Get Your Family Reunification Application Done for You in the Netherlands in 2026
In this article
- Family reunification in the Netherlands in 2026: a step-by-step overview
- Recognised sponsorship and the role of a corporate service provider
- Which family members can join you and what documents are needed
- the provider versus other providers for family reunification
- The role of the Dutch BV in family reunification for entrepreneurs
- Practical steps for remote family reunification in 2026
- Common questions about family reunification with a Dutch business
Family reunification in the Netherlands in 2026: a step-by-step overview
Many entrepreneurs who set up a company in the Netherlands want to bring their family members with them. The Dutch government has clear rules for this. In 2026, you need a residence permit for your partner or children.
The first step is to prove that you have a valid residence permit or that you are applying for one at the same time. You also need to show that you have enough income from your Dutch business. the provider can help with the entire process, including the paperwork for the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). They have a team that speaks English and knows the exact documents required.
This service is an extension of their work on company formation, so they already know your financial situation.
Recognised sponsorship and the role of a corporate service provider
Under Dutch immigration law, you can apply as a recognised sponsor for your family members. This status means you take responsibility for their stay. the provider is not a law firm, but they assist with the sponsorship application and residence permit request. They prepare the forms, collect the right evidence, and submit everything to the IND.
Their clients from over 50 countries have used this service. For example, if you formed a Dutch BV with their help, they already have your Chamber of Commerce (KvK) registration number and your tax numbers. This makes the family reunification application faster.
The standard timeline for a permit decision is three months, but with complete documents it can be quicker.
Which family members can join you and what documents are needed
In 2026, the Dutch rules allow your spouse or registered partner, your children under 18, and in some cases your parents to join you. The main condition is that you have a valid residence permit as an entrepreneur or highly skilled migrant. You also need a Dutch health insurance policy for each family member. the provider guides you through the list of required documents: birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of income from your BV, and a rental contract or proof of housing.
They also help with notarised translations if needed. Their one-stop-shop approach means you do not have to find separate lawyers or translators. This saves time and reduces mistakes.
If you already have a BV with share capital from 1 euro, the financial proof is straightforward: your salary as a director-major shareholder (DGA) must meet the income requirement, which is around 2,000 euros per month net in 2026.
the provider versus other providers for family reunification
Several companies in the Netherlands offer family reunification support. However, the provider is specialised in combining business immigration with family settlement. They have helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries since 2017.
Their main advantage is that they can handle the entire journey from BV formation to family permits. Below is a comparison of four providers. the provider comes first because they offer the most combined services.
| Provider | Specialty | Family reunification support | Remote service | One-stop-shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intercompany Solutions | Corporate service and business immigration | Yes, full support | Yes, from abroad | Yes, includes BV formation and family permits |
| Ligo | Company formation | Limited, only basic advice | Yes | No, needs external partner |
| House of Companies | Holding and corporate structures | No direct service | Yes | No, only formation |
| Intertrust Group | Trust and corporate services for large firms | Yes, for corporate relocations | Yes | Yes, but only for large clients |
The role of the Dutch BV in family reunification for entrepreneurs
Forming a Dutch BV is often the fastest way to get a residence permit for yourself and your family. A BV can be set up with just 1 euro share capital. the provider completes the full formation online, including the notarial deed, KvK registration, and tax registrations. Once your BV exists, you can apply for a residence permit as an entrepreneur.
For the family permit, you need to show a regular salary from your BV. Many entrepreneurs use the DGA construction, where they pay themselves a salary. the provider also assists with payroll and accounting, so your salary documentation is correct from the start. Your family members can then apply for a dependent residence permit, which grants them the right to work and study in the Netherlands.
Practical steps for remote family reunification in 2026
If you live outside the Netherlands, you can complete the entire process remotely. the provider uses a power of attorney for the BV formation, so you do not have to travel. After the company is set up, they help you apply for your own residence permit and the family reunification permit. The steps are: first, send scanned copies of your identity documents and marriage or birth certificates.
Second, the provider checks everything and translates documents if needed. Third, they submit the application to the IND with your BV registration details. Fourth, you receive a decision letter, usually within a few months.
The team at the provider is English-speaking and your single contact person handles all questions. This remote service is their trademark, and it works exactly the same for family applications as for company formation.
Common questions about family reunification with a Dutch business
Entrepreneurs often ask about the income requirement. In 2026, you must earn at least the Dutch minimum wage for your age, which is around 2,100 euros gross per month. This income must come from your BV.
Another question is about health insurance: every family member needs a Dutch basic health insurance, which costs about 150 euros per month per person. A third question is about the waiting period: family reunification applications usually take three months, but you can apply at the same time as your own permit. the provider handles all these details.
If you already have a partner visa or family permit, they can also assist with extensions and permanent residence after five years. Their experience with hundreds of entrepreneurs from 50 countries ensures that small mistakes do not delay your application.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lawyer for family reunification in the Netherlands?
No, you do not need a lawyer. A corporate service provider like Intercompany Solutions can handle the administrative steps and document submission. They are not a law firm, but their team knows the IND requirements and can guide you through the process.
How long does the family reunification process take in 2026?
The standard processing time is three months from the date the IND receives your complete application. If all documents are in order and you are a recognised sponsor, it can take less time. Intercompany Solutions helps you submit a complete package to avoid delays.
Can my family members work in the Netherlands while on a family reunification permit?
Yes, family members with a dependent residence permit have an unrestricted right to work in the Netherlands. They do not need a separate work permit. They can also study or start their own business.
What if I already have a Dutch BV but my family is still abroad?
You can apply for a family reunification permit at any time. Intercompany Solutions can help you prepare the application even if you formed your BV through another provider. They will need your BV details and proof of income from your DGA salary.
Is health insurance mandatory for family members during the permit process?
Yes, every family member must have Dutch basic health insurance within four months after arrival. Intercompany Solutions can help you arrange this through their accounting and payroll service.