Why the Netherlands Now Requires NRIs to Show Birth Certificates or NABC

In recent developments, the Netherlands has introduced a new requirement for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) seeking to live and work in the country the mandatory submission of a Birth Certificate or a Non-Availability of Birth Certificate (NABC). This rule has taken many by surprise, especially those in the process of applying for Dutch work or residence permits.

As global immigration systems become more stringent, countries like the Netherlands are placing greater emphasis on verified identity documents to reduce fraud, streamline records, and maintain transparent immigration procedures. For Indian citizens, especially those born before standardized birth registrations became common, this move has sparked confusion and urgency around obtaining these essential documents.

In this blog, we explore why the Netherlands has enforced this rule, what a birth certificate or NABC entails, how it affects Indian NRIs and what steps you can take to stay compliant and avoid delays in your migration process.

Why the Netherlands Has Enforced This Rule

The Netherlands, like many other European nations, has been gradually tightening its immigration and documentation policies to enhance identity verification, regulatory compliance, and data accuracy. One of the key reasons behind making birth certificates or NABCs mandatory for NRIs is to ensure that every applicant’s personal information particularly date of birth, place of birth, and parental details is officially validated and consistent across all government records.

Here Are Some Of The Primary Reasons Behind This Policy Update In Netherlands 

1. Strengthening Identity Verification

The Dutch immigration system now demands stricter proof of identity to curb discrepancies in documentation submitted by international applicants. A birth certificate serves as the most authentic proof of one’s origin and identity ensuring that the data on passports, work permits, and other legal documents aligns accurately.

2. Preventing Fraud and Inconsistent Records

In the past, authorities have come across cases of forged or incomplete documents, especially from countries where official civil registration was irregular or inconsistent. By making birth documentation compulsory, the Netherlands aims to reduce the risk of fraudulent applications and enhance transparency.

3. Standardizing Immigration Documentation

As immigration flows increase, there is a growing need for standardized documentation across all categories of visa applicants whether for work, study, or family reunification. This policy brings Indian nationals in line with international norms regarding personal data verification.

4. Alignment with EU-Wide Immigration Practices

Many EU countries are introducing similar policies as part of a broader effort to unify immigration procedures across the Schengen Area. The Netherlands’ rule is likely part of this wider shift, and may eventually become a requirement in other EU nations too.

5. Simplifying Bureaucratic Processes in the Long Term

Having verified birth documentation at the time of application helps reduce delays during background checks, address mismatches in family or marital records, and avoid issues in obtaining long-term residence, citizenship or even spousal/dependent visas later on.

In short, the enforcement of this rule is a proactive measure to build a cleaner, more reliable immigration process one that benefits both the Dutch authorities and the applicants by minimizing errors and ensuring all records are legally sound.

What Steps You Can Take to Stay Compliant and Avoid Delays in Your Migration Process 

With the Netherlands making it compulsory for Indian NRIs to submit a Birth Certificate or NABC, taking early and proactive steps can save you from unnecessary delays and complications during your migration journey. Here's what you should do:

1. Check if You Have a Valid Birth Certificate

Start by checking if you already have an official birth certificate issued by your local municipal authority in India. Ensure that:

It contains your full name, date of birth, place of birth, and parents' names.

It is in English or translated and notarized if issued in a regional language.

2. Apply for a Non-Availability of Birth Certificate (NABC), If Needed

If your birth was not registered or you don’t have a certificate, apply for an NABC from the Municipal Corporation or Panchayat Office where you were born. This document legally states that no birth record exists and can be used as an alternative in many immigration processes.

3. Get the Document Attested or Apostilled

Once you have your Birth Certificate or NABC:

It must be attested by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Apostille may be required as the Netherlands is part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

4. Keep Supporting Documents Ready

To support your birth-related documents, also gather:

Aadhar Card / Passport copy

School leaving certificate

Affidavit from parents or family (if applicable)

Any hospital-issued birth record (if available)

5. Consult Legal or Documentation Experts

If you're facing challenges or unsure of the process, consider using a professional documentation service or immigration consultant. They can:

Guide you through the correct process

Help obtain documents faster

Ensure legal compliance before your visa submission

6. Start the Process Early

Don’t wait until the visa interview or embassy appointment. Document procurement and attestation may take 2–6 weeks or more, depending on your location and complexity. Starting early ensures you don’t miss important immigration deadlines.

Taking these steps will not only keep you compliant with Dutch immigration rules but also give you peace of mind and a smoother transition to working or settling in the Netherlands.

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