Family & kids in the Netherlands

Did you come to the Netherlands with your family or are you starting a family here? Here's what you need to know about living with a family and kids in the Netherlands. 

Getting married in the Netherlands

Did you know that the Netherlands was the first country in the world to extend civil marriage laws to same-sex couples? Getting married in the Netherlands is simple. However, some paperwork is involved. First, you need to fulfil the requirements. If you do, you will need to give notice of your intention to marry, at least two weeks befor the actual ceremony. A registered and qualified member of the municipality must perform the wedding ceremony. Read more about marriage in the Netherlands.

Partnership & cohabitation

If you and your partner don’t want to get married in the Netherlands but you do want to legalise your relationship in some way, you should know that there are other options available to you. In the Netherlands, you can have a registered partnership or a cohabitation agreement.

Divorce & separation

Is your marriage over? There are several ways to legally part ways in the Netherlands. Find out more about filing for a divorce or ending a partnership.

Pregnancy in the Netherlands

Are you having a baby? Congratulations! Our guide to pregnancy in the Netherlands explains what you can expect when it comes to Dutch prenatal care.

Giving birth in the Netherlands 

What are your options for giving birth in the Netherlands? What can you expect when your due date arrives? Our guide walks you through the most important points so you can feel better prepared for your baby's arrival. 

Postnatal care in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is held in high regard for its postnatal maternity care system, known as kraamzorg. Find out how to arrange your postnatal care, what you are legally entitled do, and more, in our guide to postnatal care in the Netherlands. 

Registering a birth & getting a birth certificate 

When and how do you register a child born in the Netherlands? How do you register a child born abroad? And how do you obtain a copy of your child’s birth certificate? Find out the answers to these questions on the registering a birth in the Netherlands page.

Adoption

The adoption of Dutch children is not very common, but around 700 children are adopted from abroad every year. Read more about adoption in the Netherlands.