Perfect for anyone that changes their style regularly
By Thomas Ansell
The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), which is responsible for Residence Permits for those with a non-EU nationality living in the Netherlands, has just updated its ‘biometrics’ regulations. From now on, people will need to give new a new photo, fingerprint scan, and signature each time they apply for an extension or new Permit.
The previous rule stated that adults only had to update their information every five years, and as you can imagine, this led to some people turning up for an appointment looking somewhat different from their five year old photos.
Having completely up to date biometric information is also useful as the Residence Permit cards can act as ID if required. The IWCN in Groningen is the official IND point for the Northern Netherlands, and can arrange appointments and biometrics for the following types of permits: Highly-skilled Migrant, Researchers, Orientation Year Permit; Intra-Corporate transferees, Start-ups, Self-employed; the EU Blue Card, and any family members of anyone holding one of the previously mentioned permits.
So, if your permit is coming up for renewal, make sure to get in touch with the IWCN to book an appointment to have your biometrics updated! The appointments are held at the IWCN in the city of Groningen on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and usually only take 10 to 15 minutes.