The International Organization for Migration (IOM) collaborates with the Dutch government to investigate family ties for family reunification across ten countries: Egypt, Ethiopia, Jordan, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
The Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) reviews applications of people who wish to live in the Netherlands. When documentation is incomplete, the IND may offer applicants a DNA test and/or video interview as alternative methods to verify family ties. Since 2021, IOM has supported the IND by facilitating these options. The IND retains full responsibility for evaluating applications and making decisions on family reunification. After the application is accepted by the IND, family members can contact one of the Dutch embassies or consulates for their visas.
Due to IOM’s global presence and flexibility, we have collected more than 10,000 DNA samples and organized over 1,600 video interviews since 2021. Our migrant-centered approach takes into account the (cultural) background of family members, individual vulnerabilities, and local travel advice. In this way, we contribute to the right to family reunification and facilitate regular migration pathways.
For more information about the family reunification process or case-specific questions, please contact the IND.
