Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification)
For minor children joining a parent who is a Dutch national or holds a Dutch residence permit.
The Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) is a Dutch family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€81 (2025) for a child) and processing time (~90 days (legal maximum)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) is for
For minor children joining a parent who is a Dutch national or holds a Dutch residence permit.
Counts toward permanent residence; children can naturalise with or after the parent.
Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) - eligibility criteria
- Child is a minor and the biological, adopted or foster child of the sponsor
- Belonged to the parent's family before they came to NL
- Parent has lawful residence or is a Dutch national
- Parental authority and consent of any other parent
- Sponsor meets the income requirement
Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) (Netherlands) is ~€81 (2025) for a child, with an indicative processing time of ~90 days (legal maximum). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IND (Netherlands).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Filed by the parent/sponsor with the IND (MVV abroad where required) |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years (linked to the parent's status) |
| Work rights | Work allowed (subject to age and child-labour rules) |
| Study rights | Full school/study access |
| Government fee | ~€81 (2025) for a child |
| Processing time | ~90 days (legal maximum) |
| Route to PR | Counts toward permanent residence; children can naturalise with or after the parent. |
Pathway & next steps
Counts toward permanent residence; children can naturalise with or after the parent.
Many applicants also compare Partner/Spouse · Residence permit for stay with partner or spouse (family reunification), EU family · Residence document for family members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, MVV · Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Dutch route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) pitfalls we fix
Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) cost?
The Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) government fee is ~€81 (2025) for a child. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IND (Netherlands) before applying.
How long does the Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~90 days (legal maximum). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification) lead to permanent residence?
Counts toward permanent residence; children can naturalise with or after the parent.
Can I work on the Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification)?
Work rights: Work allowed (subject to age and child-labour rules).
Who can apply for the Residence permit for stay with a parent (child family reunification)?
For minor children joining a parent who is a Dutch national or holds a Dutch residence permit.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Netherlands government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IND (Netherlands) - official Netherlands immigration authority