Can I apply for PR if I am unemployed?

It is difficult. You must show "sustainable" income. If you are on Withering (unemployment), it may count if you have enough months remaining, but a permanent contract is highly recommended.

What happens to my 30% ruling?

Obtaining Permanent Residence does not automatically cancel your 30% ruling, provided you still meet the salary and distance criteria. However, naturalizing as a Dutch citizen may impact it.

Can I combine years on a Search Year (Zoekjaar) visa?

Yes, years spent on a Search Year visa count fully toward the 5-year requirement for National PR

Netherlands Work Visa to Permanent Residence Expenditure 2026

Are you a highly skilled migrant, an EU Blue Card bearer, or a foreign professional living in the Netherlands? After five years of sport through temporary work permits, the dream of “Calderon tied” (Permanent Residence) is likely within your reach.

The Total Costco Much Will You Spend in 2026?

The “cost” of permanent residence isn’t just the fee you pay to the IND. It’s a multi-stage investment in your future. Here is the financial reality for 2026.

IND Application Fees (Leges)

The IND updates its Leger (government fees) yearly. As of January 1, 2026, the costs are:

Adults (Standard Application): €254
Minor Children (Under 18): €85EU Long-Term Resident Status: €254

Civic Integration Exam (Lingering) Costs

You cannot apply for PR without your Inburgeringsdiploma. Unless you are exempt (e.g., you have a Dutch university degree), you must pay DUO for these exams:

Individual Exam Modules: €50 per module (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening, and KNMTotal for all 5 Modules: €250.
ONA (Labour Market Orientation): Roughly €50 (unless you are exempt due to recent work history).

Hidden Body Disbursal

Written material Legation’s/Pastille: If the IND definite quantity a new birth or marriage document from your home country, expect to pay €50–€150 per written material for worldwide business enterprise and authorities stamps.
Sworn Translations: Written document not in Dutch, English, French,or German must be translated. Reimbursement typically range from €60–€100 per page.
New Passport: Ensure your passport is valid. A renewal usually costs between €70–€150 depending on your nationality.

Contextual Keyword Listing & LSI Terms

To help you sail authoritative portals, keep these terms in mind:

Onbepaalde tijd: National Permanent Abode.
EU-languid ringette: EU Long-term Nonmigratory (best for those wanting to work in other EU countries).
Middlemen van tannest: Proof of income. For 2026, the gross time unit income requirement is €1,697.82 (excluding holiday pay).BRP (Preregistration Personae): The municipal database that proves your 5-year residency.
SV-loon: The salary figure on your payslip used by the IND to verify your income.

The “5-Year Rule” and 2026 Income Thresholds

Eligibility for permanent residence hinges on two pillars: Time and Money.

The 5-Year Requirement

You must have lived in the Netherlands for 5 consecutive years with a valid residence permit.

2026 Income Requirements

The IND requires you to have “sufficient and sustainable” income. In 2026, the standard threshold is:

Single/Couple: €1,697.82 gross per month (without holiday allowance
Sustainability: Your contract must be valid for at least 12 months at the time of application. An Calderon tied bid (permanent bidding) is the “gold standard” for approval.

The Speech DebateA2 or B1 in 2026?

There has been epochal confusion item the Wet fingering 2021.

The Current Standard: As of early 2026, the A2 Level object the standard for most enduring residence applicants.
The Shift: While the government has signaled a move toward B1, transformation rules in the main protect those who have already started their integration path. However, checking your individualized “Minn Lingering” portal on the DUO computer is the only way to be 100% sure of your required level.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Gather Documents: Permission, current abode permit, and Inburgeringsdiploma.
Verify Income: Download your “Verzekeringsbericht” from the UWV website to turn out your salary history.
Submit Online: Use your Dig-id to apply via the IND website. This is faster than paper applications.
Pay the Fee: Use ideal to pay the €254 immediately.
Biometrics: Schedule an appointment at an IND desk (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, etc.) for fingerprints.
The Wait: The IND has up to 6 months to decide, though most work-related applications are processed in 8–12 weeks.

FAQs

Can I apply for PR if I am unemployed?

It is difficult. You must show “sustainable” income. If you are on Withering (unemployment), it may count if you have enough months remaining, but a permanent contract is highly recommended.
What happens to my 30% ruling?

Obtaining Permanent Residence does not automatically cancel your 30% ruling, provided you still meet the salary and distance criteria. However, naturalizing as a Dutch citizen may impact it.
Can I combine years on a Search Year (Zoekjaar) visa?

Yes, years spent on a Search Year visa count fully toward the 5-year requirement for National PR

Final Thoughts

Transitioning to permanent residence is the ultimate “peace of mind” for expats. While the €254 fee is modest, the preparation—specifically the integration exams and document gathering—requires months of lead time. Start your integration exams in your 4th year to ensure you are ready the moment your 5-year clock hits the mark.

⚖️ Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws in the Netherlands (IND) are subject to change. Always consult the official IND.nl website or a qualified immigration lawyer before making financial decisions.