The "Visa for Economically Inactive Long-Term EU Residents" offers an opportunity for non-EU nationals to reside in the Netherlands without requiring direct employment or study as the primary reason for their stay. This visa category is ideal for individuals who wish to settle in the Netherlands under the protection of long-term EU residency rights but are not economically active. In this blog post, we’ll explore the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits of this visa type.

Who is Eligible for This Visa?

To qualify for this visa, applicants must meet the following conditions:

1. Long-Term EU Resident Status:

   • You must hold long-term EU resident status from another EU country. This status is granted to non-EU nationals who have legally resided in an EU member state for at least five years and meet specific integration and residency requirements.

2. Economic Inactivity:

   • You are not required to be employed, studying, or self-employed to apply for this visa.

3. Sufficient Financial Means:

   • Demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to support yourself and your dependents without relying on public funds. This can include:

     • Savings

     • Pensions

     • Regular financial support from family or investments

4. Comprehensive Health Insurance:

   • Have valid health insurance coverage for yourself and your family members.

5. No Threat to Public Policy or Security:

   • You must not pose a risk to public order or security in the Netherlands.

Key Benefits of This Visa

1. Freedom of Movement:

   • Live, travel, and explore the Netherlands without employment obligations.

2. Residence Stability:

   • Establish a stable residence in the Netherlands as a long-term EU resident.

3. Access to Social Benefits:

   • While you may not qualify for certain income-based benefits, you’ll still have access to healthcare and other essential services.

4. Family Reunification:

   • Bring your spouse, registered partner, and dependent children under family reunification rights.

5. Pathway to Permanent Residency:

   • After five years of continuous residence in the Netherlands, you may apply for Dutch permanent residency or citizenship.

Application Process

1. Verify Eligibility:

   • Ensure you hold long-term EU resident status in another EU country and meet all financial and legal requirements.

2. Prepare the Required Documents:

   • Valid passport

   • Proof of long-term EU residency in another EU state

   • Evidence of sufficient financial means (e.g., bank statements, pension statements)

   • Health insurance certificate

   • Proof of accommodation in the Netherlands

3. Submit the Application:

   • Apply through the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

   • Pay the application fee (€207 as of 2024).

4. Attend an IND Appointment:

   • Provide biometric data (photo and fingerprints) and submit any additional documents if requested.

5. Wait for the Decision:

   • The IND processes applications within 90 days.

6. Register Locally:

   • Upon approval, register with your local municipality (BRP) and receive a BSN (citizen service number).

Challenges and Considerations

• Proof of Financial Independence:

  • Financial documentation must clearly show that you can sustain yourself without relying on Dutch social welfare systems.

• Long-Term Residency Validation:

  • The validity and recognition of your long-term EU resident status from another EU country must be confirmed by the IND.

• Non-Employment Conditions:

  • Ensure you remain compliant with the visa’s economically inactive conditions.