Finally! IND Launches New Digital Portal for Biometric Appointments
The Hague – For years, scheduling an appointment with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) meant one thing: waking up early, calling a hotline, and listening to hold music for 45 minutes, only to be told there are no slots available.
That era of frustration is finally ending. The IND has officially launched a new Digital Appointment Portal specifically for biometric services (fingerprints and photos). The system is currently live for the Utrecht and Den Bosch desks, with a nationwide rollout expected later in 2026.
If you need to renew your residence permit or provide biometrics for a new visa, this guide explains exactly how to use the new system, skip the phone queue, and secure that elusive appointment slot.
Table of Contents
- The New Portal: What Can You Do?
- Why Utrecht and Den Bosch?
- Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book Online
- What Are Biometrics? (And Why You Need Them)
- Checklist: What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Pro Tips: Finding a Slot When It Says “Full”
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Dutch Learning Corner
The New Portal: What Can You Do?
The new system replaces the outdated booking tool and reduces the need to call the general number (088 043 0430). It is designed to be mobile-friendly and integrated with DigiD for security.
Key Features:
- 24/7 Scheduling: You no longer need to call during business hours.
- Real-Time Availability: See exactly which slots are open in a calendar view.
- Reschedule/Cancel: Change your time instantly without speaking to an agent.
- Family Booking: Book back-to-back slots for partners and children in one go.
Why Utrecht and Den Bosch?
Currently, this fully digital system is a pilot program active at two of the busiest IND desks:
| IND Desk | Address | Services Available Online |
|---|---|---|
| IND Utrecht | Bergstraat 58, Utrecht | Biometrics, Document Collection, Sticker Placement |
| IND Den Bosch | Magistratenlaan 222, ‘s-Hertogenbosch | Biometrics, Document Collection |
Note: If you live in Amsterdam or Rotterdam, you can generally still choose to go to Utrecht or Den Bosch if you find an earlier slot there. Biometrics are a national system, not city-specific.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book Online
Ready to book? Follow these steps to navigate the Dutch interface (which is mostly translated, but not always perfect).
- Log in to Mijn IND: Go to the official IND website and log in with your DigiD app or SMS code.
- Navigate to ‘Appointments’: Look for the new tab labeled “Afspraak maken” (Make appointment).
- Select Service: Choose “Biometrie afnemen” (Take biometrics) or “Verblijfsdocument ophalen” (Collect residence document).
- Choose Location: Select Utrecht or Den Bosch from the dropdown menu.
- Select Time: Click on a green date. Grey dates mean full.
- Confirm: You will receive a confirmation email with a QR code. Save this QR code!
What Are Biometrics? (And Why You Need Them)
Many expats get confused about when they need to provide biometrics. You cannot just walk in; you must have a pending application.
Biometrics consist of:
- Passport Photo: Taken digitally on-site (no need to bring your own, though having one as backup is smart).
- Fingerprints: Digital scan of all 10 fingers.
- Signature: Digital signature.
You need this appointment if:
– You are a new arrival (TEV procedure).
– You are renewing a residence permit (Verlenging).
– Your old card was lost/stolen and you need a replacement.
– You are changing your purpose of stay (e.g., Student to HSM).
Checklist: What to Bring to Your Appointment
The IND is strict. If you forget a document, they will send you home, and you will have to wait weeks for a new slot.
The Golden Checklist:
✅ Valid Passport: The original, not a copy.
✅ Appointment Confirmation: The email with the QR code (on phone is fine).
✅ Current Residence Permit: If you have one (for renewals).
✅ IND Letter (V-Number): Any letter you received requesting biometrics (optional but helpful).
Pro Tips: Finding a Slot When It Says “Full”
Even with the new portal, slots fill up fast. Here is how seasoned expats beat the system:
1. The “8 AM Rule”: The IND often releases new slots or cancelled appointments between 08:00 and 09:00 in the morning. Check the portal then.
2. Refresh, Don’t Call: Calling the helpdesk usually won’t help; agents see the same calendar you do. Refreshing the browser page is more effective.
3. Be Willing to Travel: If you live in Amsterdam but need your card urgently, a train ride to Den Bosch (1 hour) is worth it if they have a slot tomorrow vs. waiting 3 weeks for Amsterdam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bring my children to the appointment?
Yes, if the appointment is for them. Children aged 6 and older must be present for fingerprints. Children under 6 only need a photo (and must be present).
Do I need to pay for the appointment?
No. The appointment itself is free. You usually pay the application fees (leges) online before this stage.
What if I am late?
The IND is very efficient. If you are more than 5-10 minutes late, your slot may be given away. Arrive 15 minutes early to go through security.
Dutch Learning Corner
| Word (Dutch) | Pronunciation | Meaning | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 📅 De Afspraak | De Af-spraakk | The Appointment | Ik wil online een afspraak maken. (I want to make an appointment online.) |
| 👆 De Vingerafdruk | De Vin-ger-af-druk | Fingerprint | Je moet je vingerafdrukken laten scannen. (You must have your fingerprints scanned.) |
| 🏢 Het Loket | Het Lo-ket | The Desk / Counter | Meld je bij het IND loket. (Report to the IND desk.) |
| 🆔 Het Verblijfsdocument | Het Ver-blijfs-do-cu-ment | Residence Document | Mijn verblijfsdocument is klaar. (My residence document is ready.) |
TDD Community Question
Have you tried the new portal in Utrecht or Den Bosch yet? Was it smoother than calling? Share your wait times and experiences below to help others!
