Netherlands•Europe6 months – 1.5 years
Free
3 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
No dependents
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required

The Netherlands Asylum Residence Permit is a humanitarian visa granted to people who face persecution, serious harm, or indiscriminate violence in their home country. Issued free of charge under the Dutch Aliens Act, it gives holders the right to live and work in the Netherlands without a separate work permit.
From 12 June 2026, permits are valid for 3 years (previously 5) and renewable under new EU rules. Spouses can work without restriction. Applicants must register in person at Ter Apel or Schiphol; the IND targets a decision within 6 months, though backlogs can extend this considerably.
This visa is ideal for individuals physically present in the Netherlands who face credible persecution, torture, or armed conflict in their home country and need formal legal protection.

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| Initial grant | 3 years |
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
NetherlandsYou have a well-founded fear of persecution in your country of origin due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
You face a real risk of serious harm, such as the death penalty, torture, or inhuman/degrading treatment.
You are at risk of indiscriminate violence due to an armed conflict in your country of origin.
You must be physically present in the Netherlands to apply (you cannot apply from abroad).
You must undergo identification and registration at the application center in Ter Apel.
You must not have received protection in another EU member state.
Valid identity documents (if available).
Documents supporting your asylum claim (e.g., evidence of persecution).
Travel documents or evidence of your journey.
Completed asylum application forms provided by the IND.
Medical declarations (if applicable).

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