Who is Eligible for This Visa?

To qualify for this visa, applicants must meet the following conditions:

1. Long-Term EU Resident Status:

   • You must hold long-term EU resident status from another EU country. This status is granted to non-EU nationals who have legally resided in an EU member state for at least five years and meet specific integration and residency requirements.

2. Economic Inactivity:

   • You are not required to be employed, studying, or self-employed to apply for this visa.

3. Sufficient Financial Means:

   • Demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to support yourself and your dependents without relying on public funds. This can include:

     • Savings

     • Pensions

     • Regular financial support from family or investments

4. Comprehensive Health Insurance:

   • Have valid health insurance coverage for yourself and your family members.

5. No Threat to Public Policy or Security:

   • You must not pose a risk to public order or security in the Netherlands.

Key Benefits of This Visa

1. Freedom of Movement:

   • Live, travel, and explore the Netherlands without employment obligations.

2. Residence Stability:

   • Establish a stable residence in the Netherlands as a long-term EU resident.

3. Access to Social Benefits:

   • While you may not qualify for certain income-based benefits, you’ll still have access to healthcare and other essential services.

4. Family Reunification:

   • Bring your spouse, registered partner, and dependent children under family reunification rights.

5. Pathway to Permanent Residency:

   • After five years of continuous residence in the Netherlands, you may apply for Dutch permanent residency or citizenship.

Application Process

1. Verify Eligibility:

   • Ensure you hold long-term EU resident status in another EU country and meet all financial and legal requirements.

2. Prepare the Required Documents:

   • Valid passport

   • Proof of long-term EU residency in another EU state

   • Evidence of sufficient financial means (e.g., bank statements, pension statements)

   • Health insurance certificate

   • Proof of accommodation in the Netherlands

3. Submit the Application:

   • Apply through the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

   • Pay the application fee (€207 as of 2024).

4. Attend an IND Appointment:

   • Provide biometric data (photo and fingerprints) and submit any additional documents if requested.

5. Wait for the Decision:

   • The IND processes applications within 90 days.

6. Register Locally:

   • Upon approval, register with your local municipality (BRP) and receive a BSN (citizen service number).

Challenges and Considerations

• Proof of Financial Independence:

  • Financial documentation must clearly show that you can sustain yourself without relying on Dutch social welfare systems.

• Long-Term Residency Validation:

  • The validity and recognition of your long-term EU resident status from another EU country must be confirmed by the IND.

• Non-Employment Conditions:

  • Ensure you remain compliant with the visa’s economically inactive conditions.