Applying abroad

If you wish to apply for a travel document abroad, you can visit the nearest Dutch embassy or consulate. Needless to say, the new passport photo requirements (Photo Matrix 2007 Model) also apply to travel documents issued by Dutch embassies and consulates abroad (see http://www.minbuza.nl/).

If you are resident abroad but visiting the Netherlands and your current travel document is due to expire soon, you can apply for a new one in the Netherlands, from the 'Landelijke Taken' department of the Municipality of The Hague (district office: Stadsdeelkantoor Centrum). If you are in the Netherlands it is worthwhile to have passport photos taken that comply with the Photo Matrix (2007 Model), as it can be more difficult to do this abroad.

If you plan to move abroad it is also advisable to apply to your current municipal authority for a travel document, or have passport photos taken in the Netherlands that comply with the Photo Matrix (2007 Model), before your leave.

To obtain a Dutch travel document, you must apply to a Dutch embassy or consulate in person. When applying for a travel document you will be required to prove your identity and nationality. To do this you need to bring the following items:

Anyone who has Dutch nationality can apply for a travel document, irrespective of age. Children under 18 wishing to apply for a passport will require the written permission of both parents (or the legal guardian). When applying, you also need to provide valid proof of identity of the parent or guardian granting written permission. The same applies to children under 12 wishing to apply for an identity card. From the age of 12, no permission is required to apply for a Dutch identity card. Two colour passport photos that are a good likeness are also required for any child to be added to the document.

 

A Dutch identity card is cheaper than a passport, but for many countries you need a passport. More information on the travel documents required can be found at http://www.minbuza.nl/, where you can download a passport application form which you can complete in advance and take to the embassy or consulate.

 

Travel documents are personalized at a central facility in the Netherlands, so you will not receive your new travel document immediately. The minimum period between application and issue is about one week. The embassy or consulate can tell you how long it will take. There is a fast-track procedure available: the waiting time is shorter, but it costs more.