The IND has a maximum of 6 months to make a decision on your application. You will receive this decision by post. You can also view the status of your application online in 'Mijn IND'.

Sometimes the IND needs more time for your application. For example, because your application is not complete. The IND can also take longer for your application if the IND believes there is insufficient proof that your family members really are your family members.

If this is the case, you will get a letter from the IND telling you how much extra time they need. The IND may then ask you in the letter to send additional documents. Sometimes they also ask for a DNA test or an (online) interview with you and your family member.

After the IND has made a decision on your application, you will receive the decision in a letter. This decision is either positive or negative:

• Positive decision: your family member may come to the Netherlands.

• Negative decision: your family member may not come to the Netherlands.

If the IND has approved your application for family reunification, your family member will receive a

'machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf' (MVV) (permit for temporary stay)

If there is no Dutch embassy in your country of origin, your family member will have to go to a neighbouring country where there is a Dutch embassy. The IND will inform you about this.

Upon arrival in the Netherlands, your family member will receive the residence permit.

If the IND has not approved your application for family reunification, your family member will not receive a visa to come to the Netherlands. You can then appeal the IND's decision.