Working in the Netherlands in case of divorce or break up

An addition to the Aliens Decree (Vreemdelingenbesluit) clarifies that in case foreigners have secured their residence status based on their relationship and have not yet stayed in the Netherlands for 5 years, strict requirements should be met to be entitled to an independent residence status and work permit in case of a divorce.

The Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) will examine whether the individual is eligible for a work permit and will also perform a labour market test (prioriteitgenietend aanbod). In practice this means that it will be very hard to meet the requirements and obtain an independent residence status for this particular status.