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How to Bring Your Children to Europe: Family Reunification Process Explained

Updated: Apr 24

If you’re living in Europe and your children are still in the Philippines or another country, the emotional weight of being apart can be overwhelming. I’ve spoken with parents who carry both hope and heartbreak daily, trying to build a better future while missing bedtime hugs.


If this is your situation, know that there is a path, and I’m here to guide you through it with both compassion and clarity.


This is your step-by-step guide to the Family Reunification Visa, tailored for parents who want to bring their children to the Netherlands and be together again.


Who Can Apply for Family Reunification?


You can apply to bring your child to the Netherlands if:

  • You have a valid Dutch residence permit or Dutch nationality

  • Your child is under 18 years old

  • You can prove custody or legal guardianship

  • You plan to live together under the same roof

  • You meet income requirements as their sponsor


If you are co-parenting and the other parent is not joining, written and notarized consent may be required.


Step-by-Step Process for Family Reunification


1. Check the IND Conditions

Visit www.ind.nl and search for the latest family reunification requirements. They change depending on:

  • Your residence status (Dutch national, refugee, permanent resident, etc.)

  • Whether you’re applying for one or more children


2. Prepare Legal Documents (Philippines Side)

  • PSA Birth Certificate of child

  • Notarized consent of the other parent (if applicable)

  • Proof of custody or parental authority

  • Passport of the child (must be valid)

  • Legalization and translation (to Dutch, English, French, or German)


Note: These documents may need to be authenticated by the DFA and the Dutch embassy.


3. Prepare Sponsor Documents (Netherlands Side)

  • Valid Dutch ID or residence permit

  • Proof of income (employment contract, payslips, etc.)

  • Proof of address & housing suitability

  • Civil registration (BRP/Gemeente)


4. File the Application

  • Apply via the IND online portal or by post

  • Pay the application fee (usually around €69 for minors, but can vary)

  • Upload all documents, double-checked for completeness


5. Wait for Decision

  • IND has up to 90 days to decide

  • If additional documents are needed, the decision period may extend

  • Once approved, your child will receive an MVV (visa sticker)


6. Your Child Travels to the Netherlands

  • Make an appointment at the Dutch embassy for biometrics

  • Travel with the MVV

  • Register the child at your local municipality (BRP) upon arrival

  • Collect their residence permit at the IND desk



Common Challenges (and How We Help)

  • Trouble legalizing documents in the Philippines

  • Emotional stress of long-distance parenting

  • Custody complexities with the other parent

  • Navigating the system as a solo or newly arrived parent


That’s why EuroAccess doesn’t just help with documents; we support you emotionally too.


Services That May Help You

  • Family Reunification Visa Application Support

  • Checklist & Document Coaching

  • Communication Support with the Other Parent (when applicable)

  • Post-Reunification Emotional Coaching (for parents & children)


Reunite With Your Children, With Guidance That Understands Your Heart


  1. Book a Free Discovery Call to discuss your family’s situation

  2. Explore Family Reunification Packages

  3. Ask about Coaching Add-Ons for Post-Reunification Support


 
 
 

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