A new guide from DutchReview sets out the visa and residence permit options for people planning to move to the Netherlands in 2026. It covers the main routes, including work, study, family reunification and self-employment, and notes that the right permit depends on your nationality and purpose of stay. The article also points to practical steps such as checking requirements with the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) and applying before arrival where needed. While the guide is a useful overview, rules and fees can change, so it is worth confirming details on the official IND website before making plans.
What this means if you are learning Dutch or new in the Netherlands: if you are still in the planning stage, use this guide as a starting point to identify which permit category might apply to you. If you are already here, it is a reminder that permit conditions can affect your stay, so keep your documents up to date. Learning Dutch can help at every stage, from reading official letters to speaking with municipal staff, and many integration requirements are linked to your permit type. Always check official sources for the latest information.