Forced departure

Forced departure is only applied when the foreign national fails to leave the Netherlands voluntarily and does not accept assistance from the DT&V or other (non-profit) organisations.

Foreign nationals who refuse to leave the country voluntarily can be placed in a detention centre until a flight becomes available and as soon as all travel documents are in order.

In these cases, the DT&V works closely with the countries of origin in order to ensure that foreign nationals can return in a dignified manner.

Return process for adult foreign nationals

This infographic summarises the return process. Foreign nationals whose application for a residence permit has been rejected or whose residence permit has been revoked, or people who are in the Netherlands illegally, must leave the country.

Return process for adult foreign nationals
Image: ©DT&V