The Verification Against EU Law (Toetsing Aan Het EU-recht) Visa is an essential residency permit for non-EU/EEA nationals who seek to live in the Netherlands based on their relationship with an EU citizen. This visa ensures that non-EU family members can legally reside and work in the Netherlands under EU free movement laws.
If you are a non-EU national looking to join your EU family member in the Netherlands, understanding the eligibility requirements is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you determine if you qualify.
What is the Verification Against EU Law Visa?
This visa is specifically designed for family members of EU/EEA nationals who wish to reside in the Netherlands under the right of free movement. It provides non-EU citizens with legal residence, work rights, and access to essential services.
Who is Eligible for the Verification Against EU Law Visa?
To qualify for this visa, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Relationship with an EU/EEA Citizen
You must be a family member of an EU/EEA citizen who is lawfully residing in the Netherlands.
Eligible relationships include:
Spouse or registered partner
Unmarried partner (if you can prove a long-term, durable relationship)
Children under 21 years old
Dependent parents or grandparents
2. Your EU Family Member Must Be Exercising Their Free Movement Rights
The EU citizen you are joining must be:
Employed in the Netherlands
Self-employed
A student with sufficient financial means
Financially self-sufficient with adequate resources
3. Proof of Dependency (If Applicable)
If you are applying as a dependent parent, grandparent, or child over 21, you must provide evidence of financial dependency on your EU relative.
4. Sufficient Financial Means
You and your EU family member must demonstrate that you have adequate income or resources to support yourselves without relying on Dutch social assistance.
5. Health Insurance Coverage
You must have comprehensive health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in the Netherlands.
Benefits of the Verification Against EU Law Visa
Right to Reside: You can live in the Netherlands with your EU family member without a work permit.
Employment Rights: You are allowed to work freely in the Netherlands without requiring additional permits.
Access to Public Services: You can benefit from healthcare, education, and social services.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: After residing in the Netherlands for five continuous years, you may apply for permanent residency or Dutch citizenship.
Application Process
Gather Required Documents:
Passport
Proof of relationship with the EU citizen
Proof of EU citizen’s employment or self-sufficiency
Health insurance certificate
Proof of financial means (if applicable)
Submit Your Application:
Applications are typically submitted to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) in the Netherlands.
There is no government fee for this visa application.
Await Processing:
The IND usually processes applications within 90 days.
Receive Your Residence Document:
If approved, you will receive a residence document valid for five years.
