Coronavirus (COVID-19): effects on application or stay

Last updated: 28 July 2020 - Making an appointment

Contents

Below you will find information about the following subjects (in this order):

• Delivering residence documents at home

• Making an appointment at an IND desk

• Visiting an IND desk

Delivering residence documents at home

Who will have their residence documents delivered at home?

The IND sends you a letter if your residence document will be delivered at home. You will only receive a letter if you:

• did a follow-up application. This means that you had a residence document from the IND before;

• paid the costs for the application (fees);

• don't have an asylum residence permit.

Have you not received a letter about delivering your residence document at home? Then you have been called or you will receive a letter inviting you to make an appointment at an IND desk to collect your residence document. (Read more under 'Making an appointment at an IND desk' below).

When will my residence document be delivered at home?

You will receive your residence document within 8 weeks after the letter has been sent. You can check in the PostNL app when mail is on its way. Download the PostNL app and sign up for 'My Post'. With this service you will be notified before 7am every morning when mail is on the way. For more information about My Post, please visit the PostNL website (only in Dutch, opens in new window).

What happens to my package if I am not home?

If you are not home, PostNL will try to deliver it again later. Are you not at home? Then the deliverer takes the package to a PostNL service point in your area. Your package will not be delivered to the neighbors. The deliverer puts a letter in your mailbox with a 'niet-thuiscode'. With this code you can check online where your package has been taken. If you pick up your package at the PostNL service point, you must show your ID there. You may only pick up the package yourself. More information can be found on the PostNL website (opens in new window).

I am not at home for a long time (for example due to vacation). In the meantime, will my residence document remain at the PostNL service point?

Your package will remain at the PostNL service point for 1 week. PostNL then returns the package to the IND. Has your package been returned to the IND? Then you must make an appointment to collect the residence document at an IND desk. Call the information line (088 043 0430) to make an appointment. It can take a while before your residence document is returned to the IND.

Is it safe to have a residence document delivered?

For safety, we send the package by registered mail. This means that we receive proof when the package has been sent and received. Only you personally may receive the package. Therefore, you must show proof of identity at the door. This is a passport, a European identity card, a Dutch driving license or an alien document. You must also sign a receipt. Due to the corona measures, this is slightly different than normal. This ensures that the residence document arrives at the right address.

I already have an appointment at the IND desk or expat center to collect my residence document. Will this appointment take place?

The appointment remains. If we see that you already have an appointment, we will call you. You can then let us know how you want to receive your residence document.

I urgently need the residence document. Can I get the residence document earlier than 8 weeks?

If you urgently need the residence document, you can call the information line: 088 043 0430. Please indicate to the employee why you urgently need the residence document. They will then contact the IND desk where your residence document is located.

Making an appointment at an IND desk

Can I make an appointment at an IND desk?

Yes, you can make an appointment online if you have received a letter inviting you to:

• Have your biometrics taken (passport photo, fingerprints and signature). Make an appointment online.
Are you a UK national (or family member)? Then please make an appointment via the Brexit page.

• Collect your residence document. Make an appointment online.
The IND has not sent any invitations to collect residence documents in the past period. This was due to the coronavirus measures at the desks. Have you received a positive decision on your application? But not yet a letter about collecting your residence document? Then you will receive this letter in August 2020.

Only in case of emergencies, you can call our information line. Click here to find the phone number.

To collect a residence endorsement sticker or apply for a return visa, you can schedule an appointment by phone.

Why do I not see any available days if I want to make an appointment online?

It is currently very busy at the IND desks due to the corona crisis. Therefore, it may happen that there are no available days at the desk you choose. You can check the online schedule regularly to see if a new date opened up. Every day, new dates open up at the IND desks, because appointments are being cancelled.

Does the letter about collecting your residence document state that you must collect this within a certain time? You may not be able to do that within this time. Your residence document will remain at the IND desk until you have an appointment to collect it.

Only in case of emergencies, you can call our information line. Click here to find the phone number.

Why does the IND sometimes cancel appointments for biometrics?

At every appointment we check our system to see if we have your biometric data. And if so, whether we can use them for your new residence document. If this is the case, you do not have to visit the IND desk. Not even if you received a letter asking you to make an appointment. We will call or email you if your appointment is canceled.

I have not been able to collect a residence document or residence sticker from an IND desk. Do I still have the right to be in the Netherlands, or to work?

Yes, you have the rights associated with your residence permit, even without your residence document. You may continue to work if your residence permit permits you to work. Your residence permit rights are in the letter with the decision on your application. Do you have a recognised sponsor? Then your sponsor received this letter.

What if you have not received a decision on your application? Or if you want to collect a residence sticker for another reason? If you have the right to stay in the Netherlands, then this right of residence also applies without the sticker. You may work if you have this right. The residence sticker is usually proof of this right, but cannot be provided due to the current measures.

Visiting an IND desk

What measures does the IND take at the desks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus?

The IND has designed all desks differently to comply with the rules and recommendations of the government. The IND has:

• placed plexiglass screens on all counters;

• made walking routes in the waiting areas. These are indicated by stickers and signs;

• placed hand disinfectant;

• adjusted the layout of the waiting areas, making it possible to keep a distance of 1.5 meters.

What do I have to take into account when visiting an IND desk?

When visiting an IND desk, the following applies:

• Stay at home if you have a cold.

• Do not bring anyone else, come by yourself as much as possible.

• Keep 1.5 meters (2 arm lengths) distance  from others.

• Be there at the agreed time. In other words: not too early or too late.

• Upon entry, clean your hands with hand disinfectant.

• Pay with your debit card (pin).

Last updated: 4 August 2020
Question 2 - entry ban will again apply to Algeria from 5 August 2020 (midnight)

I live or stay outside Europe. Can I travel to the Netherlands?

Since Thursday 19 March 2020, an entry ban applies to many people from countries outside Europe. Europe means: EU countries, Schengen countries and the United Kingdom. The travel restriction does not apply to everyone. For example, you can travel if you have a valid mvv or residence permit. Or if your travel is essential. The entry ban does not apply to residents of certain countries. For more information on the entry ban and exceptions, visit netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in a new window).

For which countries does the entry ban not apply?

From 1 July 2020, residents of these countries are allowed to travel to the Netherlands again:

Algeria*, Australia, Canada, China**, Georgia, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia and Uruguay.

For residents of these countries the normal conditions for entry and residence in the Netherlands apply.

* Please note: from 5 August 2020 at 00:00, the entry ban will again apply to Algeria (Dutch page).  
** Please note: residents of China are only allowed to enter the Netherlands if China lets in EU citizens again. This is not the case at the moment, so residents of China are currently not admitted to the Netherlands.

I have a long-distance relationship (not married) with a partner from a country for which the entry ban applies. Can my partner travel to the Netherlands?

For long-distance relationships, an exception to the entry ban applies from 27 July 2020. Your partner may come to the Netherlands for a short stay visit if you and your partner meet the conditions. This exception only applies to you if you have Dutch nationality or are an EU/EEA citizen. Read all conditions on Government.nl (opens in new window). There you will also read where you can go with questions about this scheme.

Please note: Does your partner have a visa requirement? Then your partner must always apply for a short-stay visa at the Dutch embassy or consulate (opens in new window). In that case, please do not ask the IND for advice on whether you meet the conditions. The IND cannot issue a visa. Even if the embassy or consulate is closed. For questions about the visa application, please contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (opens in new window).

For partners from countries for which the entry ban does not apply, the normal conditions for entry and residence apply.

I have the nationality of Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, United States of America or South Korea. That is why I do not need an mvv (exemption). Can I enter the Netherlands?

From 1 July 2020, you may enter the Netherlands again if you live in one of the countries to which the entry ban does not apply. Do you live in a country to which the entry ban does apply? For example the United States? Then you may, as a person exempted from the mvv requirement, only travel to the Netherlands if you have a vital function or need. This is the case if you have received a letter from the IND (kennisgeving) stating that you will receive a residence permit as:

• Highly skilled migrant (including holder of a European blue card, ICT directive or researcher). As a highly skilled migrant, are you going to stay and work in the Netherlands for less than 90 days? Then you must be in possession of a work permit (TWV) from the Netherlands Employees Insurance Agency (UWV). In that case you have no letter from the IND.
• Student (college, university)
• Family member of a highly skilled migrant or student (partner, spouse, child)
• Family member of a Dutch sponsor (partner, spouse, child)

Does this apply to you? Then your flight to the Netherlands must be direct (no transit). You must bring the following documents with you when traveling to the Netherlands:

• For highly skilled migrants (including holder of a European Blue Card, ICT Directive or researcher): The letter stating that you will be issued a residence permit (kennisgeving). And a written statement from your employer stating that you must be in the Netherlands for your work and why. It should also state why you cannot come to the Netherlands at a later time.
• For students: The letter stating that you will receive a residence permit (kennisgeving).
• For a family member of a highly skilled migrant or student: If you are not traveling together, your family member will need a copy of the letter stating that you will receive a residence permit (kennisgeving).
• For a family member of a Dutch sponsor: The letter stating that you are getting a residence permit (kennisgeving). And official documents that prove your family relationship.

Is the airline not allowing you on the flight because they don't find the letter (kennisgeving) enough evidence? Please contact the Royal Netherlands Marechausse. The phone number is 0800 1814. If you are calling from abroad +31 88 958 1814.

I want to fly to the Netherlands. Do I need a health screening form? And should I self-quarantine after arrival?

Anyone aged 13 years and over flying from or to the Netherlands must fill in a health screening form. This is a list of questions that you will get from the airline you are flying with. What if you fill in that you have symptoms that could be related to COVID-19? Then you will not be allowed on the flight.

Travelers from certain countries and areas are urged to self-quarantine for 2 weeks upon arrival in the Netherlands. This is the case, for example, if you are traveling from a country for which the entry ban applies. More information about quarantine and the health screening form is available on the website of the Dutch Government (opens in new window).

I have a transit visa. Can I travel via Schiphol airport?

Yes, an exception is made for travelers that have a transit visa. You are allowed to have a stopover at Schiphol airport if you have a travel ticket to a country outside the Schengen area. A transit visa does not give you access to the Netherlands. You are not allowed to leave the international zone of the airport.

I am abroad with a valid residence permit and wish to return to the Netherlands. What should I do?

Click here to find the frequently asked questions about assistance abroad and contact details of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (opens in new window). If you need to self-quarantine depends on which area you traveled from. Read more information about traveling to the Netherlands (opens in new window).

Can I travel with an expired residence permit?

No, you will need a valid residence permit to travel. Under the heading Residence permit you can read what to do if your residence permit is no longer valid.

Last updated: 7 July 2020

​Can I apply for a short stay (Schengen) visa?

In countries where there is no longer an entry ban, the Netherlands will again issue visas if possible. This depends on the local situation in that country. Read more about visas in the Q&A on netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in new window). In case you cannot find the information there, please contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Click here to find their contact details (opens in new window).

I have applied for a short-stay visa to come to the Netherlands. Or I have already been granted a visa. I cannot use this visa on time. Where can I go with questions?

Read more about visas in the Q&A on netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in new window). In case you cannot find the information there, please contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Click here to find their contact details (opens in new window).

I am staying in the Netherlands with a short-stay visa which has expired or will expire soon. I cannot leave. Can I apply for an extension?

You can apply for an extension of your short-stay visa if you cannot return to your country of origin. The following situation must apply to you:

• Your visa has expired or expires within 1 month; and

• The airline has cancelled your flight. Or you had not booked a flight yet. You cannot book a (new) flight; and

• You still meet the conditions for a short-stay visa .

Would you like to apply for a visa extension? Please call the IND's information line. Click here to find the phone number. Keep your visa number and passport to hand.

Is the IND going to renew your visa? Then you will not immediately have a visa sticker placed in your passport. You will receive a letter of confirmation. This visa extension is only valid within the Netherlands. You cannot travel to other Schengen countries. An application for extending your visa is free.

My visa is extended to 180 days, but expires soon. Can I apply for an extension again?

The total stay with a visa may never exceed 180 days. It is not possible to extend longer than 180 days. If your right of residence expires, the government expects you to try to return. Do you need help to return? Please contact your country's embassy or consulate in the Netherlands (opens in new window).

I have extended my short-stay visa in the Netherlands. I can travel to my country of origin via another Schengen country. Can I do this with my visa?

If you now extend your short-stay visa, it is only valid in the Netherlands. However, you may travel to an airport in another Schengen country to take a flight to your country of origin. You are not allowed to stay in another Schengen country with your extended visa.

I am staying in the Netherlands without a visa (I do not need a visa), but my permit-exempt term is over or will expire soon. Do I have to leave the Netherlands?

You cannot apply for an extension of a permit-exempt term. This is the period of 90 days out of 180 days that you may stay in the Netherlands (and the Schengen area). Is your permit-exempt term about to expire and you cannot leave? You do not need to report this to the IND. The Dutch government understands that it may be more difficult to return during this period. The government will therefore be less strict in controlling people who stay longer than is allowed. But the government does expect you to try to return when your right of residence expires. Do you need help to return home? Please contact your country's embassy or consulate in the Netherlands (opens in new window).

I have a short-stay visa (or do not need a visa) and would like to travel to the Netherlands. Is this possible?

Since Thursday 19 March 2020, an entry ban applies to many people from countries outside Europe. Europe means: EU countries, Schengen countries and the United Kingdom. The travel restriction does not apply to everyone. Since 1 July 2020, there is no longer an entry ban for a number of countries. Are you a resident of a country for which the entry ban does not apply? Or if is your travel essential? Then you can travel to the Netherlands. For more information on the entry ban and exceptions, visit netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in a new window).

I am visiting the Netherlands on a short stay visa from another Schengen country. Can I apply for an extension of my visa here?

You can apply for a visa extension from the IND. Please call the IND's information line. Click here to find the phone number.

Last updated: 22 July 2020 - questions 5, 6, 7; 23 July 2020 - question 8

​I have a valid mvv, for the Netherlands or another Schengen country. Can I travel to the Netherlands?

With a valid mvv you will have access to the Netherlands, or another Schengen country. Keep in mind that in many places traveling is not possible or is not recommended. For more information about access to the Netherlands visit netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in a new window).

I would like to apply for an mvv for myself or someone else. It this possible?

You can request an mvv. The IND is continuing to handle applications. Keep in mind that it can take longer before you can collect the mvv. And that your situation may change due to the measures. As a result, you may no longer meet the conditions for obtaining an mvv. Not sure if you still meet the conditions in the future? The IND advises you not to apply for an mvv (yet).

Can I collect my mvv from the Dutch embassy?

That differs per embassy. Some embassies and consulates are open or will reopen (in part). These had been closed in recent months due to the coronavirus. More information is available on the website netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in new window).

Some people can make an appointment to collect the mvv sooner than others. You will possibly have priority if you belong to one of the exception categories of the EU entry ban (opens in new window). For example if you are a family member of a Dutch citizen. Or if you have an essential function or need. Knowledge migrants and students are also given priority.

The embassy where I have to collect my mvv is still closed. What now?

Not all embassies can open yet. This is due to the local situation. Is your embassy still closed? Foreign Affairs will then only issue an mvv if you fall under an exception category of the EU entry ban (opens in new window). Or if you need an mvv with exceptional urgency. And if the local situation allows it. This differs per embassy. It is still possible that you cannot pick up an mvv yet. The IND will only consider your case urgent if you meet these three criteria:

• You can prove that you can travel to the Netherlands at this time. This means that there are no physical restrictions and that the borders are open. Flights are departing from your country to the Netherlands. 

• Your work or research comes under the vital professions.

• You need to explain why your case is urgent. And you have to prove that this urgency relates to a vital profession. 

If you meet all three criteria, ask your employer to contact the IND. The IND will then determine whether the case is indeed urgent.

I have to collect my mvv in time, but this is not possible because of the measures against the coronavirus. What should I do?

You normally have 3 months to collect your mvv. This has been extended to 6 months because of the corona crisis. What if it is not possible to collect your mvv within 6 months due to the coronavirus measures? The embassy or consulate will handle your case flexibly if you collect the mvv within 3 months following those 6 months. Please make an appointment when this is possible again. At your appointment, you must explain that you could not pick up your mvv sooner because of the corona crisis.

Please check netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in new window) to find out when you can make an appointment at the embassy or consulate.

I have already collected my mvv. Until now I could not travel to the Netherlands because of the coronavirus. And my mvv is almost no longer valid. What should I do?

Can you soon travel to the Netherlands? But is your mvv no longer valid? You can make a new appointment as soon as the embassy or consulate reopens. This appointment has to take place within 90 days after your current mvv expires.  At the appointment you will have to explain that you could not travel with your mvv because of the measures. The embassy or consulate will then reissue your mvv.

Has it been more than 90 days since your mvv expired? Then the embassy or consulate cannot just reissue the mvv. You must then make a new application first. This can be done in the same way as you made the previous application. Have you received a positive decision on the new application? Then make an appointment to collect your new mvv from the embassy or consulate.

My regular provisional residence permit (mvv) has been approved. But I am currently in the Netherlands and as a result of the coronavirus I cannot travel to my country of origin to collect my mvv. What should I do?

Normally you have to travel back to collect your mvv. The IND understands that it is sometimes not possible to collect the mvv now, because you are unable tot travel due to the corona crisis. Therefore, an exception is made if you meet the following 5 conditions:

• You were in your country of origin or country of continuous residence when you or your sponsor applied for an mvv. (Continuous residence means that you can lawfully reside in that country for more than 3 months. You have a valid residence permit there or are waiting for a decision on your application for a residence permit.);
• You traveled to the Netherlands with a short-stay visa. Or, if you did not need a visa, in the permit-exempt term;
• You entered the Netherlands between 1 January 2020 and (before) 1 June 2020;
• Your mvv application was approved when you were already in the Netherlands;
• You could not return to your country of origin or continuous residence before June 15 due to travel restrictions.

Do all 5 conditions apply to you? Then you do not have to collect the mvv. Make an appointment at an IND desk to have your biometrics taken (passport photo, fingerprints and signature). You can find out how to do this under the heading 'IND desks: biometrics and residence documents' on this page. The IND uses the biometrics to make your residence document.

Please bring along to the appointment at the IND desk:

• the letter stating that you are getting a residence permit (kennisgeving)
• the original documents mentioned in this letter
• your passport

Do you not meet the 5 conditions? Then you must collect your mvv in the country of origin or continuous residence, when this is possible again. You cannot collect your mvv in the Netherlands. For more information, visit netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in new window).

I want to collect my mvv but the embassy in the country where I am staying is still closed. However, I can make an appointment at the Dutch embassy in a nearby country, is this allowed?

This is only possible if you are allowed to travel to that country. This means that there are no travel restrictions and the borders are open. You also need permission from the IND. Please call the contact person (contactpersoon) that handles your case at the IND about this. Your contact person must inform the embassy that you can collect the mvv from another embassy. Only then can you make an appointment at the new embassy. Are you already in the Netherlands and do you need to collect your mvv? Then this does not apply to you. The IND is still investigating the options for this group.

I want to collect my mvv, but the embassy (or consulate) in the country where I am staying is still closed. I see that I can make an appointment at the Dutch embassy in a neighboring country, is this allowed?

This is only allowed in special cases. Since it is very busy at embassies and consulates that are open again. The following situation should apply to you:

• Your case is urgent. This is the case when the 9-month period in which you can collect your mvv is almost over;
• You can travel to the neighboring country. There are no physical restrictions and the borders are open;
• The embassy or consulate in the neighboring country has time and room to take over your case. The IND will look into this.
  

The IND must give permission to collect your mvv from another embassy. Therefore call your contact person at the IND. You can find the phone number in the letter from the IND stating that you will receive an mvv. The contact person will then check whether your case is urgent. And whether there is room at the embassy in the neighboring country. Did you get permission? Only then can you make an appointment at the embassy to collect your mvv.

Do you want to come to the Netherlands as a student? Then your Dutch educational institution must contact the IND about changing the embassy. Read more about this under the heading Employer, educational or research institution.

Are the civic integration exams still taking place abroad?

At some embassies it is possible again to take exams. Has your exam or the exam of your spouse been canceled? Then you will be notified as soon as it is possible to make an appointment. More information about the possibilities to take the civic integration exam abroad can be found at netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in new window). General information about the civic integration examination abroad can be found at naarnederland.nl (opens in new window).

Last updated: 23 July 2020
Family - question 1 (flex worker)

Contents

The information below is divided into a general part and parts with additional information about a specific purpose of stay.

• Residence permit: general information
• EU
• Family
• Work
• Study and orientation year

​Residence permit: general information

I am abroad and have a valid residence permit, but I cannot return to the Netherlands. Does this have consequences for my residence permit?

With a residence permit, you may only be abroad for a certain period of time. How long you may stay outside the Netherlands depends on which residence permit you have. Read more about this on the page 'Main residence in the Netherlands'. Are you unable to travel back to the Netherlands in time due to the measures against corona? If you can explain that this is not your fault, there will be no consequences for your residence permit. This also does not affect future applications. For example, if you want to apply for a permanent residence permit or naturalisation.

I am abroad and my residence permit has expired or is about to expire. What should I do?

To travel back to the Netherlands without a valid residence permit, you need an entry visa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs temporarily only issues entry visas for urgent cases. This means that you can only apply for an entry visa if you come under the exceptions(opens in new window). Does this apply to you? Then please contact the Ministry of Foreign affairs. Click here to find their contact details (opens in new window).

What if this exception does not apply to you? When the Ministry of Foreign Affairs starts to issue entry visas again, more information will be available on their page 'Residence permit lost, stolen or expired abroad' (opens in new window).

You can also extend a residence permit at the IND from abroad.  Please do this before your residence permit expires. If you submit the application after your residence permit has expired, you may then have a residence gap. What if you cannot submit certain documents (on time) because of the measures against the coronavirus? The IND will be flexible in handling such cases. You can enter the Netherlands again if you have an entry visa.

I should have collected a residence document or residence sticker from an IND desk, but in my case this is not possible at the moment. Do I still have the right to be in the Netherlands or to work?

Yes, you have the rights associated with your residence permit, even without your residence document. You may continue to work if your residence permit permits you to work. Your residence permit rights are in the letter with the decision on your application. Do you have a recognised sponsor? Then your sponsor received this letter.

What if you have not received a decision on your application? Or if you want to collect a residence sticker for another reason? If you have the right to stay in the Netherlands, then this right of residence also applies without the sticker. You may work if you have this right. The residence sticker is usually proof of this right, but cannot be provided due to the current measures.

I no longer have the right to stay in the Netherlands. But I cannot travel back to my country. Is this a problem?

Request an extension of your residence document if this is possible. What if an extension is not possible? Then you have to leave the Netherlands, if possible. The Dutch government understands that it may be more difficult to return during this period. The government will therefore be less strict in controlling people who stay longer than is allowed. But the government does expect you to try to return when your right of residence expires. Do you need help to return home? Please contact your country's embassy or consulate in the Netherlands (opens in new window).

I want to apply for a permanent asylum residence permit. But I can't pick up my integration diploma. What now?

You can apply for a permanent asylum residence permit as usual. Do you not have an integration diploma because of the measures against the coronavirus? The result letter from DUO is temporarily sufficient proof that you have obtained an integration diploma. DUO is also sending diplomas via registered post. You can find more information on the DUO website.

I or my partner or family member must undergo a TB test (tuberculosis) carried out by the Area Health Service (GGD). The GGD in my region temporarily does not carry out TB tests. What now?

Normally, the TB test must have been done within 3 months after the residence permit is granted. What if this is not possible within 3 months, because the GGD is temporarily not testing on tuberculosis? Because of the measures against the coronavirus, the IND is flexible in handling such cases. Make an appointment with the GGD as soon as possible, when this is possible again. Do you want to know if you can undergo a TB test (again)? Then please check the GGD website in your region, via ggd.nl (opens in new window).

EU

I am staying in the Netherlands as the family member of an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen. And because of the coronavirus measures, I cannot submit an application for verification against EU law. What should I do?

At the moment it is not yet possible to submit an application online or in writing. The IND is working on a solution. If the solution has been found, you can read it here. Legally, you can continue to live in the Netherlands if you meet the conditions. This is also the case if you do not have a residence sticker in your passport. Find out what the conditions are. What if you are asked to prove your right of residence? If you explain the situation, the Royal Marechaussee and police will handle flexibly.

I have applied for verification against EU law at an IND desk. Now I no longer have sufficient resources. What now?

Can you prove that the coronavirus crisis is the direct reason that you are no longer meeting the income requirement? Then the right of residence will not be ended, or your application will not be rejected for that reason. However, you must have had sufficient resources when you applied at an IND desk.

Family

I am a sponsor and have applied for a residence permit (decision not yet received) for my partner or family member. Because of the coronavirus crisis, I no longer meet the income requirements. What now?

The conditions for the residence permit include the condition that your income must be high enough (sufficient). And that you have been receiving the income for long enough (sustainable). As a result of the coronavirus crisis, the IND is being more flexible with the income conditions.

• Income from employment
  Under the short-time working scheme (wtv), which has since been discontinued, you can temporarily have a lower income. Do you come below the required amount because of the wtv? The IND considers your lower income to be sufficient because this is a temporary measure. However, you must have had sufficient income when you applied.
  
  Your application will temporarily not be rejected because your income is no longer sustainable due to the coronavirus crisis. For example, because you lost your job because of the coronavirus crisis. You must have applied for the residence permit for your partner or family member when your income was still sustainable.
  
  Was your income already not sufficient and/or sustainable when you applied? Then the usual current income requirements apply. 
  
  
• Income from self-employment or flexible employment
  Usually, you are not allowed to receive welfare benefits. However, the IND understands that as a self-employed entrepreneur or flex worker, you may require temporary assistance during the coronavirus crisis. Do you receive support under the Temporary bridging measure for self-employed professionals (Tozo)? Or the Temporary bridging measure for flexible employees (TOFA)? The application for your partner or family member will not be rejected for this reason. This exception only applies to the Tozo and TOFA. However, you must have submitted the application before you applied for assistance under the Tozo and TOFA.

Notify the IND
If you no longer meet the income requirements, you are obliged to let the IND know by letter. The address is listed under 'Applications for a residence permit' on the web page about post. More information about a sponsor's legal obligations can be read on the web page 'Legal obligations private sponsor'.

Work

I have a residence permit as a self-employed person. I would like to apply for support under the Temporary bridging measure for self-employed professionals (Tozo). Does this affect my residence permit?

Normally, you are not allowed to receive social benefits if you have a residence permit as an independent entrepreneur. However, the IND understands that the corona crisis may require temporary assistance. If you apply for support under the Temporary bridging measure for self-employed professionals (Tozo), you will not lose your residence permit for this reason. This also applies to your partner or family member's residence permit if you are their sponsor. However, you must notify the IND that you are receiving support under Tozo. Find out how to do this on the page 'Legal obligations of the foreign national'. For more information about Tozo, please visit Business.gov.nl (opens in new window).

My residence permit as a start-up is about to expire. I would therefore like to apply for a residence permit as a self-employed person. What impact does the coronavirus crisis have on my application?

When assessing the application for a residence permit as a self-employed person (following residence as a start-up), the IND usually looks at the likelihood of the start-up being successful. A statement from a reliable business mentor (facilitator) in the Netherlands is important. The coronavirus crisis makes it difficult to assess whether a start-up will be successful. Therefore, the IND will focus on progress and collaboration during the past year and the chances of success under normal circumstances. The facilitator's statement remains important in this regard. You also still have to meet the conditions that apply to residence as a self-employed person. Find out what the conditions are on the web page 'Self-employed person'.

I have a residence permit for the purpose of residence of highly skilled migrant or work in paid employment. Due to the corona crisis, I temporarily earn less than the income requirement that applies to me. What does this mean for my residence permit?

You must meet a monthly wage criteria. This still applies. This means that you may not earn less than the required amount that applies to you. If your employer has made use of the temporary short-time working scheme (wtv), which has now been withdrawn, the IND will handle this situation flexibly. Your residence permit will not be revoked if you temporarily receive less salary for that reason. Is your salary below the required amount for another reason? Then this may have consequences for your residence permit. The IND can withdraw the residence permit. Your employer must inform the IND if you earn less than the wage criteria.

Study and orientation year

I have a residence permit as a student. Due to the corona crisis, I temporarily have less income than the income requirement that applies to me. What does this mean for my residence permit?

As a student, you normally have to show that you have enough money for the coming academic year. Due to the corona crisis, the IND is handling this income requirement flexibly. This applies to the academic year 2020-2021. And only for students who already studied in the Netherlands in 2019-2020. Do you have less income than the required amount due to the corona crisis? Your residence permit will not be revoked for that reason. You still have to inform your educational institution how much money you have for the coming year. And you still cannot apply for benefits from public funds. Do you receive money from the Temporary Bridging Scheme for Flexible Workers (TOFA)? This has no consequences for your residence permit.

I have a residence permit for the purpose of 'orientation year for highly educated persons' (search year). Because of the corona crisis, I cannot find a job within one year. Can I extend my residence permit?

The residence permit for 'orientation year for highly educated people' is valid for 1 year and cannot be extended. This is stated in the law. The government considers it too drastic to amend the law in response to the corona crisis. This is because it is unclear how quickly the situation on the labor market will improve.

What can the IND do for me?
The IND understands that the corona crisis has a large impact on the opportunities for international students to find a job as highly skilled migrants. And the IND knows that your knowledge and talent is important to the Netherlands. It has therefore been decided to extend the application of the reduced salary criteria for highly skilled migrants. The reduced salary criterion will also apply to anyone who:

• Had a residence permit for 'orientation year for highly educated people'; and
• Did not find a job as a highly skilled migrant within the orientation year (1 year); and
• Finds a job as a highly skilled migrant (from abroad) within 3 years after graduation.

This means that after the orientation year you may no longer stay in the Netherlands to look for a job. But the low salary criterion may be beneficial for you. It makes it easier for recent graduates to find a job as a highly skilled migrant in the Netherlands from abroad.

Has your residence permit expired, but are you unable to leave the Netherlands due to the measures against the coronavirus? Please read what to do under the question 'I no longer have the right to stay in the Netherlands. But I cannot travel back to my country. Is this a problem?' (under the heading Residence permit: general information)

Last updated: 3 August 2020 - question 6 added

​I am an employer, educational or research institution. Because of the measures against the coronavirus, my employee or student cannot come to the Netherlands. Do I need to report this to the IND?

Yes, under your obligation to provide information, you must report changes to the IND within 4 weeks. For example in the following situations:

• The employee or student that I have applied for residence for is no longer coming to the Netherlands.
• The employee or student that I have applied for residence for is coming to the Netherlands later than indicated in the application.
• The employee or student with a residence permit cannot return to the Netherlands. As a result, they can no longer meet the conditions associated with the residence permit. For example, a highly skilled worker will earn less than the required salary in the coming period, because they cannot work.

Will the student continue to follow (online) education from abroad? Then you only need to report this if the student has deregistered from the BRP. Please indicate that the reason for leaving was the coronavirus crisis. On deregistration from the BRP, a withdrawal procedure is automatically started which in this case is incorrect. If the student registers again in the BRP on returning to the Netherlands, then you do not need to notify the IND.

Report these and other changes that are important for the right of residence in the Business Portal, DVS or use one of the notification forms on our website. And make sure that you record these situations in your administration because of your duty to keep records. You can find more information regarding your legal obligations and the notification forms on the following web pages: Legal obligations (recognised) sponsor labour-related purposes, Legal obligations recognised sponsor researcher and Legal obligations recognised sponsor study.

As a result of the measures against the coronavirus I am not able to report changes on time. What should I do?

Under the obligation to provide information, you must report changes to the IND within 4 weeks. For example, registrations and de-registrations. If you cannot manage to do this within 4 weeks, please indicate in each case why it is being reported too late. Report this in the Business Portal, DVS or use one of the notification forms on our website. The IND will take into account the facts and circumstances mentioned when handling the notification.

I am an employer and have received assistance under the short-time working scheme (wtv), which has since been discontinued. As a result, temporarily my employee does not meet the applicable income requirements. What next?

If temporarily your employee does not meet the wage criteria because of your reliance on the wtv scheme, this will not affect their residence permit. Their permit will not be revoked as a result. The IND is handling this situation flexibly. 

Under the obligation to provide information, you must report this to the IND within 4 weeks. Report this in the Business Portal or use one of the notification forms on our website. And make sure that you record these situations in your administration because of your duty to keep records.

I would like to save on my labour costs. Are there consequences if I let my employee work fewer hours or take unpaid leave?

Your employee must meet certain monthly income requirements. These still apply. Does your employee's salary fall below the required amount due to the measures you take? This may have an impact on the employee's residence permit. The IND can withdraw the residence permit. According to the existing obligation to provide information, if your employee no longer meets the income requirements you must report this to the IND within 4 weeks.

Have you applied for assistance under the short-time working scheme (wtv)? Read more about this under the question 'I am an employer and have received assistance under the short-time working scheme (wtv), which has now been withdrawn. As a result, temporarily my employee does not meet the applicable income requirements. What next?'

For more information on financial arrangements, such as the Temporary Emergency Bridging Measure for Sustained Employment (NOW), please see the overview on Government.nl(opens in new window).

As a result of the limited services at the IND desks, my employee(s) cannot receive a residence endorsement sticker allowing them to work. Can I still legally allow my employee(s) to work now?

Yes, even without a residence endorsement sticker, your employee(s) may work as long as the issued residence permit allows. Residence documents are temporarily only being issued to clients who have travelled to the Netherlands with a regular provisional residence permit (mvv). 

Not all embassies are open. Can a student collect his MVV from an embassy in a neighboring country?

This is only allowed in special cases. It is very busy at embassies and consulates that are open again. The following situation should apply:

• The case is urgent. This is the case, for example, when the 9-month period in which the MVV must be collected is almost over. Or if the student has to be physically present at the start of the academic year;

• The student can travel to the neighboring country. There are no physical blocks and the borders are open.
  

As an educational institution, can you prove that this is the case? Send your request for change of the embassy with substantiation to the special email address of the IND that is known to you (see also the newsletter of 3 August). The IND will then check whether your case is indeed urgent. And whether there is room at the embassy in the neighboring country. Only then the IND can give permission to collect the mvv from another embassy. Only after this an appointment can be made at the embassy in the neighboring country. We refer students who contact the IND to the educational institution.

If university students suffer a study delay due to the coronavirus, does this have consequences for their residence permits?

Did the student (excluding exchange student) make too little study progress at the end of the academic year? Then the educational institution must determine whether there is a valid reason for this. This is called an excusable reason. The corona crisis can be an excusable reason for insufficient study progress. This falls under: the inability to study. Can the student follow an alternative form of education? And does the student have the opportunity to earn enough credits? Then this is not seen as an inability to study. This is also stated in the guidelines of the National Commission on the Code of Conduct (in Dutch only, opens in new window).

Does the student have an excusable reason as a result of which he makes too little study progress? Then this has no consequences for the residence permit. The student does not have to be deregistered from the IND. Reporting the reason is also not necessary. The educational institution must, however, include the reason in its administration. Want to know more about study progress and consequences for the residence permit? Please read the 'Study progress monitoring' page.

If students do not meet the income requirement for the coming academic year, does this have consequences for their residence permits?

Normally, students must show that they have enough money for the coming academic year. Due to the corona crisis, the IND is handling this income requirement flexibly. This applies to the academic year 2020-2021. And only for students who already studied in the Netherlands in 2019-2020. A student's residence permit is not revoked for the reason that the student does not meet the income requirement due to the corona crisis. The student is still not allowed to apply benefits from public funds. Does the student receive money from the Temporary Bridging Scheme for Flexible Workers (TOFA)? This has no consequences for the residence permit.

Report to the IND
If a student does not meet the income requirement, the educational institution must still report this to the IND. Fill in on the notification form: 'student temporarily does not meet the income requirement due to corona'.

Last updated: 3 August 2020 - question 3

​I am sponsor with an asylum residence permit. Can I still apply for family reunification for my family?

Yes, you can apply for family reunification. The IND is continuing to process applications for family reunification as usual. The IND is also still deciding on applications.

I received a letter from the IND asking me to provide additional information (rectify an omission). Because of the measures against the coronavirus, I cannot send the information in time. What should I do?

The IND understands that the measures may make it more difficult to send documents on time. Please get in touch with your contact at the IND if you cannot respond to the letter in time.

Will DNA examinations continue?

Appointments for DNA tests at embassies abroad have still been postponed. At the IND desk in Utrecht, we do make appoinments with sponsors for a DNA test. However, we will only do this if DNA has already been taken from your family member abroad before the corona crisis. And if these data are already at the IND desk in Utrecht. We will call you to make an appointment to take your DNA. We plan these appointments from 1 September 2020.

Will identity interviews continue?

At some embassies interviews can be held through video conferencing. These embassies will start conducting identity interviews again.

Can I collect my mvv from the Dutch embassy?

That differs per embassy. Some embassies and consulates are open or will reopen (in part). These had been closed in recent months due to the coronavirus. More information is available on the website netherlandsandyou.nl (opens in new window).

The IND can still approve your application. At the same time the IND also gives the Ministry of Foreign Affairs permission to issue the mvv. You have 6 months to pick up your mvv.

My family member traveled to the Netherlands with an mvv. Where should my family member go to after arriving in the Netherlands?

You or your family member must call the MVV line for an appointment in Ter Apel. The telephone number is 088 - 0432129. This number is available from 9 am to 4 pm on working days.

Last updated: 25 June 2020

​Will the coronavirus measures affect my application for a residence document for after Brexit? 

No, the IND is still reviewing and deciding on applications received. Please, therefore submit your application within 4 weeks of receiving the invitation letter. You will be notified as soon as we take a decision by letter.

I received a letter which says that I have to make an appointment to have my biometrics taken. Can I make an appointment myself?

Yes, you can make an appointment online yourself to have your biometrics (passport photo, fingerprints and signature) taken. The IND needs your biometric details to prepare your residence document. Make an online appointment at an IND desk or expatcenter.

This summer the IND will open an additional location in the Amsterdam area where you can have your biometrics taken. This IND desk will be for UK nationals and their family members only. If you like, you can wait  until the Amsterdam desk opens before making an online appointment. We will let you know when the new location is open on this page.

How do I get my residence document?

​Starting this summer, UK nationals and their family members will have their residence documents delivered at home. The IPKD (Interdepartementale Post- en Koeriersdienst) will deliver your residence document on behalf of the IND. The IPKD is a Dutch governmental organisation specialising in courier services. We will update this web page as soon as we have further information.

Last updated: 10 July 2020 - question 6

​I have applied for asylum and I am waiting for a decision from the IND. Does it take longer before I get a decision due to the corona measures?

The IND normally has 6 months to decide on an application for asylum. This period is called the decision period. On 15 May 2020, it was decided that the IND will have 6 months longer to decide. This applies to you if you have applied for asylum and the decision period on 20 May 2020 was not over yet. Even if the IND has previously extended the decision period for your application.

The IND was already too late on 20 May to decide on my application. Will the IND also receive extra time with my application to decide?

No, the decision period will not be extended for applications in which we are already too late to decide. The IND will decide on these applications as soon as possible. The decision of the State Secretary does not change that.

Why does the IND get extra time to decide?

The IND has been given an extra 6 months, because all the asylum procedures were temporarily suspended due to the corona measures. The IND is currently restarting normal procedures as much as possible. The IND has, for example, started with interviews via video-conferencing since April. But we can still do less interviews than before the corona crisis. Many steps of this procedure take more time. This is because, for example, extra spaces and equipment are needed. That is why the State Secretary for Justice and Security has taken this decision (opens in new window, only available in Dutch).

Will I receive a letter about the extension of the decision period?

No, you will not receive a letter. The IND will inform you and your care providers on this website.

Where can asylum seekers apply for asylum?

Asylum seekers can apply for asylum at the application centre in Ter Apel as normal. Their procedure will start in Ter Apel or Budel. Asylum seekers will have a medical check in Ter Apel. There, they will be checked for coronavirus symptoms (temperature measurement). They also get information about the measures to prevent infection of the coronavirus.

What does the asylum procedure look like right now?

After the medical check, the AVIM (Aliens Police) does the identification and registration. They also let asylum seekers sign the asylum application. Asylum seekers can then use reception at COA. After a few days, the asylum seeker will have the first interview with the IND: the reporting interview. The interview will take place at an IND location or via video-conferencing. This happens through a video connection on a computer with an IND employee. The interpreter also joins the conversation via a video connection. At some IND locations they also have live interviews again. For safety, there are plastic screens in interview rooms. You can also find more information about video-conferencing in the letters on our asylum page under the heading 'more information'.

Are the residents at the reception centres being informed about the coronavirus?

Yes, the residents have received information about the coronavirus and the measures being taken.

Can asylum seekers who have exhausted all legal means still leave for their country of origin?

This is different in every case and for every country. The Repatriation and Departure Service (DT&V) reviews this case by case, every day.

Europe's borders are closed to most travellers from outside Europe. Can asylum seekers still apply for asylum at the border?

The border procedure remains the same. This means that people can still apply for asylum at the external border (such as Schiphol). The IND is handling these applications from asylum seekers as part of the border procedure. This means that the asylum seeker stays in border detention during the border procedure. Applications from families and unaccompanied minor asylum seekers are not processed under the border procedure. At the moment, there is a longer rest and preparation period for the border procedure. This gives a better picture of an asylum seeker's health when the investigation into the asylum application begins. The IND decides on border procedure applications within 4 weeks.

I want to apply for a permanent asylum residence permit. But I can't pick up my integration diploma. What now?

You can apply for a permanent asylum residence permit as usual. Do you not have an integration diploma because of the measures against the coronavirus? The result letter from DUO is temporarily sufficient proof that you have obtained an integration diploma. DUO is also sending diplomas via registred post. You can find more information on the DUO website.

Last updated: 19 June 2020 - exams for integration

​Can I apply for naturalisation or become Dutch through the option procedure?

You can apply for naturalisation or to become Dutch through the option procedure at your town hall (gemeente). Please visit your municipality's website to find out if you can make an appointment. Or contact your municipality.

Is the IND still processing my application for naturalisation?

Yes, the IND is continuing to process applications for naturalisation that come in via the municipality. This applies to new applications and applications that the IND has already received.

I want to apply for naturalisation. But I can't pick up my integration diploma. What now?

Do you not have an integration diploma because of the measures against the coronavirus? The result letter from DUO is temporarily sufficient proof that you have obtained an integration diploma. This shows what scores you have achieved on each part. You still have to send the diploma after you get it. DUO is also sending diplomas via registred post. You can find more information on the DUO website.

Will the exams for integration still take place?

Yes, since Monday 15 June 2020 civic integration exams are taking place again. Find out more about integration on inburgeren.nl (opens in new window).

Will the naturalisation ceremonies go ahead?

That varies from one municipality to another. The ceremonies can only continue if the government measures can be followed. In some municipalities there is no ceremony, but you can make the declaration of solidarity in writing.  It will be posted to your home address. This way you can make the declaration of solidarity in time. Later you will also receive the decision stating that you have become Dutch by post. Would you like to know how your municipality has arranged this? Please visit your municipality's website. Or contact your municipality.

I have to renounce my nationality, but this is taking longer due to the measures against the coronavirus. Do I need to notify the IND?

The IND understands that at the moment it may be difficult to start or complete the renunciation procedure. Embassies and consulates may be less available, for example. What if it is not possible to send proof of your request for renunciation, or an official declaration of renunciation of your nationality to the IND on time (within the required period)? Please notify the IND. We will then check whether the period can be extended. Call the telephone number of Team Afstand (the Renunciation Team). You can find the number at the top right of the letter you received from the IND about renouncing your nationality. If you no longer have the letter, call the IND's information line. For the phone number click here.