Child Benefit upon Moving Abroad
If you or your child lives outside the Netherlands, this may affect your entitlement to child benefit. Whether you receive this benefit depends on the country where you reside and whether the Netherlands has concluded an agreement with that country.
Overview of Situations
| Circumstance | Entitlement to Child Benefit? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Child resides in EU/EEA | Usually yes | European coordination rules |
| Child in treaty country | Usually yes | Dependent on specific agreements |
| Child elsewhere in the world | Usually no | No possibility of export |
| You work in NL, child abroad | Usually yes | Principle of country of employment |
Regulations within Europe
Child Benefit within the EU
For EU countries, specific coordination rules apply:
- Child benefit is usually paid by the country where you work
- In case of differences, the country of residence may provide a supplement
- Overlap of benefits is automatically coordinated
Countries with a Treaty
The Netherlands has agreements with some countries regarding child benefit:
- Morocco, Turkey, Tunisia (with restrictions)
- Cape Verde, Suriname
- Check the current list of treaties via the SVB
Amount of the Benefit upon Export
Upon export of child benefit to some countries, the amount may be adjusted:
- Country of residence principle: adjustment to cost of living
- In certain countries: 40%, 60% or 80% of the Dutch rate
- Within EU/EEA: full amount
Notification to the SVB
If you or your child moves abroad, you must report this:
- Report the move to the SVB immediately
- The SVB determines whether you retain entitlement
- Failure to report may lead to repayment of received amounts
Do I receive child benefit if my child studies abroad?
Usually yes, especially within the EU. The condition is that your child is registered with you or is financially dependent on you.
I live in the Netherlands, but my child in Morocco. Am I entitled to child benefit?
Possibly, but often to a limited extent due to the country of residence principle. The SVB determines the exact amount.
Can I receive child benefit from both the Netherlands and another country at the same time?
No, double benefits are not possible. Through European or treaty rules, it is determined which country pays or supplements.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Benefit
How do I report a move to the SVB?
Report your move or that of your child immediately via the SVB website (www.svb.nl) using the online form. You can also contact them by phone at 0800-0543 or send a written notification. The SVB will then assess whether your entitlement to child benefit continues.
Do I receive child benefit if my child lives in a non-treaty country?
In most cases no. Child benefit is only paid for children in EU/EEA countries, Switzerland or treaty countries. For other countries, export usually does not apply, unless you work in the Netherlands and pay contributions.
Is my child benefit reduced for residence in Morocco?
Probably yes. Due to the country of residence principle, the benefit is often adjusted to the lower costs in Morocco, usually between 40% and 80% of the Dutch amount. Contact the SVB for details.
What if both the Netherlands and the country of residence pay child benefit?
No double payment is made. Within EU/EEA and treaty countries, the country of employment usually determines who pays, with any supplement from the other country.
Local Information Leiden
For legal support in Leiden, you can go to:
- Den Haag District Court, Leiden Location
- Juridisch Loket Leiden, Stationsweg 46, for free advice on child benefit and other matters.