Congratulations! If you are looking for the costs of permanent residence, you have probably reached or are close to the important 5-year mark in the Netherlands. Changing from a temporary work permit, like the Highly Skilled Migrant visa, to permanent status gives you great security. It means no more need for employer sponsorship and you can call the Netherlands your permanent home in the EU.
But in 2026, there are some changes in rules and fees because of inflation and updates. This guide explains every cost you need to plan for to get permanent residence in the Netherlands. We use simple words and clear steps.
Primary Fee Structure (IND Fees)
The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) changes fees every year. In 2026, fees increased a little because of inflation. These are the main costs you pay when you send your application.
- Permanent Residence Permit (Adult) The standard fee for non-EU/EEA adults is €254. This is the cost for most people moving from a temporary permit after 5 years of living in the Netherlands.
- Permanent Residence Permit (Minor < 18) For children under 18, the fee is much lower at €85. This applies if your child has lived in the Netherlands with you.
- Renewal of Permanent Document Your right to stay is permanent, but the plastic card expires every 5 years. You must replace it. The cost for renewal is €85 for adults.
- EU Long-Term Resident (Type V) This permit costs €254, the same as the national one. Many people choose this because it makes it easier to move to other EU countries later if you want. The IND often checks both options and gives you the best one you qualify for.
These fees are paid online when you apply. You pay the full amount at the start. If your application is not approved, the fee is usually not returned.
2026 Income & Eligibility Thresholds
To get permanent residence, you must show you can support yourself and do not need help from the government. The IND looks at your income from work.
- Income Requirement For a single person, you need to earn at least €1,697.82 per month (gross, including holiday pay). This is the minimum in 2026. Your salary must meet this level.
- Sustainable Income Your job contract should last at least 12 months when you apply. If your contract is shorter or not fixed, the IND looks at your average income over the last 3 years. You need to prove your income is stable and enough for a good life.
- The 5-Year Residency Rule You must have lived in the Netherlands for 5 full years with a non-temporary permit. This includes permits like Highly Skilled Migrant or EU Blue Card. The time must be continuous, without big breaks.
- The “Non-Temporary” Catch Not all permits count the same. For example, time on a study permit only counts for half (50%). Time on a Search Year (Zoekjaar) permit usually does not count at all toward the 5 years. Make sure your past permits qualify. If you had a gap in residence (like staying outside the Netherlands for too long), it can reset or pause your 5-year clock.
You also need to be registered in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP) at your local town hall. This is the population register.
Mandatory Integration Costs (The “Inburgering” Requirement)
Before you apply for permanent residence, you must prove you have integrated into Dutch society. This is a big part many people forget, and it can cost a lot of time and money.
- Civic Integration Exam You need to pass the civic integration exam (inburgeringsexamen). The total cost for the full set of exams is around €350. This includes tests for Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking, and Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM).
- Language Level Right now, the requirement is A2 level. This is basic Dutch. There are talks to change it to B1 in the future, but for 2026, A2 is still okay for permanent residence. If you have not started learning, it is smart to aim for B1 to be safe for later. Many expats take courses to prepare. Courses can cost extra, from a few hundred to over a thousand euros, depending on how much help you need. Some people study alone with books or online apps.
- Participation Statement (PVT) If you came after 2022, you probably did the Participation Statement through your municipality. This is often free, but some places charge a small fee for workshops.
If you pass the exams or get an exemption (for example, if you studied in the Netherlands or have certain conditions), you get a diploma. This is needed for your permanent residence application.
Administrative & Hidden Costs
There are other small costs that add up. Do not forget them in your budget.
- Certified Translations If your documents like birth certificate or marriage certificate are not in Dutch, English, French, or German, you need a sworn translator. This costs €50 to €100 per page.
- Legalization/Apostille Foreign documents may need an apostille or legalization. This depends on your home country. It usually costs €20 to €60 per document to make them valid for use in the Netherlands.
- Biometrics Collection When you apply, you give fingerprints, photo, and signature at an IND desk. This is included in the €254 fee, but you may need to travel to places like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Den Bosch. Plan for travel costs and time off work.
Other possible costs include getting police reports if needed, or copies of documents. The whole process can take up to 6 months, so keep your current permit valid during this time.
2026 Strategy Tip: PR vs. Citizenship
Think carefully before you apply. Choose Permanent Residence (€254) if you want to keep your original nationality. The Netherlands often asks you to give up your old citizenship to become Dutch.
Choose Citizenship (naturalization, costs around €1,139) if you want a Dutch passport, voting rights in national elections, and full EU citizen benefits. Permanent residence is cheaper and easier if you do not want to lose your first nationality.
Disclaimer: This guide helps you plan your budget for permanent residence in 2026. The total cost can be around €500 to €1,000 or more, depending on translations, courses, and other things. Always check the official IND website for the latest information, because rules can change. This article is for information only. Talk to the IND or a specialist for your personal situation.