Article 20 of the Aliens Act 2000 (Vreemdelingenwet 2000, Vw 2000) gives the IND the power to grant, refuse or withdraw a regular residence permit for an indefinite period (verblijfsvergunning regulier voor onbepaalde tijd). This permanent permit is not tied to a purpose such as work or a partner, and carries no restrictions or conditions (article 20(2) Vw 2000).
Table of contents
What are the conditions?
The conditions follow from article 21 Vw 2000 and the Aliens Decree 2000. In general you need:
- five uninterrupted years of lawful residence immediately before the application, with a non-temporary purpose at the time of application (residence before the age of eight does not count);
- sufficient independent and sustainable means of subsistence, unless you have had ten years of lawful residence;
- a passed civic integration exam (at least level A2) or an exemption;
- your main residence in the Netherlands.
The application can be refused after an irrevocable conviction for an offence carrying a prison sentence of three years or more, or if you pose a threat to national security.
How do you apply?
You apply to the IND and pay a fee (leges). The IND first checks whether you qualify for the EU long-term resident permit. The decision period is 90 days, which can be extended by up to six months (article 25 Vw 2000). You can object to a refusal within four weeks (article 69 Vw 2000).
Why is a permanent permit useful?
You no longer depend on your original purpose of stay. For a partner migrant, this means the right of residence continues if the relationship ends. The permit itself has no end date, but the residence document is valid for five years and must be renewed in time.
Frequently asked questions
Can a permanent permit be withdrawn?
Yes, for example if you move your main residence abroad, gave incorrect information or committed a serious offence.
Related terms
- Permanent residence permit
- EU long-term resident permit
- Article 25 Aliens Act 2000
- Civic integration
- Continued residence (voortgezet verblijf)
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