FAQ
Company
1. I want to invest in a Dutch company as a shareholder. Can I obtain a residence permit based on that purpose? No, you cannot obtain a residence permit only based on investment. You must have a function in that company. If your shares are more than 25 % you must apply for a residence permit based on self-employment. If you have less than 25 % shares, you must apply a residence permit based on work.
2. What is the minimum investment requirement for setting up a company? There is no minimum investment requirement for setting up a company. Only registered capital of € 18,000 is needed for the incorporation. This amount can be withdraw after incorporation and may be used for business purposes.
3. Before setting up a company. Can I come to the Netherlands to do business? Yes, in this kind of situations you have to apply for a business visa.
Family reunion
1. Does family reunion implies partnership because my girlfriend want to apply for me a residence permit based on family reunion? Yes, provided that the requirements are met. It is not necessary to get married first. However you have to prove that you already have a long lasting relationship for at least several months till one year. As evidence, you may provide pictures, letters, telephone specifications etc.
2. I have a residence permit based on family reunion. How long residence permit will I get? The first residence permit will be valid for 1 year. You have to extend your residence permit in time (normally at least 2 months before expiring date). The second residence permit will be granted for 5 years, provided that your passport is still valid. Otherwise the new residence permit will be valid till one month before expiring date of your passport.
3. Is sufficient accommodation one of the requirements if I want to apply my family? No, you only must have a Dutch registered address. Having a house is no condition.
4. I have a residence permit for two years based on the stay with my girlfriend. Unfortunately the relationship has been broken. Can I stay in The Netherlands? If your residence purpose has changed within 3 years, the residence permit is not valid anymore. If you have found another residence purpose (i.e. new girlfriend, job etc.) you have to apply for changing your residence purpose. Otherwise you have to leave the country. In case the residence permit has last at least for 3 years, you may apply for an independent residence permit. In that case you may stay in The Netherlands.
Study
1. I have not finished my study yet but I have found a job. May I stay in The Netherlands? If you met the requirements for a residence permit based on work (sometimes a work permit is required), you have to apply for changing your residence purpose.
2. I have obtained a residence permit based on study. However, I want to leave with my girlfriend who has a Dutch passport. Do I need to apply for a new residence permit based on family reunion? You better do that because a residence permit based on study is a temporary residence permit and will end if your study is finished.
3. I want to work during my study to earn more money. Is that allowed? Yes. But only for maximum 10 weeks per week, while the employer must have obtained for you a work permit first.
