The United Kingdom finally left the European Union on 31 January 2020. As such, the two jurisdictions are now in the process of implementing the Withdrawal Agreement, with the transition period ending at the close of 31 December 2020.
This means that in the short-term, nothing really changes for UK expats in the Netherlands – they will continue to enjoy the protections and freedoms of EU regulations, including, crucially, freedom of movement and the right to work and study in the country. Find out more about how Blacktower can help you during Brexit here.
However, following the end of the transition period – i.e. after 31 December 2020 – UK nationals and their family members who live in the Netherlands will require a residence document. This should be arranged through the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), which, in theory, will be sending letters to all UK nationals in the Netherlands detailing how they can apply online.
Register and apply
You will need to be registered on the Personal Records Database (BRP) at your local town hall or you may not receive the necessary IND residency correspondence. Importantly, the same process will apply to all UK nationals who move to the Netherlands during the transition period.
An application for residence documents can be made online and costs €58 for adults (€31 for anyone under 18). If you receive a temporary residence document, this will be valid for 5 years; a permanent residence permit is valid for 10 years. You will need a Dutch bank account to make your IND application. This is because the online payment system iDEAL requires this of all users.
What about your EU citizen document?
It is important to remember that your EU citizen document (EU duurzaam verblijf) will no longer be valid after Brexit. The exception is if you have a Dutch passport or another EU passport in addition to your UK passport – visit your local town hall to make sure you have your EU citizenship registered as your main nationality.
UK nationals with privileged status
The residence rights of UK nationals with privileged status will be unaffected by Brexit. This is because international conventions dictate that the employees of embassies, consulates and other international organisations who have been afforded diplomat status can remain in the Netherlands without additional documentation – the same is true of their families. As such, if you enjoy privileged status you will not need to submit an application for residence.
If you enjoy privileged status and have been invited to apply to the IND, you should contact your local town hall to ensure that your PROBAS notification has been registered – be sure to bring along your Ministry of Foreign Affairs identity card.
UK nationals who are temporarily outside of the Netherlands
If you are registered with the BRP but are temporarily living abroad, you should register to receive emails from the Dutch government. You will then receive a digital invitation letter to apply. Register online by clicking here.
Stay updated
All UK expats in the Netherlands should sign up to receive digital communications from the Dutch government regarding residence and other important issues. You can do this here.
Blacktower FM in the Netherlands
While you take care of your residency rights, Blacktower can take care of your wealth management plans, helping you to make sure that your retirement plans align with your goals, and that your investments are sufficiently diversified to enjoy the best chance of future prosperity.
For more information about us and our services, contact us today to discover the Blacktower difference. We are here to help with lots of knowledge about life in the Netherlands as well as our financial advice offering.
The above article was kindly provided by Kris Patni, International Financial Adviser, Netherlands from Blacktower Financial Management Group and originally posted at: https://www.blacktowerfm.com/news/762-securing-your-post-brexit-status-in-the-netherlands