Child Benefit upon Moving Abroad
If you or your child lives outside the Netherlands, this may affect your entitlement to child benefit. Whether you continue to receive this benefit depends on the country where you reside and whether the Netherlands has an agreement with that country.
Different Scenarios
| Situation | Child Benefit Possible? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Child lives in EU/EEA country | Yes, in most cases | European coordination rules |
| Child lives in a treaty country | Often yes | Dependent on specific agreements |
| Child lives outside treaty areas | Generally no | No export possible |
| You work in NL, child lives elsewhere | Usually yes | Country of employment principle |
Regulations in the EU
Child Benefit within Europe
Within the EU, specific coordination rules apply:
- You usually receive child benefit from the country where you work
- In case of differences, a supplement from the country of residence may follow
- Overlap of benefits is automatically coordinated
Countries with a Treaty
The Netherlands has bilateral agreements with a number of countries:
- Morocco, Turkey and Tunisia (with restrictions)
- Cape Verde and Suriname
- Consult the SVB for the most recent list of treaties
Amount of the Benefit upon Export
If child benefit is exported, 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 benefit
Notification to the SVB
Are you or your child moving abroad? Then take the following steps:
- Report the move to the SVB immediately
- The SVB determines whether you retain entitlement to child benefit
- Failure to report may lead to repayment of amounts received
Do I receive child benefit if my child is studying abroad?
In most cases yes, especially within the EU. However, your child must be registered with you or be financially dependent on you.
I live in the Netherlands, but my child in Morocco. Am I entitled to child benefit?
Possibly, but often in reduced form 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?
No, double benefits are not possible. Through European or treaty regulations, it is determined which country pays or supplements.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Benefit
How do I report a move to the SVB?
Report the move of you or your child immediately via the SVB website (www.svb.nl) with the online form, by telephone via 0800-0543, or by post. The SVB will then check whether you continue to be entitled to child benefit and adjust the amount if necessary. Failure to report may lead to recovery.
Do I receive child benefit if my child lives in a non-treaty country?
Generally no. Child benefit is only exported to EU/EEA countries, Switzerland or treaty countries. For other countries, there is usually no entitlement, unless you work in the Netherlands and pay contributions. This depends on your situation.
Is my child benefit reduced if my child lives in Morocco?
Yes, that is likely. Although the Netherlands has a treaty with Morocco, the benefit is often adjusted to the lower cost of living. The amount is usually between 40% and 80% of the Dutch child benefit. Contact the SVB for an exact calculation.
What if both the Netherlands and my child's country of residence pay child benefit?
Double payments are not permitted. Within the EU/EEA and treaty countries, coordination rules determine which country pays primarily, usually the country where you work. The other country may provide a supplement if applicable.