Immigration Request Template for Netherlands

An Immigration Request is a formal application you submit to Dutch immigration authorities (IND) when you want to live, work, or study in the Netherlands. It's the starting point for getting residence permits, work visas, and other immigration-related permissions under Dutch law.

The process typically involves submitting key documents like your passport, proof of income, employment contract, or study enrollment, depending on your situation. Dutch employers often help with these requests through the Highly Skilled Migrant program, while universities assist international students with their study-based applications. The IND reviews each request against specific criteria outlined in the Dutch Aliens Act.

Submit an Immigration Request when you plan to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days, or need to change your existing residence status. This applies when accepting a job offer, joining family members, starting studies, or setting up a business in the Netherlands.

File your Immigration Request at least 3-4 months before your intended arrival or status change. This timing is crucial because processing can take several weeks, and you'll need an approved request before making major life changes like signing housing contracts or starting work. Dutch employers sponsoring skilled workers often initiate these requests through the accelerated IND process.

• Work Permit Request: For skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and seasonal workers seeking employment authorization - includes salary requirements and job contract details
• Family Reunification Request: Used when joining family members already residing in the Netherlands - requires proof of relationship and financial means
• Study Permit Request: For international students enrolled in Dutch educational institutions - needs acceptance letter and proof of sufficient funds
• Startup Visa Request: Designed for innovative entrepreneurs launching businesses - requires detailed business plan and approved facilitator
• Knowledge Migrant Request: Specifically for highly skilled workers meeting salary thresholds - streamlined process through recognized sponsors

• Foreign Nationals: Primary applicants who initiate Immigration Requests for work, study, or family purposes in the Netherlands
• Dutch Employers: Companies that sponsor skilled workers and handle Immigration Requests through the recognized sponsor program
• Immigration Lawyers: Legal professionals who guide clients through the application process and ensure compliance with Dutch immigration law
• IND Officers: Government officials who review and process Immigration Requests, making decisions on residence permits
• Educational Institutions: Universities and colleges that support international students with study-related Immigration Requests

• Personal Documentation: Gather valid passport, birth certificate, and recent passport photos - all documents must be officially translated
• Purpose Evidence: Collect employment contract, university acceptance letter, or family relationship proof depending on request type
• Financial Proof: Prepare bank statements, salary slips, or scholarship details showing sufficient means of support
• Housing Plans: Document intended residence address or rental agreement in the Netherlands
• Health Requirements: Obtain health insurance coverage proof and tuberculosis test results when required
• Application Forms: Complete all relevant IND forms accurately, using our platform to ensure proper documentation

• Personal Details: Full legal name, date of birth, nationality, and current residence address matching official documents
• Immigration Purpose: Clear statement of intended stay category (work, study, family) with supporting documentation references
• Duration Declaration: Specific dates for intended stay period and type of permit requested
• Financial Guarantees: Income statements or sponsor declarations meeting minimum requirement thresholds
• Legal Declarations: Signed statements about criminal history, previous stays, and authenticity of provided information
• Contact Information: Reliable contact details in both home country and Netherlands for official communications

People often confuse an Immigration Request with an Immigration Form. While they might sound similar, they serve different purposes in the Dutch immigration process.

• Purpose and Scope: An Immigration Request is a comprehensive application package for long-term residence rights, while an Immigration Form is typically a single document used for shorter procedures like visa extensions or address changes
• Documentation Requirements: Immigration Requests need extensive supporting evidence (financial statements, employment contracts, housing arrangements), whereas Immigration Forms usually require minimal additional documentation
• Processing Time: Immigration Requests undergo thorough review processes taking several months, while Immigration Forms often receive faster processing for simpler administrative changes
• Legal Impact: Immigration Requests lead to formal residence rights and can affect long-term status, while Immigration Forms generally handle routine updates or minor modifications to existing permits