV sticker must be collected within three months of the decision. A same-day passport-return courier is usually available for an extra fee and can shave days off the relocation timeline.
Step 5 – Track Your Application and Respond to IND Requests
The “submit” button is only halftime. Until an IND officer signs off, your Netherlands spouse visa file can still rise smoothly to approval—or stall because a single document is missing. Staying on top of status changes and reacting quickly to any IND letters will shave weeks off the total timeline and prevent an automatic refusal.
Standard decision timelines & what influences them
Legally the IND must decide within 90 days on family-reunification applications; most straightforward partner cases wrap up in 4–10 weeks. Delays pop up when:
- Evidence is incomplete or unreadable
- Extra security/background checks are triggered (common for high-risk nationality lists)
- Peak seasons such as June–September overload caseworkers
- Public-sector strikes or IT outages (rare but real)
If the 90-day clock is about to expire, you (or your lawyer) may send a notice of default (“ingebrekestelling”) to push for a decision within two additional weeks.
How to provide additional information
An IND request for more evidence arrives as a “herstel verzuim” letter or secure e-mail. Key points:
- The letter lists exactly what is missing—read it twice.
- You usually get 2–4 weeks to fix the gap. Extensions are seldom granted, so act fast.
- Upload new PDFs via MyIND or send them by registered post quoting the reference number on every page.
- Keep the cover page of the courier receipt; it is your proof if the IND later claims nothing was received.
Monitoring progress
-
MyIND status codes
- “Ontvangen” – file received
- “In behandeling” – under consideration
- “Beslissing genomen” – decision made (letter follows)
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Phone help line +31 (0)88 043-0430: ask for a call-back; lines open 09:00–17:00 CET.
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Authorizing your partner: file the IND power-of-attorney form so the spouse abroad can also get updates.
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When to escalate: if silence persists past day 90, a lawyer can file a dwangsom claim—often enough to shake loose a verdict without court.
Diligent tracking and lightning-fast replies keep your application humming, setting you up for the next milestone: collecting the coveted MVV sticker.
Step 6 – Collect Your MVV Visa and Enter the Netherlands
An approval letter from the IND is not the finish line; your partner still has to pick up the MVV sticker that activates the Netherlands spouse visa. Think of this embassy visit as “identity control plus quality-check.” If anything is missing or spelled incorrectly, boarding a plane could become a very expensive no-go, so treat the appointment with the same care you gave the application file.
Embassy/consulate appointment and biometrics
Book the earliest slot through the embassy’s online system—some posts fill up weeks ahead. The partner must bring:
- Original passport (valid at least 6 months)
- IND approval letter (printout)
- One recent passport photo that follows Dutch ICAO specs (35 × 45 mm, light background)
At the counter, staff will scan fingerprints and capture a digital signature before placing the MVV sticker in the passport. The sticker is a multiple-entry Schengen visa valid for 90 days from the issue date, giving a comfortable window for relocation.
Verify the MVV sticker details
Before walking away, double-check:
- Spelling of first and last names
- VISA type/code: “VVR verblijf bij partner”
- Valid-from and valid-until dates
Spot an error? Ask for a correction on the spot; once you leave the premises the fix can take weeks and may require a new appointment.
Travel timeline and entry rules
Plan to enter the Netherlands early in the 90-day period—flight changes are cheaper than emergency embassy visits. Carry originals (or legalized copies) of key documents in your hand luggage—marriage certificate, birth certificates, income proof—because border officers can ask for them. Upon arrival, keep the passport with MVV sticker handy; it will also be needed at the IND desk for the residence-card biometrics in Step 7. Safe travels!
Step 7 – Register in the Netherlands and Pick Up Your Residence Card
Touchdown is exciting, but your Netherlands spouse visa is still only a sticker. To switch it into a full‐fledged residence card (VVR) you must first appear in two Dutch databases and tick a couple of health boxes. Knock out the tasks below in the first few weeks and life admin will feel a lot lighter.
Municipal registration (BRP) and getting your BSN
Dutch law says newcomers have to register in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP) of their municipality within five days of moving in. Book the appointment online—larger cities like Amsterdam and The Hague fill up fast.
Bring:
- Passport with MVV sticker
- Legalized birth certificate (original + translation)
- Rental contract, mortgage deed, or a signed woning inwoningverklaring from the main tenant/owner
The clerk will scan everything and hand you a letter with your Burgerservicenummer (BSN), the personal tax and social‐security code you need for jobs, banking, and health insurance. Check that your names and address are spelled exactly as in your passport; correcting mistakes later involves another appointment.
IND biometrics & residence card collection
Next stop is an IND desk (e.g., Utrecht, Amsterdam, Eindhoven). Book the slot online as soon as the BRP is done; appointments are usually available within a week.
Bring:
- Passport with MVV sticker
- Approval letter (print or digital)
- BRP registration receipt
Staff will take a new photo and confirm fingerprints. About two weeks later you receive a pick-up e-mail; collect the plastic residence card in person and verify:
- “Arbeid vrij toegestaan” printed on the back (unrestricted work)
- Expiry date—typically five years minus a few days from the approval date
Health insurance & tuberculosis test
If your nationality is on the TB list, schedule the GGD tuberculosis screening within three months; bring the completed IND TB form and €50–€60 in cash or PIN. Regardless of TB rules, everyone must activate Dutch basic health insurance (basisverzekering) within four months of BRP registration. Compare providers on independent sites, sign up online, and send your BSN when the insurer asks. Delay either requirement and you risk hefty fines from CAK or, worse, permit revocation, so set calendar reminders and get it done.
Step 8 – Live, Work, and Plan Your Future Residence Status
Card in hand, you have finally traded bureaucracy for everyday life. The residence document unlocks almost every right your Dutch partner already enjoys, but it also comes with responsibilities. Use the sections below to make sure you squeeze the most freedom—and the least stress—out of your new status.
Work and study rights for spouse-permit holders
The back of the card should read arbeid vrij toegestaan (work freely permitted). That single line means you may:
- Accept any paid job without a separate work permit (TWV)
- Register as a freelancer or start a company at the Chamber of Commerce
- Enroll in Dutch universities or vocational schools and keep the family permit while studying
Note: if you later swap to a student residence permit, tuition fees and health-insurance rules change, so check with the institution first.
Obligations to keep your permit valid
The Netherlands spouse visa is generous but not unconditional. You must:
- Live together at the registered address. Temporary travel is fine; permanent separation is not.
- Report changes—marriage breakdown, employer switch, new address—within four weeks via the MyIND portal.
- Maintain the income threshold. Only the Dutch sponsor’s earnings count, so warn HR before dropping below the statutory minimum.
Break-up scenario: if the relationship ends after three years together and at least one year in the Netherlands, you can often apply for an independent permit; otherwise the IND may revoke the card after a short grace period.
Extending, switching, or going for permanent residence or citizenship
- Extension: apply online three months before expiry; fee is about € 160 and usually only fresh income documents are required.
- Switching: you may change to permits for work, study, or self-employment without leaving the country; use the IND’s “change purpose” form.
- Permanent residence (EU-LTR) or Dutch nationality: after five continuous years of lawful stay, pass the civic-integration exam at level B1, show sufficient income, and prove you have no serious criminal record. Dual citizenship is limited, so get legal advice if you want to keep your original passport.
Quick-reference FAQs
- How long does the spouse application really take? Legal max is 90 days; most files close in 4–10 weeks.
- Can my husband or wife work? Yes—no restrictions.
- Do we need to show 12 months of cohabitation if unmarried? The IND wants proof of at least 6–12 months of a genuine relationship.
- What about spouses of international students? The student must meet the higher income test or you switch roles after graduation.
- What if we break up? You may qualify for an independent permit after 3-year/1-year rule; otherwise, you must leave or find a new residence basis.
- Is health insurance mandatory? Yes—take out Dutch basic cover within four months of registering in the BRP.
Key Takeaways
- Check that both of you meet the age, income, and relationship rules before spending a euro on translations.
- Collect every passport, certificate, and pay slip—legalized and translated—so the IND cannot call your file “incomplete.”
- If your partner’s nationality requires it, book and pass the Basic Civic Integration Exam abroad early to avoid timeline bottlenecks.
- File the combined TEV application online, upload tidy PDFs, and pay the €228 IND fee in one go.
- Watch MyIND like a hawk; reply to any herstel verzuim letter within the deadline to keep the 90-day clock moving.
- After approval, pick up the MVV sticker at the embassy, double-check the data, and enter the Netherlands within 90 days.
- Register at the gemeente, give biometrics at the IND desk, and collect the five-year residence card—work rights included.
- Keep cohabiting, report life changes, and after five years consider permanent residence or Dutch citizenship.
Need tailored help or an appeal? Schedule a consultation with the immigration team at Law & More and move forward with confidence.