In most cases, to use official foreign documents in the Netherlands, you must first have them legalised and translated. This process is necessary to ensure the documents are authentic and issued by the right authorities, and will be recognised and accepted by the Dutch authorities. Translation and legalisation is usually done in the country where the document originates, which means the process and steps to be taken can vary significantly. The Government of the Netherlands has set up a useful web page to help you find out how you can translate and legalise the documents requested in your situation.

If your document is in a language other than Dutch, English, German, or French, it will have to be translated before use in the Netherlands. It is recommended to have this done by a sworn translator, as this is someone who has been officially appointed to translate documents accurately and truthfully. The translation can then be attached to the original document and will have the same legal status as the original document. If the legalisation process is applicable to your documents, make sure to have the translations legalised, too. 

If the document originates in a member state of the Apostille Convention, an apostille can be requested for your document. An apostille is a simplified form of legalisation, which is recognised by all states party to the Apostille Convention, including the Netherlands. The apostille is usually arranged by the relevant authority which issued the document, such as a court or a government office.

If your document was issued in a country which is not party to the Apostille Convention, the legalisation process may very well be a bit more complicated and time-consuming. It will typically involve getting the document legalised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country where it was issued, and afterwards once more by the Dutch consulate or embassy in that country.

Which foreign documents are requested from you, depends on the type of residence and work permit you are applying for. In most cases, you will need (at the very least) your own birth certificate and that of your spouse or partner and any children, if applicable. You might also be asked for a divorce certificate or certificate of unmarried status, if applicable to your personal situation. If you are applying as a highly educated professional, the authorities can request to receive your higher education degree(s). Keep in mind organisations may set different requirements for how recently your documents must have been issued and legalised.

Foreign documents are more easily accepted in the Netherlands if they originate in another member state of the European Union. Standardised rules simplify the process of legalisation, which means original documents, such as certificates related to your civil status, will often be accepted as authentic, without needing an apostille. However, in all cases, it is best to double-check here to find updated guidance.

That said, if the original document is not in Dutch, English, French, or German, you will still need to request the authorities of the member state where the document originates to issue a multilingual standard form, which can be presented together with your original, foreign document as a translation aid to the Dutch authorities. In exceptional situations, you may be asked to also provide a sworn translation of the document, if its contents are not easily understood. Multilingual standard forms do not need an apostille.

Important: Although the translation and legalisation of foreign documents can sometimes be taken care of online or by authorising another person to arrange it on your behalf, it can also be a time-consuming process which could significantly delay your relocation if not taken care of properly. Make sure to start early and to seek advice, if needed.