What does it mean for your company or for you as a British National in the Netherlands?

The agreement  

The agreement clarifies that the nationals can continue living, working or studying in the Netherlands under certain conditions. After the departure of the UK both parties are going to negotiate about the details of the future relationship. This will include the agreements concerning EU-based companies that trade in and with the UK. If there is no agreement reached with the negotiation about the future relationship there will be a ‘no deal’ Brexit after the transition period.    

The transition period  

During the transition period, 1 February 2020 to 31 December 2020, the current rights are going to be preserved for businesses and the public. If both the UK and the EU agree, this transition period may be extended by a maximum of two year until 31 December 2022. 

The British nationals who are living in the Netherlands will receive a letter from the IND* which contains information about their situation and the possible consequences. The IND calls on all British nationals to register as soon as possible in the Personal Records Database at their town hall. If the registration is completed, they will receive an invitation to apply for a residence document.   

DataChecker recommends nationals to investigate their situation and to apply (if necessary) for a new residence permit as soon as possible to prevent problems. 

Consequences of the resignation

It’s clear that the Brexit has consequences for the right of residence in the Netherlands. After the entrance of the resignation Nationals aren’t officially a citizen of the European Union anymore. It’s possible to continue living, working or studying in the Netherlands with a new residence permit which you can apply for online.   

The Brexit doesn’t have consequences if you possess a:   

• Dutch identity document  
• Dutch permanent residence permit   
• valid Dutch residence permit until it’s expired.    

*IND = Immigration and Naturalisation service