Embassy Appointment for Australian Student Visa

A permanent residence permit allows you to stay in the Netherlands without any time limit. Unlike temporary student or work permits, this one doesn’t expire every year — and you don’t need to keep reapplying for different residence types.

There are two types:

To qualify for permanent residence, you must meet all of the following:

• You’ve held a valid Dutch residence permit for at least 5 consecutive years
• You’ve lived in the Netherlands without gaps during those 5 years
• Your current residence permit is non-temporary (e.g., not a short-term study visa)
• You’ve always extended your permit on time and followed its conditions
• You meet income requirements (e.g., stable income, job contract, or sufficient funds)
• You are registered in the Personal Records Database (BRP) at your local town hall
• You have passed the civic integration exam at the A2 level or are officially exempt
• You did not provide false information during your current residence application.

If you were born in the Netherlands or arrived under age three and lived here continuously, IND will only reject your application if you're considered a danger to public safety.

Age Rule for Children

Only years after turning 8 count toward permanent residency.

Children can apply for permanent residence if they are at least 13 years old and have had a permit since age 8.

Required Documents for the Application

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
You can download the application form as well.

1. Check Eligibility

Make sure you meet the 5-year requirement and all other conditions above.

2. Collect All Documents

Get all your documents ready before applying. Ensure translations and legalization if needed.

3. Apply Online or by Post

You can apply online via My IND (requires DigiD with SMS and iDEAL banking)

Or download the written form and send it by post

You can apply up to 3 months before your current permit expires.

Already lived here for over 5 years? You can apply anytime.

4. Pay the Application Fee

The cost is €243 (subject to change). You need to pay online via iDEAL. Written applicants will receive payment instructions by letter.

5. Wait for IND Decision

The IND has 6 months to decide. You can follow your application status via My IND. If more time is needed (e.g., missing documents), IND will notify you.

If your current permit expires during the decision period, your work status will remain valid based on your current permit.

What Happens After Applying?

Positive Decision

You will be granted one of the following:

• Permanent residence permit (Type II)
• EU long-term residence permit (Type V)
• Or an extension of your current permit if you don’t qualify yet

You’ll receive a letter with the decision. Once approved, you’ll be invited to collect your new residence permit at the nearest IND office.

Negative Decision

You can object to the decision if you feel it was incorrect or incomplete.