Humanitarian Residence Permit (Verblijfsvergunning humanitair)

The Humanitarian Residence Permit (Verblijfsvergunning humanitair) is a specialized permit for people in exceptional circumstances. Most applications are submitted while you are already in the Netherlands, though in rare cases, you may apply via a Dutch embassy abroad.

Step 1: Determine your category

Before applying, identify if your situation is Temporary (tijdelijk) or Non-temporary (niet-tijdelijk).

• Temporary grounds include being a victim of human trafficking, domestic violence, or requiring urgent medical treatment under Article 64 of the Aliens Act.
• Non-temporary grounds (often called "continued residence") include survivors of domestic violence who previously held a family permit, minor children under protection orders, or those claiming protection of "private and family life" under Article 8 ECHR.

Step 2: Gather your evidence

The IND (Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst) requires specific proof based on your situation:

• For Medical Grounds: You must have your treating physician complete the Appendix Medical Advice form for the Bureau of Medical Advice (Bureau Medische Advisering or BMA).
• For Domestic Violence: Collect police reports, statements from Veilig Thuis (Safe at Home), or medical/psychological records.
• For "No-Fault" Departure: You must provide written proof of at least 3 to 4 failed attempts to obtain travel documents from your home country’s embassy.
• Translations: Any document not in Dutch, English, French, or German must be translated by a sworn translator and may require an Apostille (a stamp certifying the document's authenticity).

Step 3: Submit the application

Download and complete the correct form from the IND website.

• Use Form 7526 for Temporary Humanitarian grounds.
• Use Form 7527 for Non-temporary/Continued Residence grounds.
• Mail the form and copies of your evidence to the address listed on the application.

Step 4: Provide biometrics

Once the IND receives your application, they will send you a confirmation letter. You must then schedule an appointment at an IND desk to have your fingerprints and photo taken for your residence card.

Step 5: The Interview (If required)

For complex cases, such as those involving Article 8 ECHR or "No-Fault" claims, the IND may invite you for an interview to discuss your personal ties to the Netherlands or your efforts to leave.

Fees are updated annually. The following rates are effective as of March 5, 2026.

Item	Cost
Standard Humanitarian Application	€254.00
Minor Children (Child Protection)	€82.00
Turkish Citizens (Association Agreement)	€82.00
Victims of Human Trafficking	€0.00

Total Estimate: €254.00 for most adult applicants. Does not include: Costs for sworn translations, document legalization/Apostilles, or travel to IND appointments.

The IND aims to process humanitarian applications within a specific timeframe, though individual complexity can cause delays.

• Statutory Decision Period: 90 days.
• Extensions: The IND may extend the deadline by up to 6 months if they need external advice (such as a medical assessment from the BMA) or if the case is highly complex.
• Current Average: Due to high assessment requirements, expect a total wait of 4 to 6 months.
• Permit Validity:
  • Temporary permits are usually valid for 1 year and can be renewed if the situation remains the same.
  • Non-temporary permits are usually valid for 5 years. After this period, you may be eligible to apply for Permanent Residence or Naturalization (Dutch citizenship).