Language / Au-pair in Netherlands
One documented route of this kind in Netherlands, with its conditions, documents, official government fees and process.
Working Holiday Permit
Nationals of 9 countries (Argentina, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, Uruguay) aged 18-30 may live and work in the Netherlands for up to 1 year under a cultural-exchange programme. Work must be incidental to the stay, not the primary purpose. Annual quotas apply per country.
- Processing time
- Not specified by IND; standard IND application timelines apply.
- Validity
- Maximum 1 year; not extendable.
- Language requirement
- None specified.
- Permanent residence
- Not applicable — permit is not a route to permanent residence.
- Citizenship
- Not applicable — permit is not a route to citizenship.
Requirements
- Nationality of Argentina, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, or Uruguay
- Age 18-30 at time of application
- Valid passport from eligible country
- Proof of return ticket or funds to purchase one
- Sufficient funds for duration of stay in the Netherlands
- Health insurance covering costs in the Netherlands
- No previous exchange residence permit in the Netherlands
- Annual quota for your nationality must not be exhausted
Required Documents
- Valid passport required
- Proof of return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one required
- Proof of sufficient funds for the stay required
- Health insurance policy covering the Netherlands required
- Completed IND application form required
Official fees
- IND application fee 85 EUR
Process Steps
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1
Check quota availability
Verify that the annual quota for your nationality has not been reached for the current year before applying.
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2
Submit application to IND
Apply online or in person through the IND. Pay the EUR 85 application fee.
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3
Await decision
IND processes the application; standard IND timelines apply.
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4
Collect residence permit
Once approved, collect your residence permit card. The permit is valid for a maximum of 1 year from the date of issue.
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5
Register with municipality
Register at your local municipality (gemeente) and obtain a BSN (citizen service number).