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Pathway

Caribbean Netherlands Permanent Residence

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba (Caribbean Netherlands) Residency
Pathway overview

At a glance

After five continuous years of qualifying lawful residence on Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, or Saba immediately before applying, you can seek permanent residence. Throughout that period, your permits must have been for a purpose officially classed as non-temporary. You also need sufficient, independent, lasting financial support.

Qualifying time
Five continuous years immediately before applying
Qualifying status
Fixed-term residence permits for a non-temporary purpose throughout that period
Financial support
Independent, sustainable, sufficient resources

Summary

Permanent residence in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, or Saba can be based on five qualifying years of residence; readmission is a separate ground. The official application requires continuous lawful residence on fixed-term permits for a non-temporary purpose, all prior permits, a valid passport, and evidence of independent, sustainable, sufficient financial resources.

Could this pathway work for you?

Eligibility

For this five-year route, the official form requires fixed-term residence permits for a non-temporary purpose throughout the period. Applicants provide copies of earlier permits and proof of independent, sustainable, sufficient financial resources. A passport entry sticker does not count as a residence permit. Readmission is a separate ground with different requirements.

Five years of qualifying permits
  1. 5 years immediately before applying Qualifying residence Hold fixed-term permits for a non-temporary purpose continuously.
  2. Before applying Prepare the evidence Gather prior permits and independent, sustainable, sufficient resources.
  3. Application stage Apply in person Submit to an IND Caribbean Netherlands office.

An entry sticker is not a residence permit; readmission is a separate ground.

What This Route Allows

Approval gives a residence permit with no fixed end date for the Caribbean Netherlands.

What This Route Is Not

Five years of visitor stays or a temporary-purpose permit should not be assumed to qualify. This permit does not itself grant Dutch citizenship or European Netherlands residence.

Next Steps

  1. Confirm that each permit in the five-year period was for a non-temporary purpose.
  2. Collect your prior permits and financial records.
  3. Apply in person at an IND Caribbean Netherlands office.

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Sources