Moving Regulations - Netherlands

Australians do not need authorisation for temporary stay (an MVV) in order to stay in the Netherlands for more than 3 months. However, they must still apply for a residence permit. When you apply for a temporary residence permit, the IND will check whether you meet all of the conditions. Moreover, you will also be examined for tuberculosis. As a rule, the residence permit is issued for a maximum of 1 year. Once you have resided in the Netherlands on the basis of a temporary residence permit for at least 5 consecutive years, you can apply for the granting of a permanent residence permit or to have your existing residence permit changed into a permanent residence permit.

Conditions for the granting of a permanent residence permit:
• you have held a temporary residence permit for a minimum of 5 consecutive years;
• you have a residence permit for a non-temporary objective, such as family reunification or employment;
• you do not constitute a risk to the public order;           
• you have sufficient means of support.

If these conditions have been met, you can apply to the IND for a permanent residence permit.

The following documents will be required:
• valid passport;
• current residence permit;
• proof of health insurance;
• documentary evidence showing that you have been resident in the Netherlands for 5 consecutive years on the basis of a valid residence permit immediately prior to your application.    
• documentary proof of income.  

You have to renew your residence document every 5 years.