Family Reunification in the Netherlands – Legal Conditions and Procedure
Family reunification is a legal right in the Netherlands allowing residents and refugees to bring close family members to join them lawfully.
✅ Who can apply?
- Holders of asylum or subsidiary protection status.
- Residents with valid permits (work, study, family reunification).
- Refugees must apply within 3 months of receiving status.
👪 Who can be reunited?
- Spouse or registered partner.
- Minor children under 18.
- In rare cases: parents of unaccompanied minors.
📝 Required Documents:
- Proof of family relationship (marriage/birth certificate).
- Valid travel documents.
- Recent photos.
- Possibly DNA testing or interview.
💶 Income and housing conditions:
- Regular residents:
- Sufficient and stable income required.
- Suitable housing required.
- Asylum status:
- No income or housing requirement.
- Application must be made within 3 months.
🕒 Application Procedure:
- Apply via IND.nl.
- Decision timeframe: up to 6 months.
- Personal interviews may be conducted.
⛔ Common reasons for refusal:
- Lack of proof of relationship.
- Late submission.
- Threat to public order/safety.
- Fraudulent documents.
🧭 What to do after rejection?
- File legal objection within 4 weeks.
- Seek help from migration lawyers.
- Contact NGOs like VluchtelingenWerk Nederland.
