Scientific Researcher Residence Permit

For scientific researchers (Directive 2016/801) moving to the Netherlands.

πŸ“‹ 23 steps totalβœ… 7 free pre-arrival stepsπŸ”’ 16 post-arrival steps

The full Dutch Scientific Researcher Residence Permit process

  1. Obtain or Renew Passport

    Make sure your national passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry into the Netherlands.

  2. Apply for Researcher residence permit

    Research institution applies for residence permit under EU Directive 2016/801.

    ⏱ ~60 daysπŸ’Ά €254πŸ”— Official link
  3. Collect MVV entry visa

    Pick up MVV sticker at Dutch embassy/consulate after approval.

    πŸ”— Official link
  4. Travel to the Netherlands

    Travel to NL with MVV/permit documents and enter within visa validity.

  5. Submit biometrics at IND

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
    Post-arrival steps are part of the full flow. Start free to track your pre-arrival progress, then unlock the 16 post-arrival steps when you land.
  6. Collect residence permit card

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  7. Search for Housing

    Start looking for rental properties online or via agents; gather required documents such as proof of income.

    πŸ”— Official link
  8. Secure housing (residential address)

    Find and secure a place to live in the Netherlands.

    πŸ”— Official link
  9. Register at municipality (BRP & BSN)

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  10. Set Up Energy & Water Contracts

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

  11. Set Up Internet Contract

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

  12. Open a bank account

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  13. Apply for DigiD

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  14. Activate MijnOverheid account

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  15. Obtain health insurance

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  16. Register with a GP (doctor)

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  17. Set up a Dutch SIM card

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  18. Arrange home & liability insurance

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  19. Apply for 30% tax ruling

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  20. Exchange foreign driver’s license

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  21. Undergo TB test (if required)

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  22. File Dutch taxes (M-form)

    Detailed instructions, official links and progress tracking for this step are included in the full flow.

    πŸ”— Official link
  23. Apply for family member residence permit

    Apply for a residence permit for your partner or child if they will accompany you. You must meet income requirements and apply as their sponsor via IND.

    πŸ’Ά €254πŸ”— Official link

Track this journey instead of reading about it

Turn this guide into a personal checklist: tick off steps, keep your documents together, and always know what comes next.

Other routes to the Netherlands