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EU nationals and their family members
All EU citizens and their immediate family members have the right to reside in the Netherlands, without a residence permit.
EU citizens or “Union citizens” are citizens of other EU members states that move to The Netherlands. They have the immediate right to reside in the Netherlands if they are employed, looking for employment, or are entrepreneurs, or if they have sufficient means to support themselves and cover their health insurance.
Third country nationals
For family members of EU citizens who are nationals from another country, outside the European Union – third country nationals – the rights of residence applicable to EU citizens are extended to them as well. Even unmarried partners are often extended the same rights, and treated as Union citizens.
Entry visa instead of MVV
These third country nationals do not need a MVV to enter the Netherlands, and can request an entry visa to the Netherlands from a Dutch Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence/origin. Applying for such a visa is short, and cost free, process. Needless to say, family members who are third country nationals do not need to pass the Dutch integration exam.
5 years residence
After a period of 5 years residence, EU citizens and their family members are eligible for a permanent residence permit. This is the highest residence status in the Netherlands and can only be lost after an absence of two consecutive years.