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| 4 | Table of content 1. Key points 6

2. The aims of consular service 10

3. Consultation with the public and other stakeholders 14

4. Wishes and expectations 16

5. Frameworks 18

6. Guiding principles 22

7. Policy agenda 26

Appendix 1: Consular Products & Services Catalogue 34 Appendix 2: Consular data 66 Appendix 3: Statutory framework 82 Appendix 4: White paper 86 | 5 | 1Key points Key points

Dutch people travel, study and work all over the world. Each year, the Dutch make around 25 million trips abroad. More Dutch nationals – around 1 million – live abroad than in Amsterdam. Likewise, there has been a sharp increase in the number of visitors to the Netherlands who require a visa. In 2017 more than 620,000 visas were issued: a 10% increase on 2016. The regulated entry of foreign nationals is of major importance to the Dutch economy. At the same time, it is equally important to be able to deny visa requests if there are doubts about the applicant’s intentions.

Our consular teams around the world are always standing by, for the Netherlands’ interests and for Dutch nationals.

This is Trends in Consular Affairs: a document drafted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the state of consular services available to Dutch nationals abroad, foreign nationals who require a visa and businesspeople wishing to travel to the Netherlands. An annual public consultation has been started for the purpose of generating input for this document. It is clear from this first consultation that people around the world greatly value consular services. At the same time, it is apparent that most respondents are not fully aware of the scope of the services offered, and the conditions under which they are available.

The government feels strongly that consular services should be in tune with customers’ needs. | 7 | However, it is equally important that customers are aware what they can and cannot rely on, what they are expected to do themselves, and what the Dutch government is able or permitted to do. In this first edition of ‘Trends in Consular Affairs’ we explain the consular service’s tasks and vision, the context and framework within which services are available and our efforts for continued improvement, in line with customers’ wishes and within the bounds of what is possible.

The document examines the ongoing organisational development agenda, which we will be building on in the coming years. It also provides, for the first time, an overview of the full package of consular products and services. For more information see the Products and Services Catalogue in the appendix, which explicitly refers to them as a service, as opposed to an instrument of the Netherlands’ integrated foreign policy.

‘Trends in Consular Affairs’, to be published annually, will report on the results of the previous year and function as a white paper, identifying any major problems encountered by those making use of consular services. This document draws on an annual public consultation and includes contributions and evaluations by stakeholders (e.g. audits by the Netherlands Court of Audit and internal and external evaluations). For example, in preparing this document we were in contact with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Policy and Operations Evaluation Department (IOB) concerning the evaluation of the consular service which will be published later this year. The annual report on providing assistance to prisoners abroad, sent to the House of Representatives separately since 2011, will be integrated into this document as of 2019. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will also ensure that there is targeted communication and clear public information on consular affairs that ties in with this document. Trends in Consular Affairs

Consular services in focus | 2017

ASSISTANCE TO DUTCH NATIONALS ASSISTANCE IN CRISES ISSUES IN FOCUS Including the following incidents: Assisted in emergencies Customer-oriented and modern consular services, including 3,071 abroad by our embassies Dutch nationals and consulates 3 June External service providers at more than 90 locations worldwide 70 45 Terrorist aack in London Pilot for online visa applications Missing persons Cases of child abduction, abandonment etc. in Kampala and Santo Domingo 137 17 August Hospital admissions Terrorist aacks in Spain – Barcelona & Cambrils | 8 | 5 Combating forced marriage Journalists 329 30 August - 13 September and abandonment Cases of nancial mediation Hurricane Irma in the Caribbean

28 September

Volcano eruption – Agung, Bali European visa policy 385 2,100 and Caribbean visa policy Deaths Prisoners

Travel advice Almost 63,500 Approx. Almost 620,000 Launch of More than 700,000 direct consulted approx. registrations with the 130,000 short-stay visas issued to netherlandsworldwide.nl interactions with customers via 2.3 million times Information Service passports issued foreign tourists, business and netherlandsandyou.nl the 24/7 Contact Centre travellers and students

Figures for various 10% increase PRODUCTS on last year AND SERVICES Key points

ASSISTANCE TO DUTCH NATIONALS ASSISTANCE IN CRISES ISSUES IN FOCUS Including the following incidents: Assisted in emergencies Customer-oriented and modern consular services, including 3,071 abroad by our embassies Dutch nationals and consulates 3 June External service providers at more than 90 locations worldwide 70 45 Terrorist aack in London Pilot for online visa applications Missing persons Cases of child abduction, abandonment etc. in Kampala and Santo Domingo 137 17 August Hospital admissions Terrorist aacks in Spain – Barcelona & Cambrils 5 | 9 | Combating forced marriage Journalists 329 30 August - 13 September and abandonment Cases of nancial mediation Hurricane Irma in the Caribbean

28 September

Volcano eruption – Agung, Bali European visa policy 385 2,100 and Caribbean visa policy Deaths Prisoners

Travel advice Almost 63,500 Approx. Almost 620,000 Launch of More than 700,000 direct consulted approx. registrations with the 130,000 short-stay visas issued to netherlandsworldwide.nl interactions with customers via 2.3 million times Information Service passports issued foreign tourists, business and netherlandsandyou.nl the 24/7 Contact Centre travellers and students

Figures for various 10% increase PRODUCTS on last year AND SERVICES Trends in Consular Affairs

| 10 | 2The aims of consular service The aims of consular service

Consular services include services for Dutch nationals who are travelling abroad and/ or live outside the country, and for non-Dutch nationals who wish to travel to the Netherlands. For the second category in particular, this document confines itself to services involving the network of missions (i.e. the embassies and consulates for which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible). Consular services have considerable social and political relevance. They are visible and recognisable, and are on the radar of the House of Representatives and the media. The coalition agreement confirmed the Netherlands’ ambition to be a frontrunner in consular affairs. This makes it a cornerstone of our integrated foreign policy.

Consular services are under a great deal of scrutiny. This is understandable, as they have a direct effect on people’s lives. Yet at the same time, it is that very quality – the potential to make a positive impact on people’s lives – that makes the work so enjoyable and motivates those who perform these services. Consular services are often associated with providing help in emergencies, but their value also lies in preventing emergencies by ensuring that Dutch nationals are well prepared for their journey. We help Dutch nationals abroad obtain new travel documents, but also issue non-Dutch nationals with visas so they can visit or live in the Netherlands. It’s a challenging and broad field, which has a direct effect on the people it serves.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs bears primary responsibility within central government for | 11 | establishing the parameters for and providing consular services. The Netherlands’ aim with regard to all these consular services and products is as follows: providing good service worldwide.

The consular service’s mission statement describes, in more concrete terms, how the Ministry of Foreign Affairs pursues this goal.

‘Our services are available 24/7, all year round. The emphasis is on online services that can be accessed from anywhere in the world. Direct, one- to-one contact is available when necessary. This service is provided through our 24/7 BZ Contact Centre, an extensive network of external service providers, our embassies and consulates and, as and when needed, our mobile teams. Our goal is satisfied customers worldwide.

To achieve this, we work with our partners, both inside and outside the government, focusing on the opportunities offered by modern digital society. We are upfront and reliable when it comes to what we can (and cannot) do.’ DeThe Staat aims van of consular het Consulaire service

Consular services Information Assistance for Dutch Population affairs Services to non-Dutch nationals in emergencies nationals

• 24/7 BZ Contact Centre • Crisis and disaster • Travel and identity • Visas/residence • Travel advice response documents • Civic integration exams • Travel App • Consular assistance (in • Emergency documents • Information Service situations including • Legalisations, official hospitalisation, documents and death, murder, consular declarations missing persons, and certificates child abduction, • Facilitating voting forced marriage and abroad imprisonment)

International Desk

Providing good service worldwide is the foreign ministry’s guiding principle and ambition. Its | 12 | services are available to Dutch nationals abroad and foreign nationals wishing to travel to the Netherlands. In this way, the ministry serves Dutch interests and ensures that the Netherlands is there to help Dutch nationals when needed. This document and policy agenda describes the measures taken to achieve this ambition. We will develop these measures further in the coming years.

The International Desk was set up in response to an undertaking specified in the coalition agreement: improving government-wide services for Dutch nationals abroad by making them available in one place, creating a kind of central government one-stop shop. This is a much broader remit than consular products and services alone. Hoofdstuk titel

| 13 | Trends in Consular Affairs

| 14 | 3Consultation with the public and other stakeholders Consultation with the public and other stakeholders

More than ever, when it comes to consular services, central government is committed to giving customers a voice, taking full advantage of the opportunities offered by modern communication technology. This approach will no longer be the exception, but the rule. With this in mind, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs initiated an annual public consultation.

The results of the first consultation support the principle that consular assistance should focus on those who really need it, while taking due account of individual responsibility. The public also said it wanted quicker access to up-to-date information on the security situation in foreign countries, and an easier application process for passports and visas (e.g. the possibility to apply online and at more locations).

Globally, the focus is on dialogue. This consultation and the present document form the starting point for a long-term annual dialogue with Dutch nationals and other stakeholders on consular services (Global Forum for Dutch Citizens). Our customers’ interests, expectations and problems will also emerge via regular customer surveys, stakeholder meetings, evaluations and the complaints procedure.

As part of ‘Trends in Consular Affairs’ the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will take stock annually of the situation and report on problems in consular services experienced by Dutch nationals | 15 | and professional stakeholders (white paper; appendix 4). Wherever possible, the results of the consultations will be used as input for efforts to modernise, improve and streamline the consular service in the years ahead. These results are especially relevant for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but where appropriate they will be passed on to other partners within central government, so the necessary steps can be taken. Trends in Consular Affairs

| 16 | 4Wishes and expectations Wishes and expectations

Public consultations and dialogue with customers are crucial; they help to shape the services we offer. However, there are certain expectations and wishes that cannot be met. These limitations result from national and/or European legislation, financial constraints, organisational capacity and the competences of and dependence on other parties.

In addition to this, it should be remembered that consular services are offered in a context in which change is the only constant. Conflicts, terrorism, violence, natural disasters and political, social and technological developments all influence the international environment and the economic and security landscape within which consular services operate.

For example: • Different laws, rules and customs apply abroad, and the approach taken by other countries will not always be comparable to that of the Netherlands. These differences are most apparent in countries where society and the general level of care deviate most sharply from what is customary in the Netherlands. • Thanks to mobile phones and social media, the nature of the demand for assistance on the part of Dutch nationals abroad has evolved. More and more often, people who are unable to contact a family member abroad ask for consular assistance. At the same time, modern communication technology has enhanced people’s self-reliance, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is less often | 17 | asked to provide financial mediation in the event of loss or theft. • The popularity of online shopping has fostered a mentality of ‘order today, get it tomorrow’. Accordingly, people applying for consular products expect applications to be easy and delivery swift. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs can, to some extent, fulfil this expectation, but at the same time it has a duty, when performing its public task, to ensure that its decisions are taken with care and consideration. • Our fast-paced online society and engaging television programmes like Ontvoerd (real-life cases of child abduction) and Floortje naar het einde van de wereld (adventurous travel) bring the world into our living rooms at the touch of a button. However, reality is often more complicated than what we see there. • In many situations, foreign governments have exclusive authority to act. The Dutch government is often only able to offer indirect support or mediation, in partnership with the foreign government. The local security situation and the state of diplomatic relations with the country in question also have a bearing on the level of service we can offer. This is particularly true in conflict areas. And in some situations, for example in the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster, lack of infrastructure may mean that little or no assistance is available, at the very time that it is most needed. • Economic growth and globalisation have resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of travellers and visa applications. Although this is ultimately to the benefit of the Netherlands, it is more important than ever to exercise care in making decisions about who is and is not allowed into the country. We have a duty to combat terrorism, crime and irregular migration. Trends in Consular Affairs

| 18 | 5Frameworks Frameworks

Asking customers about their wishes and ideas will help us understand how to improve the services we offer and our communication with customers. At the same time, there is the risk that customers will then expect us to meet all their wishes. Although it is good to be aware of what customers would like to see in an ideal world, it must also be clear that we do not have unlimited freedom and resources. Moreover, individuals also need to shoulder some degree of responsibility.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is focusing on being upfront and reliable, by being clear about: • what consular services the government provides, and the parameters within which this is done; • what limits exist on what the Dutch government can, or may, do, and how that affects its decisions; and • what customers can and cannot rely on, and what they are expected to do themselves.

See the appendix, which provides an overview of the full package of consular products and services. It sets out the services available and specifies the frameworks which apply.

These frameworks include the following issues that touch on several aspects of consular services: • The frameworks applicable to providing consular assistance to Dutch nationals in an emergency have not been described clearly and consistently, and they are not widely known. Accordingly, Dutch nationals are unaware of what they can and cannot rely on, what they are expected to | 19 | do themselves, and what limits there are to what the Dutch government can and cannot do. This may lead to unrealistic expectations. The type and level of consular assistance currently offered is based on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ many years of experience in this area. Like many other countries, the Netherlands has no national legislation on consular assistance and the form it should take. It is up to the government to determine these things, with due regard for the principle of proper administration. The guiding principle is the right to equal treatment, as set out in the Constitution. • Other products and services are governed by formal, established national, international and European frameworks in the form of legislation (e.g. European laws on visas or international agreements on legalisation). Although there is certainly value in having a legal basis for consular services, such legislation can also limit the scope for modernising customer-oriented consular services. TrendsFrameworks in Consular Affairs

This document addresses both of the above issues and describes how the Netherlands intends to address them. In addition to these factors, the scope of the Ministry’s own capacity and resources (and those of the network of missions) means that priorities must be set. Providing services abroad is expensive and calls for clear choices.

The mission network The Netherlands provides consular services through its approximately 140 representations, e.g. embassies and consulates-general, worldwide. These representations are responsible for Dutch interests in 224 countries and regions. The Netherlands’ mission network is the 18th most extensive in the world. These representations are run by a combination of local staff and staff posted from the Netherlands. They are supported by 282 honorary consuls worldwide, especially in the area of economic diplomacy. Providing consular services is one of the core tasks of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the one that brings Dutch people abroad most closely into contact with it.

| 20 | Hoofdstuk titel

| 21 | Trends in Consular Affairs

| 22 | 6Guiding principles Guiding principles

In view of the consular service’s ambitions, and the frameworks and context within which they are pursued, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs observes the following guidelines and principles.

The customer’s own role and responsibility • It is important to remember that consular customers have their own role to play. It is the responsibility of everyone who travels abroad to prepare properly for their trip. This includes finding out beforehand about the security situation at their destination, ensuring that they have the correct documents and insurance, and completing and submitting an application for a travel document or visa. Moreover, anyone who travels outside the Netherlands must respect local rules and customs. Taking responsibility for your own behaviour includes being respectful of your surroundings and to the service providers you encounter. The government helps people take responsibility by actively providing adequate information, but it also reminds travellers that there are consequences for disrespecting local standards and ignoring advice.

Reliable and predictable • The government is clear about the role the Dutch government plays and what customers of the consular service can and cannot rely on (with due regard for the amount of scope for Dutch nationals, the private sector, civil society groups and international partners to take action themselves). | 23 |

Modern and customer-friendly • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs facilitates access to the services it offers by providing high- quality information and by ensuring that consular products and services can be applied for online and/or as close to the scene as possible.

Online where possible and in person where necessary • When customers need to speak to someone, the authorities can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week via the 24/7 BZ Contact Centre. They can also solicit help from the network of missions and the network of external service providers. For major events and crisis situations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will where possible deploy consular experts at the scene and work with mobile teams. TrendsGuiding in principles Consular Affairs

Added value and a tailored approach • The services offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are provided on behalf of and at the expense of the taxpayer. Accordingly, services are made available if they have added value, in places and circumstances where the need is most pressing. • Some consular issues can only be resolved through contact between the Dutch government and the government of the country in question. To ensure it remains an effective tool, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs only uses diplomatic escalation (including quiet diplomacy) selectively, following careful consideration. Adopting a tailored approach creates room to provide active, efficient and personal service in urgent situations, for example when someone’s immediate safety or human rights are threatened. However, this means that the government will pull back once the person concerned is deemed to be self-reliant again.

No interference in the internal legal order of other countries • The Dutch government does not interfere in the internal legal order of other countries. • The Netherlands respects other countries’ laws (‘When in Rome...’), but it will offer assistance and advice where possible. • Equally, with due regard for its rights and obligations under international law, the Netherlands does not permit foreign consular services to interfere in the Dutch legal order.

| 24 | Cooperation with Dutch and international partners • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is focused on cooperation with internal and external partners. Each party operates in line with its own responsibilities and expertise, with one shared goal in view: serving the interests of the Netherlands and Dutch nationals. Sharing information is an important part of this. • Consular services are provided by embassies and consulate-generals worldwide and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in The Hague working together. Often they are aided by honorary consuls around the world who can step in during emergencies.

Respect for the individual – confidential and independent • Ultimately, the emphasis is on the specific service provided to individual Dutch citizens, with the guiding principle of across-the-board equality. • The rights and privacy of individuals must be protected wherever possible; discussions in the media and in the political arena are therefore confined to general topics rather than specific cases and individuals. • In the interests of maintaining confidentiality while staying effective, the Ministry pursues quiet diplomacy. • Consular services are provided independently and neutrally, free of political considerations or other aspects of foreign policy. • Consular cooperation is sought with all partners worldwide, independent of other bilateral relations. Hoofdstuk titel

| 25 | Trends in Consular Affairs

| 26 | 7Policy agenda Policy agenda

Information provision The multi-channel approach • Wherever possible, consular services are provided where the customers actually are and where the information is required. The emphasis is on offering our consular products to customers in a user-friendly, accessible manner, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whether they are preparing for a journey, applying for a travel document or visa, or dealing with a problem that has arisen abroad. • Customers can choose which channel they wish to use to ask for information or contact consular officials. Online, they can visit the websites netherlandsworldwide.nl and netherlandsandyou.nl, while the 24/7 BZ Contact Centre can be reached by phone, email and Twitter (and via chat and WhatsApp in the near future).

Expanding the service to include government-wide products and services • With a view to meeting the needs of Dutch nationals abroad, the coalition agreement specified that government-wide services should be available in one place (the 24/7 International Desk). The current 24/7 BZ Contact Centre already receives questions about products and services for which other parts of central government are responsible (e.g. driving licences, DigiD, old-age pensions or taxes). • The existing infrastructure of the 24/7 BZ Contact Centre, the network of missions, external service | 27 | providers and the website netherlandsworldwide.nl forms a good basis for giving shape to the International Desk in the coming years. This project will take several years to complete, requiring close cooperation with the relevant partners within central government and implementing organisations. The type of information and services available will be expanded step by step. • Three steps will be taken this year: »» completing a global customer satisfaction survey among Dutch nationals abroad; »» setting up an online and phone-based service, which offers sufficient – but rudimentary – referrals to the most relevant government parties; »» moving several products/services to the Desk, in the form of a pilot project.

Improved information services concerning security abroad • Central government wants Dutch nationals to be well prepared for their trips abroad and to keep them abreast of relevant news when they are out of the country. Accordingly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs actively works to provide information to Dutch nationals on the security situation abroad. • Dutch nationals who travel abroad are responsible for their own safety and for taking the appropriate steps to that end. At the very least, all Dutch nationals are expected to be informed about the security situation at their destination and take out appropriate travel insurance. This information is available via online travel advice via netherlandsworldwide.nl, the 24/7 Travel App and the Information Service. Trends in Consular Affairs

• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs aims to increase the public’s awareness of these services by: »» intensifying cooperation with leading stakeholders in the areas of travel and safety and security abroad. Examples include the Dutch Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (ANVR), the Disaster Fund, major travel organisations, emergency support centres and insurers. For example, the Ministry and the ANVR are joining forces to implement the EU Directive on package travel and linked travel arrangements. An annual meeting will be arranged between stakeholders and the Minister of Foreign Affairs; »» continuing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ public information campaign, which emphasises the importance of thorough preparation and spotlights consular information services; this campaign will increasingly involve other government bodies focused on the same target groups; »» where possible, pointing customers in the direction of our travel advice when they book their trip. • Improving the quality of the services available, by: »» making sure that information is as up-to-date as possible (with accuracy taking precedence over speed); »» providing the most specific information possible on the security situation abroad; | 28 | »» checking periodically (at least one every four years) whether the information provided is still relevant to the wishes and experiences of the target group. • Improving the technical quality of the services, by: »» ensuring that they are compatible with standard operating systems; »» optimising user friendliness, based on customer feedback; »» adding new services, based on customer feedback. Policy agenda

Consular assistance Managing expectations This document is the first attempt at providing a clear, complete overview of the consular assistance available to Dutch nationals abroad. Over the coming months and years, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will engage with the public to raise awareness as broadly as possible about the parameters within which consular assistance is offered. Consular assistance, as described in the products and services catalogue in the appendix to this document, is the starting point for clear and accessible public information. One of the communication goals is to inform Dutch nationals of what they can and cannot rely on in the event of an emergency abroad, what they are expected to do themselves, and what limits there are to what the Dutch government can and cannot do abroad. Among other things, the scope of consular assistance is dependent on Dutch nationals’ own role, responsibilities and behaviour, and whether they hold multiple nationalities. These factors are also explained. This information allows Dutch nationals to prepare more thoroughly for a stay abroad, enhance their self-reliance and shoulder a certain degree of responsibility. As a result, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can focus its assistance on those who need it the most and have no one else to turn to.

EU cooperation in the event of a crisis and in specific cases Cooperation at EU level contributes to the safety and security of individuals and to further improving the service available, for example the response in crisis situations. This was highlighted during the | 29 | Netherlands’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2016, and in specific situations in which EU partners are increasingly working together. European nations are also joining forces in specific areas, for example combating forced marriage and abandonment.

The Netherlands continues to support robust European cooperation on consular matters and works actively to achieve it. However, this is not easy and it will not happen overnight. Until sufficient quality is guaranteed across the board at European level, the Netherlands will continue to set the tone for its own consular services.

Vulnerable groups This document constitutes the starting point for the further development of policy for specific aspects of consular assistance and certain vulnerable groups – see the following three examples. • The task and added value of consular assistance for psychologically distressed/homeless people lies primarily in communicating with the relevant parties in the Netherlands and abroad and in facilitating the processes of foreign and Dutch medical or other institutions. The assistance currently available is often unsatisfactory because provisions are not available for this specific category of vulnerable Dutch nationals either at home or abroad. Over the coming months the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will work hard to draw up an integrated approach, together with its national and international partners, whereby each party will carry out its share of the tasks and the consular assistance provided will be proportionate and effective. • In the past year, central government has sought to strengthen and pool expertise on forced marriage and abandonment in order to increase the effectiveness of its approach. In the coming Trends in Consular Affairs

months it will be a priority of consular policy, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs taking active steps in this regard by engaging in interministerial and international cooperation in this area. This will help us prevent new cases from occurring and offer victims the support they need. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also works closely with the National Expertise Centre on Forced Marriage and Abandonment (LKHA). • As part of our customised approach, we pay particular attention to the consular assistance given to vulnerable Dutch prisoners abroad. These prisoners may be vulnerable due to a range of factors including age, illness, addiction and discrimination. We are working with other organisations involved in assisting Dutch prisoners abroad to look at ways of identifying vulnerable individuals as early as possible.

Population affairs Travel documents The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for issuing travel documents to Dutch nationals living abroad. The Ministry also issues emergency documents to Dutch nationals abroad whose travel document has been lost or stolen, allowing them to return to their place of residence. In most countries Dutch nationals can currently apply for a travel document at the embassy in the country’s capital and/or at a consulate-general. Non-resident Dutch nationals can also apply at one of several | 30 | border municipalities or at the Haarlemmermeer municipal desk at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport while visiting the Netherlands. Over the next few years central government wants to bring its travel document services closer to customers and to digitalise these services as far as possible without compromising either security or quality. • Following a successful pilot project in Edinburgh, the option to submit passport applications via external service providers (ESPs) will be rolled out at other locations around the world. In selecting these locations, the Ministry took account of the wishes of parliament and carefully considered which cities would entail the greatest possible added value for Dutch nationals abroad. Relevant factors included the distance to the nearest professionally staffed Dutch mission with a consular desk, the distance to the Netherlands and the possibility of offering an additional premium service outside regular opening hours. In 2018/2019 ESP passport service will be expanded to London and an additional location in the Midlands (UK), Edmonton (Canada), Perth (Australia), Chicago (US) and an as yet undetermined city in Spain. • Missions in several countries around the world already use mobile fingerprinting devices for off-site passport applications. This roll-out will be stepped up, allowing applications for travel documents to be submitted at locations other than embassies and consulates-general. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs intends to start using mobile fingerprinting devices on a more regular basis to supplement the existing mission network and the extra ESP locations. Consular staff members will be released from other duties to travel with the device to various countries around the world and allow Dutch nationals abroad to apply for travel documents closer to home. Where possible these ‘mobile consular brigades’ will also provide other government services. Policy agenda

• At the same time the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, which is responsible for the policy on travel documents, is reviewing the options for digitalising the application process for travel documents as much as possible. Due to the requirement laid down in the Passport Act that applications must be submitted in person, a fully digital process is not an option at this time. One important reason for this is security, as the House of Representative was recently informed. • Finally, this year saw the launch of the passport tool on netherlandsworldwide.nl. With the help of this tool, applicants can create an online personal checklist of the documents they need to submit. As a result, they can come to their appointments well prepared, and applications can be processed faster.

Voting while abroad It is still possible to cast your vote while abroad by sending or handing in postal votes to an embassy/ consulate-general. In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will look into the pros and cons of setting up regular polling stations at embassies in countries with a large Dutch community. The Ministry will also consider the options for more active efforts to register voters, increase turnout and answer questions put by voters worldwide.

Phasing out the legalisation of foreign documents Legalisation is the process of making documents suitable for use in another country. The Ministry | 31 | of Foreign Affairs legalises Dutch documents for use abroad and foreign documents for use in the Netherlands. It is in the process of phasing out its role in the legalisation of foreign documents for use in the Netherlands, wherever possible.

Already, the Ministry is not involved in legalising documents from the 117 countries that are party to the Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents (Apostille Convention, 1961). The Convention provides for a simplified procedure that makes official documents suitable for use in another country. An official body in the country where the document was issued affixes an apostille, i.e. a stamp or sticker with a standard format, to the document allowing it to be used elsewhere. The missions currently still legalise documents issued in 40 countries. At the missions in 40 other countries this practice was discontinued on 1 January 2016 in consultation with visa and immigration system partners, because the apostille offered a false sense of security. In light of the limited added value, the Ministry, in consultation with the parties involved, intends to phase out this practice in the 40 countries where foreign documents are still legalised at the missions. The legalisation of foreign documents issued by an embassy or consulate in the Netherlands, a service currently provided by the Consular Service Centre (CDC) at the Ministry in The Hague, will also be phased out. The same applies for the service by which the CDC can mediate for Dutch nationals who want to request documents from abroad and/or have documents legalised abroad. This decision was made on account of the long processing time, the high costs to the applicant and the fact that the internet allows members of the public to request such documents from abroad with increasing ease. Trends in Consular Affairs

Schengen visas The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for issuing short-stay visas – also known as Schengen visas. Performing this task, which is part of the regular admission procedure, makes the Ministry part of the Netherlands’ immigration system. • The number of Schengen visa applications for the Netherlands rose by 45% between 2011 and 2017. Short-stay visitors to the Netherlands are very beneficial for our country. According to a recent report published by SEO Amsterdam Economics, visa policy boosts the Dutch economy by more than €300 million a year. More and more business travellers and tourists are finding their way to the Netherlands. The aim is to make entry as simple as possible for this target group. • The report shows that business travellers bring more benefits than other types of traveller. SEO also identified nine promising countries where the Netherlands’ visa policy yields particular results. The rise in the number of applications, combined with the recognition that certain groups of visa holders boost the Dutch economy, means that it is in the country’s interest to identify additional target groups that can be assisted by central government. The Orange and Blue Carpet visa facility programmes are examples of this. The programmes were set up for businesses that have good ties with the Netherlands and for employees of Dutch shipping companies, respectively. In the year ahead the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will be working with private sector partners to explore opportunities for introducing similar programmes to be | 32 | aimed at startups, specific sectors or businesses from countries of interest to the Netherlands. • Another important measure that will be taken to facilitate Dutch interests is the use of commercial visa application offices (external service providers). This will allow central government to bring the service closer to the client, making it easier to apply for a visa for the Netherlands. An online visa application form has also been developed. Unfortunately, applicants will still need to visit the ESP visa applications office in person to register their biometric data. • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has begun centralising the decision-making process in The Hague. Between now and the end of 2020, regional back offices will gradually be transferred to the Consular Service Organisation (CSO) in The Hague. The CSO is a central back office where decisions are taken on visa applications, in conjunction with other partners in the immigration system. The CSO performs this task for various missions that have final responsibility for issuing visas. The Netherlands is in talks with the European Commission on how this procedure can be integrated in existing Schengen agreements. • Issuing visas is in the Netherlands’ economic interests. At the same time, before a visa can be issued, possible risks to public policy and security and the risk of the applicant overstaying their visa must be assessed. The Netherlands has introduced a new procedure to deal with the sharp increase in the number of visa applications: information-supported decision-making (IOB). Information-supported decision-making uses data analyses to flag opportunities, risks, trends and patterns. It enables staff to focus attention on applications that may pose a risk. This means that the Netherlands will be able to process the vast majority of visa applications more quickly. Policy agenda

• With this new approach, the Netherlands will make optimum use of the opportunities offered by digital technology. Indeed, improved use of information is the future, as long as it meets the associated conditions set down in national and international legislation. Being willing and able to share information is vitally important, but unfortunately not always standard practice. • Part of continuing to develop information-supported decision-making involves tapping into additional sources of information, especially from our partners in the immigration system. Moreover, the Netherlands will also draw on information from public sources or European systems. The Netherlands is also keen to access and store information about the local context of visa applications, and to flag current trends and patterns with the help of the network of missions. • Within the Schengen Area, the Netherlands is at the forefront of such efforts. The idea is to encourage the European Commission and Schengen partners to take the same direction and to anchor this development firmly in future EU legislation.

These are the measures the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is taking in the interests of providing effective consular services for the Netherlands and for Dutch nationals worldwide.

| 33 | Appendix 1 Consular Products & Services Catalogue Appendix 1

Information 36 24/7 BZ Contact Centre 36 Information about security and crises abroad 36 Travel advice 36 Travel App 38 Information Service 39

Assistance for Dutch nationals in emergencies 40 Crisis and disaster response 40 Consular services for Dutch nationals abroad 40 Hospital admissions 42 Deaths 42 Psychologically distressed/destitute people 43 Financial mediation 45 Loss/theft/robbery 45 Missing persons 45 Special cases 45 Attacks 46 Kidnappings 46 ‘Returnees’ and other threats to national security 46 | 35 | Family issues 46 Forced marriage and abandonment 47 International child abduction 47 Reciprocal consular diplomacy 48 Other cases and aftercare 48 Prisoners 48 Vulnerable prisoners 50 Proactively providing information on WETS/WOTS 50 Legal assistance 50 The course of justice abroad 51 Death penalty 53

Population Affairs 54 Travel and identity documents 54 Voting while abroad 56 Other matters that fall under Population Affairs 56

Provision of services to non-Dutch nationals 60 Schengen visa 60 Caribbean visas 62 Authorisation for temporary stay 62 The civic integration exam abroad 63 Trends in Consular Affairs

Information

24/7 BZ Contact Centre Consular services start with the provision of accurate information and responses to queries. Launched in 2015, the 24/7 BZ Contact Centre responds to first-line queries about consular services. Anyone can contact the centre if they have a question about emergency assistance, travel advice, travel documents, visas and legalisation.

The Contact Centre is part of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week on a single number: +31 247 247 247. As a result, customers can now choose between looking up information online using the netherlandsworldwide.nl or netherlandsandyou.nl websites, or getting in touch with the Contact Centre by email, phone or Twitter. The 24/7 BZ Contact Centre responds to first-line queries about consular services and refers customers to the right place to find more information, make an appointment to apply for a consular product or service, or – in emergencies – puts customers in touch with second-line support.

Information about security and crises abroad By providing useful, up-to-date information on security and crises abroad, the foreign ministry ensures that Dutch nationals are better prepared for their trips and can stay abreast of relevant | 36 | events when travelling. That said, it remains the underlying principle that customers themselves are responsible for their own safety and for taking adequate steps to avoid risks. At the very least, Dutch nationals are expected to inform themselves about the security situation at their destination and take out appropriate travel insurance. Our focus is on prevention, i.e. ensuring that Dutch nationals abroad don’t encounter problems in the first place. Failing that, we seek to mitigate any problems they may experience.

Information about security and crises abroad is made available in three ways, through: • online travel advice on netherlandsworldwide.nl • the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Travel App • the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Information Service.

Travel advice The ministry’s online travel advice sets out the security risks to Dutch nationals travelling abroad, using text and internationally recognised, colour-coded maps. The advice is independent, neutral and free from political influence. Appendix 1

We observe the following principles when Montenera (fictional example) drawing up travel advice: • The safety and security of Dutch nationals abroad is paramount, and only things that pose a risk to Dutch nationals are included in travel advice. This means the advice is strict when necessary and flexible when possible. • Travel advice is drawn up with great care and based on objective and independent information gathered from a range of sources, including intelligence services, local authorities, other European Union member states, ministries, the global network of Dutch missions, companies and non-governmental organisations. • The advice is kept as up to date as possible, with accuracy taking precedence over speed. As a result, advice may not always match information available from other sources, such as the media, that has not been gathered and | 37 | consolidated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. • In some cases the Dutch authorities can offer only very limited consular assistance in certain regions, or possibly none at all. This is explained in the travel advice for the regions in question. If Dutch nationals experience problems in such regions and request consular assistance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can attach conditions or consequences to this assistance. For instance, the Ministry may charge them for providing exceptional assistance and/or publicly condemn their actions, even if it does ultimately assist them. • In its travel advice, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs refers readers to information that the Ministry has no ownership over, but which is relevant for the security of Dutch nationals. This includes information from the National Coordination Centre for Travel Advice (LCR) and the Royal Dutch Touring Club (ANWB). • The advice, which uses the central government visual identity, is designed to be as user-friendly as possible. It is written using B1-level language, so that the content can be understood by the vast majority of the Dutch population. The security situation in each country is also shown using colour-coded maps. Trends in Consular Affairs

Number of unique visitors 2,500,000 to travel advice pages 2,000,000 per year 1,500,000

1,000,000

500,000

0 2014 2015 2016 2017

In 2017 the Ministry’s travel advice pages were viewed more than 1.7 million times.

Travel App In order to bring travel advice into the 21st century, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs developed a dedicated Travel App in 2012. The Travel App contains travel advice, information on what to do in emergency situations (e.g. hospitalisation, death or arrest) and the contact details of all Dutch | 38 | embassies, consulates-general, honorary consuls and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in The Hague. Adding a country to their ‘favourites’ will allow customers to receive push notifications about changes to the travel advice for that country. Since its introduction the app has been downloaded approximately 500,000 times, and usage is increasing each year (see the table below).

Travel App downloads 60,000 per year 50,000

40,000

30,000

20,000

10,000

0 2015 2016 2017 Appendix 1

Information Service The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Information Service went live in April 2017. The service offers Dutch nationals the following options: • Subscribing to travel advice and crisis alerts: customers receive updated travel advice and crisis alerts (via email/text message) for their selected country or countries. • Registering as a Dutch national abroad: Dutch nationals can opt to provide the Information Service with their details – such as the address where they are staying, a contact person for emergencies and the length of time they will be abroad. That way, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a record of which Dutch nationals are in a foreign country at any given time. Dutch nationals who register as being abroad for a longer period of time also have the option of subscribing to additional, non-security-related information (for example, on consular services or events) from the Dutch embassy or consulate.

Since the Information Service went live, around 100,000 people have registered for it. The number of people subscribing to crisis alerts and travel advice updates is around the same as the number of people registering with the missions.

Information Service subscriptions/registrations April 2017-July 2018 | 39 | 100,000 90,000 80,000 70,000 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0

April May June July April May June July August March October JanuaryFebruary September NovemberDecember

Subscribers Registrations Total Trends in Consular Affairs

Assistance for Dutch nationals in emergencies

Crisis and disaster response The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is there for Dutch nationals who are in serious trouble abroad. When there is a crisis abroad that Dutch nationals are involved in – like an earthquake or terrorist attack – the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for providing consular assistance on the ground and for diplomatic tasks relating to the crisis. The Ministry works closely with partner countries (including other EU member states), international organisations and other stakeholders like major travel organisations. Assistance on the ground is coordinated by the relevant Dutch embassy or consulate- general, together with the honorary consul where necessary. If more capacity is needed, a Rapid Deployment Crisis Support Team (SCOT) can be sent to the region.

If there is no other option, the Ministry may decide to evacuate Dutch nationals from the affected region, provided it is safe to do so. Depending on the circumstances and options available, Dutch nationals will either be evacuated to a nearby safe place or repatriated to the Netherlands. As soon as they arrive in the Netherlands, they are the responsibility of the Ministry of Justice and Security.

The Dutch government has no legal obligation to evacuate Dutch nationals in the event of a crisis abroad and can decide not to do so. However, the government does have an obligation to inform | 40 | Dutch nationals about the security situation abroad in good time and to advise them accordingly. This is done in the ways set out above.

Evacuation of Dutch nationals in recent years

2011 Japan KLM flight 2011 Libya Dutch military flight, partner countries 2013 South Sudan partner countries 2015 Jemen IOM and partner countries 2015 Nepal Dutch military flights, flights with SOS International, partner countries 2016 Zuid-Soedan partner countries 2017 Sint-Maarten Dutch military flights, KLM flight and partner countries

Consular assistance for Dutch nationals abroad The term ‘consular assistance’ (also known as social consular services) refers to the help offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Dutch nationals who are experiencing problems abroad and who cannot arrange assistance independently. It is provided upon request. Appendix 1

All communication regarding such assistance is with the Dutch national in question or their designated contact person only.

Examples of situations where a request for consular assistance can be made include robbery, a missing person incident, death, hospitalisation, murder, imprisonment and kidnapping (including child abductions). Broader crises and disasters that affect a town, region or country may also result in people needing consular assistance. In many cases, consular assistance involves establishing contact with family members in the Netherlands and healthcare providers and other professionals like lawyers, interpreters, doctors and funeral directors who can offer specialised assistance; mediating between these parties; and dealing with the authorities in the country in question. Providing assistance to Dutch prisoners abroad is a separate form of consular assistance (see ‘Prisoners’).

As each case is different, consular assistance requires a tailored approach. Various factors play a role in this regard, like the extent to which our consular staff are dependent on the local authorities, the wider context, the individual’s own role in the situation in question, and nationality.

Self-reliance In most cases, Dutch nationals who encounter problems abroad are capable of resolving the situation, either with the help of travelling companions or friends and family back home, or with | 41 | assistance from a Dutch emergency support centre and/or the local authorities. Only in a small percentage of cases is assistance required from the Dutch government. The consular assistance provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs centres on situations in which there are few if any other parties who can offer assistance. In practice, this is often in dire emergencies or in cases requiring communication via official government channels. The underlying principle is that as soon as it becomes clear that the Dutch national can resolve the situation independently – for instance, after contacting friends and family at home or the relevant professionals – consular assistance will cease.

Contextual factors Consular assistance is also determined by the nature of the situation in question, in terms of the individual’s vulnerability, the type of assistance they are requesting and their location. The nature of the problem and local circumstances – like the security situation, legislation, logistics, medical facilities and the Netherlands’ relationship with the local authorities – also has a bearing on the possibilities of providing consular assistance and its eventual scope.

Situations can arise where little to no consular assistance can be offered, at least in the short term. One example would be in the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster. If so, this will be communicated via the aforementioned information channels. Trends in Consular Affairs

Dutch nationals’ own role When Dutch nationals act irresponsibly and/or inappropriately abroad, there are consequences; just like in the Netherlands. When we refer to irresponsible conduct, we are talking about not only actual crimes like hooliganism and vandalism, but also antisocial behaviour more generally. ‘Inappropriate conduct’ could also include abusive treatment of consular staff, or endangering oneself by ignoring clear instructions and advice.

The guiding principle is the same for every Dutch national, wherever they are in the world: people are responsible for their own behaviour. And every Dutch national must deal with the consequences of their actions (for instance, being prosecuted or held liable).

Irresponsible conduct can also have a far-reaching effect on the image of the Netherlands and Dutch nationals abroad. As a result, it has an impact not only on the persons themselves, but also on other Dutch nationals and Netherlands’ political, social and economic interests. This is the case whether we are talking about spur-of-the-moment hooliganism by Dutch football supporters or widely publicised crimes that spark public outcry. In such cases, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can respond to and condemn the actions, both publicly and through political and diplomatic channels, in the interests of the Netherlands.

| 42 | Consular staff must be treated with respect. There is no place in Dutch society for abusive or inappropriate behaviour towards those providing assistance. This also applies abroad. Behaving irresponsibly in such instances can lead to the denial of consular services, either temporarily or permanently.

Finally, Dutch nationals should refrain from actions that would put them in harm’s way. By willingly seeking out risks and ignoring instructions, Dutch nationals abroad can be responsible for putting themselves in danger. Travelling to conflict zones or knowingly entering areas marked red on travel advice maps are examples of this. In such cases, the level of consular assistance provided may be reduced, except for people who do vital work in such regions (such as emergency workers and journalists). In addition, assistance costs may be recouped from people who have knowingly put themselves in danger. Appendix 1

Nationality and dual nationals There are many countries around the world whose legal systems do not recognise dual nationality. When a holder of dual nationality has the nationality of the country in question, the authorities there simply ignore the other nationality. Asylum seekers who have been granted a residence permit for the Netherlands and then get into difficulties with the local authorities during a trip to their country of origin can also have difficulty obtaining consular assistance. The Netherlands respects the position taken by countries of origin in this regard. Naturally, the stance of the country in question can have an impact on the possibility of obtaining consular assistance or the extent to which such assistance can be offered. Though the Netherlands must respect the policies of the local authorities, even if they form an obstacle to consular assistance, it will nevertheless continue to offer any assistance possible from a humanitarian perspective, through quiet diplomacy.

Hospital admissions Every year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs receives several hundred requests for assistance from Dutch nationals around the globe relating to hospital admissions. If the hospitalised person is not insured for healthcare costs incurred abroad, the Ministry will approach the emergency support centre of the person’s insurance company and put them in contact with the person and the hospital as soon as possible. In many cases, the assistance stops there. In cases where a Dutch national is uninsured or not fully insured, the Ministry often has to provide financial mediation (see ‘Financial mediation’). | 43 |

Deaths Each year, around 1,800 Dutch nationals die abroad. In most cases, no request for consular assistance is made. However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does provides assistance in several hundred cases. In certain situations, the Ministry will ensure that the Dutch police inform the next of kin in the Netherlands of the person’s death. If the costs of transporting the person’s remains to the Netherlands are covered (either by the person’s insurance policy or by their family), a funeral director in the foreign country and an international funeral director based in the Netherlands will coordinate the repatriation, in collaboration with a Dutch emergency support centre. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will issue a laissez-passer for repatriation purposes, unless one has already been provided by the local authorities.

If the deceased person’s insurance does not cover the costs of repatriation, the Ministry will offer financial mediation (see ‘Financial mediation’) or advise on alternatives, such as burial or cremation in the country in question. The Ministry can also help the family inform the local authorities of their decision to waive the right of disposition of the remains in such cases. If a medical report, autopsy report or police report has been drawn up, the deceased person’s relatives can ask the Ministry to request a copy from the local authorities. The relatives will be required to pay costs for such a request, under the Consular Fees Act. Trends in Consular Affairs

In principle, the same consular assistance is provided in cases of death as a result of crime (negligent homicide, manslaughter, murder and serious assault resulting in death) as for death due to natural causes. If there is good reason to do so – for instance, if the local authorities are not making sufficient efforts – the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can use its diplomatic contacts (mostly via quiet diplomacy) to encourage the authorities to carry out an investigation or take other action. The Ministry will then subsequently monitor the situation.

Psychologically distressed/destitute people In the Netherlands, many municipalities face issues relating to psychologically distressed people. Often, these people have done nothing illegal, but exhibit antisocial behaviour or simply require assistance. The same issues occur abroad too. When a psychologically distressed person with Dutch nationality encounters problems abroad, it is often the person themselves or the local authorities who ask the Dutch government for assistance.

Psychologically distressed people often find themselves in very difficult situations abroad. They may be psychiatric patients who have no fixed place of residence, no access to the right medication and no money. Or they may be patients who have been admitted to a psychiatric clinic abroad where living conditions are poor. It is also a common occurrence in such cases for family or friends in the Netherlands to be unable or unwilling to make money available so the person can be treated abroad | 44 | or repatriated.

Airlines sometimes refuse to transport psychiatric patients without sufficient supervision. Finally, the people themselves often don’t wish to receive treatment or return to the Netherlands. Communicating with such people can be very difficult, and it can be difficult to understand what sort of help they require. Experience shows that providing consular assistance to psychologically distressed people is a labour-intensive, time-consuming and expensive process that does not always lead to a satisfactory result.

In general, local authorities abroad are responsible for providing medical treatment to psychiatric patients or psychosocial care to psychologically distressed people, regardless of their nationality. In the Netherlands, the Dutch authorities also look after foreign nationals requiring acute care in the Netherlands. Even when the aim is to have a person repatriated to the Netherlands, primary responsibility remains with the local authorities. The 1953 European Convention on Social and Medical Assistance sets out agreements about repatriation.

In cases of voluntary repatriation, it is important to ascertain whether or not the person is sufficiently insured. If so, the insurer’s emergency support centre can arrange many of the things relating to the person’s treatment and, possibly supervised, repatriation. If not, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will often have to provide financial mediation (see ‘Financial mediation’). HoofdstukAppendix titel 1

If the person does not wish to be repatriated, only the local authorities can force their repatriation, by deciding to expel them. Generally, in order for the local authorities to do this, the doctor treating the person, in consultation with a Dutch doctor if possible, must issue a medical certificate stating that it is necessary for the person to return to the Netherlands for medical reasons. If the local authorities want to expel the person – for instance because their visa has expired – it is usually possible to have them admitted to a psychiatric hospital in the Netherlands under the fast-track procedure covered by the Psychiatric Hospitals (Committals) Act (BOPZ). In such cases, a psychiatrist must examine the person after their arrival in the Netherlands and issue a medical certificate. If no psychiatrist is available another doctor can carry out the examination and issue the certificate. The certificate must show that the criteria for involuntary admission have been satisfied. The mayor of the municipality where the person arrives in the Netherlands must then order their detention. It may be the case that a Dutch national is no longer registered as living in a Dutch municipality. If so, the first thing is to find a municipality in the Netherlands that is prepared to accept them.

In this instance the task and added value of consular assistance lies primarily in communicating with the various parties, both here and abroad, and in facilitating the processes of foreign and Dutch care institutions. The provision of consular assistance in such cases is often less than satisfactory at present, because there is a lack of facilities for this specific category of vulnerable Dutch nationals, both in the Netherlands and abroad. In the period ahead, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will work hard to draw up an integrated approach, together with national and international partners (ranging | 45 | from government bodies to charities). Under this approach each party will carry out its share of the tasks at hand and the consular assistance provided will be proportionate and effective.

Financial mediation One common type of consular assistance is financial mediation. Financial mediation is often required when people are uninsured in the event of hospitalisation or death. But it can also be needed when people fall victim to robbery or in order to repatriate psychologically distressed people. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will only act as a financial mediator between parties. It can cannot donate, lend or advance money. This means that financial mediation is limited to establishing contact with other parties that can do one of these things. When someone is found who is prepared to transfer money, the transfer usually takes place via commercial parties specialising in international payments, without the involvement of the Ministry. Dutch insurers’ emergency support centres can also request a specific type of financial mediation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the Ministry acting as a guarantor. This might be the case in instances where a foreign hospital will not accept a Dutch insurers’ emergency support centre as a guarantor but will allow the Dutch government to act as one. Trends in Consular Affairs

Loss/theft/robbery Thanks to modern communication technology and international payment systems, Dutch nationals abroad whose possessions have been lost or stolen are increasingly able to resolve the situation with help from friends and family at home, without requesting assistance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, if a Dutch national no longer has the travel document needed for them to return to the Netherlands, they will need to go to a Dutch representation abroad to obtain a replacement (see ‘Emergency travel documents’).

Missing persons Each year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs receives several reports of missing Dutch nationals abroad. However, this does not always mean that the people are actually missing. Maybe they have no mobile phone reception, or they have been arrested or they simply might not want to let people know where they are. When there is a suspicion that someone is missing abroad, family or friends in the Netherlands should file a report with the Dutch police. The police can then contact local enforcement agencies. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs can request updates from the local authorities and offer assistance via the Dutch embassy or consulate-general in the region. For instance, it may offer to share Dutch policing expertise and send staff to assist with the investigation. However, neither the Ministry of Foreign Affairs nor its representations have any investigative powers abroad.

| 46 | Special cases A number of cases deserve special attention from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs due to their significant impact on Dutch nationals and Dutch interests. These include cases where a Dutch national is the victim of a violent crime such as a terrorist attack or an abduction, where there are threats to national security or individual safety, or where a person’s freedom is being restricting by their family (notably, through forced marriage, abandonment or child abduction). In all cases, the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the perpetrators in their country, in keeping with the principle of sovereignty (see also: ‘The course of justice abroad’). In addition, the local authorities have the knowledge and resources to allow them to take action on the ground, and the Netherlands will not interfere with this.

Attacks If a terrorist or other type of attack occurs abroad, Dutch central government must ascertain as quickly and accurately as possible whether there are Dutch nationals among the victims. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ missions abroad work hard to do this. In the Netherlands, the Ministry will maintain contact with the families of potential victims and – depending on the number of Dutch victims – with the designated emergency support centre, the National Crisis Centre and the National Coordinator for Security and Counterterrorism. Appendix 1

Kidnappings A certain level of confidentiality always applies when investigating and resolving kidnapping cases. If a Dutch national is kidnapped while abroad, the situation can be made more complex by the high expectations of the kidnappers regarding the ‘value’ of a foreign national and any additional (mainly political) demands the kidnappers may have. This can be further exacerbated by media attention. That is why the Netherlands observes the following principle: these cases fall under the jurisdiction of the country where they take place, meaning that local authorities investigate them.

The Dutch government does not negotiate with kidnappers and does not pay ransoms. However, the government will do everything else possible to ensure the release of Dutch nationals held abroad. In the interest of kidnap victims and of the security of all Dutch nationals abroad, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs never comments on international kidnapping cases.

‘Returnees’ and other threats to national security Consular staff are often the first to receive information about the movements of people who could pose a threat to national security. This includes Dutch nationals who have travelled to conflict zones abroad with jihadist motives. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides no consular assistance to Dutch nationals in such areas. If they contact a Dutch representation in a neighbouring country, an assessment can be made as to whether assistance will be provided and if so, what this will entail. The Netherlands cannot and will not help Dutch nationals evade justice in the countries concerned. | 47 | Information about people who may pose a threat to national security is shared – with due regard for privacy legislation – with the relevant central government agencies.

Family issues Consular assistance in the event of family issues is provided within the same parameters as any other form of consular assistance. These issues, which include forced marriage, abandonment and child abduction, are complex, primarily because victims are vulnerable and because expectations concerning assistance can be unrealistic in light of international agreements and/or local laws. Often, these cases involve minors, and providing assistance to these vulnerable Dutch nationals – responsibility for whom rests with their parents, guardians and/or the authorities – always requires a tailored approach.

Forced marriage and abandonment A forced marriage means that one or both parties to the marriage concluded it against their will, as a result of coercion, threats and/or violence. It means one or both parties had little say in the matter and their refusal was not accepted. Victims not only have to deal with being unable to choose their own partner, but also with being forced to marry, often before they reach the age of 18. The Dutch government considers all child marriages to be forced marriages. Trends in Consular Affairs

Abandonment refers to a situation where a spouse or family member(s) send one or more family members abroad (often back to the family’s country of origin) and leave them there for a long period of time. The victim’s travel documents and/or residence permit is taken away from them to prevent their return to the Netherlands.

When providing consular assistance in cases of forced marriage and abandonment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs works closely with a range of actors, notably the National Expertise Centre on Forced Marriage and Abandonment (LKHA) and the National Centre of Expertise on Honour-based Violence (LEC). Experience shows that providing consular assistance to victims of forced marriage and abandonment abroad can be made more difficult by local laws and by the fact that victims often hold dual nationality. These laws may be vastly different from Dutch laws, particularly as regards minors and women. This is why the Netherlands works closely with other countries – both within the EU and elsewhere – that encounter similar problems.

In the past year, central government has sought, through its Forced Marriage Unit, to enhance and pool its expertise on forced marriage and abandonment in order to increase effectiveness. In the period ahead, forced marriage and abandonment will be a priority of consular policy, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continuing to take active steps in this regard. This will be done in collaboration with other ministries and international bodies, so as to prevent new cases from | 48 | occurring and to ensure that victims continue to receive optimal assistance.

International child abduction International child abduction occurs when a child under the age of 16 is taken to or forced to stay in a country other than the Netherlands, without the consent of all persons or agencies with parental responsibility for the child. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs may have a role to play if the child has been taken across the Dutch border, regardless of the child’s nationality. If the child and/or one of its parents is a Dutch national, normal consular assistance can be provided.

The Ministry works together the Central Authority for International Children’s Issues – which is part of the Ministry of Justice and Security – and the specialist Dutch International Child Abduction Centre in such cases. At the Central Authority’s request, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will mediate in cases involving countries that are not party to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction in order to ensure the return of abducted children to the Netherlands. The Ministry cannot mediate when children have been taken to a country that is party to the Hague Convention, unless the Central Authority has good reason to request this and the Ministry agrees that it has a consular role to play. Appendix 1

If the parent whose child has been taken is a Dutch national and has taken action in the country concerned to have the child legally returned to the Netherlands and asks for assistance from the Dutch mission, the mission can help. It can provide information on local organisations that could be of assistance and on lawyers practising family law if the parent wishes to initiate legal proceedings. The Ministry cannot advise the parent on what course of action to take. The choice is theirs alone.

Reciprocal consular diplomacy Other countries often ask the Netherlands to help them provide consular assistance to their nationals if they encounter problems in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This can include providing consular assistance to prisoners from that country or evacuating their nationals from the Kingdom following a hurricane, for instance. The Dutch government helps ensure countries can provide such consular assistance.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs works on the principle of reciprocity in this regard, meaning that it expects other governments to allow Dutch nationals to receive consular assistance while in their countries. This reciprocity is governed by a range of legal frameworks, from international obligations set out in the Vienna Conventions, to EU legislation on privacy and data protection.

Other cases and aftercare The reality of consular services sometimes defies the imagination, and it cannot always be divided | 49 | into neat categories. But even in non-standard situations, consular assistance is provided within the realms of what is possible. These situations can take a variety of forms: from aftercare relating to high-profile cases from the past (for example, murdered journalists; kidnap victims; survivors of disasters and crises) to helping to maintain Dutch war graves around the world.

Prisoners One special type of consular assistance is that provided to Dutch prisoners abroad. Since 2011 the government has sent a separate annual report to parliament on this issue. For the latest, see: House of Representatives, 2017-2018, 30 010, no. 39, 19 July 2018. From 2019 this report will be incorporated into the annual ‘Trends in Consular Affairs’ publication. Trends in Consular Affairs

Under article 36 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, the local authorities must inform the relevant representation without delay when a foreign national is arrested. As soon as a Dutch prisoner abroad has expressed a wish to have contact with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, they will receive consular assistance.

All Dutch prisoners abroad are eligible to receive standard assistance comprising written information about consular assistance and about other bodies involved in Dutch policy on prisoners abroad. They are also entitled to a visit from a consular officer. They will receive assistance to help them prepare for reintegration into Dutch society and, where possible and relevant, legal advice; both of these are provided by independent, specialist organisations which receive grants for this purpose.

In addition to the standard assistance, there is also additional assistance for prisoners who need more customised help in countries where detention conditions are sub-standard (‘countries of concern’).

The tools for providing assistance to Dutch prisoners abroad are tailored to meet prisoners’ needs. This allows the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to focus its attention on the specific role reserved for the government when it comes to assisting Dutch prisoners abroad. This includes contacting local authorities to help ensure a fair trial, humane detention conditions, and the same rights and facilities | 50 | for Dutch prisoners as for other prisoners. It also includes arranging additional assistance in cases involving the death penalty.

Standard assistance • Detailed written information on consular assistance and other bodies involved in providing assistance to Dutch prisoners abroad. • One visit from a consular officer from the embassy or consulate-general; phone and/or written contact where necessary. • Written and/or phone contact between a consular officer from the Ministry and a contact person in the Netherlands (designated by the prisoner). The consular officer provides the contact person with relevant information. • Contact with the local authorities concerning their responsibility towards Dutch prisoners, with a particular focus on the need for close observation and certain specific measures in cases of at-risk prisoners. • Services (including visits) relating to reintegration and legal advice offered by third parties that receive government grants for this purpose. • A quarterly magazine providing information on consular assistance, reintegration, legal issues and social and psychological care. This is also provided by a third party that receives a government grant for this purpose. Appendix 1

Additional assistance (tailored) • Follow-up visits by embassy or consulate-general staff (up to around four visits per year). • A monthly allowance of €30 to help with living costs (or necessary items worth approximately the same amount). • A budget to pay for essential medical care for sick prisoners in cases where the local authorities cannot provide the necessary medical care, and neither the prisoner concerned nor the family has the means to cover the costs. • Social and psychological care (including visits) provided by third parties that receive government grants for this purpose.

Vulnerable prisoners As part of its efforts to provide tailored consular assistance to Dutch prisoners abroad, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs pays particular attention to vulnerable prisoners. These prisoners may be vulnerable due to a range of factors including age, illness, addiction and discrimination. However, their vulnerable status does not necessarily mean the assistance they receive will be any different. If there is enough awareness on the part of the custodial institution, or if the individual in question has an adequate social safety net, normal assistance may be enough.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with other organisations involved in providing assistance to | 51 | prisoners abroad, is considering how to identify vulnerable prisoners as early as possible and whether the consular assistance provided to vulnerable prisoners should be handled differently in order to minimise the risks to this group.

Proactively providing information on WETS/WOTS The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informs Dutch prisoners abroad about the Criminal Judgments and Probation Decisions (Mutual Recognition and Enforcement) Act (WETS) and the Enforcement of Criminal Judgments (Transfer) Act (WOTS). Together, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Justice and Security are looking into way of proactively informing Dutch prisoners abroad about what this legislation entails, with a view to increasing the number of sentence transfers and conversions.

Legal assistance Dutch policy requires prisoners to take responsibility for arranging their own legal representation. The local authorities have a duty to provide a lawyer if the prisoner does not have the resources to hire one. Trends in Consular Affairs

A person must be informed about the options for legal assistance and the associated conditions as soon as possible following their arrest. The information pack that Dutch prisoners abroad receive from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also provides information in this regard. Legal assistance can be paid for in a variety of ways: the person in question or their family/friends might have the funds to pay for it, or failing that, they can ask the local authorities to provide free legal assistance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not provide or finance legal assistance. One exception is cases involving capital punishment (see ‘Death penalty’) and legal advice provided by the independent organisation that receives a government grant for this purpose.

The course of justice abroad On the basis of the international principle of national sovereignty and the independence of the judiciary, the Netherlands cannot interfere with the course of justice in cases involving Dutch nationals abroad. Conversely, these principles mean that the Netherlands does not accept foreign governments’ interference in the course of justice in the Netherlands. As a result, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs has no scope to assess legal proceedings abroad – or have them assessed by another party. This includes procedural aspects, such as procedural errors.

The consular assistance provided to Dutch prisoners abroad therefore does not breach the principle of national sovereignty or the independence of the judiciary of the country in question. However, it | 52 | may benefit the Dutch national in question by helping to speed up and improve proceedings. The following assistance is provided:

I. Legal advice Since 2012 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has provided funding for legal advice via an independent, specialised legal organisation. The Ministry provides grants for the express purpose of assisting Dutch prisoners abroad. Dutch prisoners abroad are advised on how to deal with the local justice system – for example, if it is advisable to launch an appeal or submit a request to be transferred to the Netherlands. Appendix 1

II. Monitoring the legal procedure The Ministry of Foreign Affairs can monitor the legal procedure in cases involving Dutch prisoners abroad. However, given that there are hundreds of new cases involving Dutch prisoners abroad each year, the Ministry does not have the capacity to follow all of them, and for their part, consular officers lack the specialist legal training or the resources needed. If a Dutch prisoner abroad would like certain aspects of their case to be looked at in detail, the Ministry will normally refer them to a legal specialist.

III. Investigating the legal procedure Since 1998 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs sometimes asks an independent lawyer to assess whether due process in a foreign country has been followed in the abstract, in the interest of ensuring a fair trial. The lawyer in question will assess whether the legal procedure followed in the case in question corresponds to generally accepted principles of law. These include the principle that both sides of the case must be heard, a functional lawyer referral service, the right to have a lawyer present during police questioning, equal rights for the defence and the prosecution, access to procedural documents, the right to examine witnesses, a reasonably prompt handling of the case, an independent and impartial court/judge and administration of justice at several levels of jurisdiction. Some principles of law are set out in conventions, such as in article 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

An independent lawyer is only called upon in cases where there are reasonable doubts about | 53 | whether due process has been followed. Such doubts can be raised by the embassy or consulate itself, but it is generally the Dutch national’s own lawyer, family or volunteers from organisations that provide assistance for Dutch prisoners abroad (such as the Dutch Probation Service) who report doubts to the embassy or consulate.

An assessment of a case commissioned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs never addresses substantive matters. Moreover, for procedural and practical reasons, the scope of such an assessment is always limited because the Ministry (and the independent lawyer) does not have access to all procedural documents. Only the parties to the proceedings have access to these documents.

The lawyer carrying out the assessment will set out their findings in a written report, which can be shared with the Dutch prisoner and their lawyer. Any findings that are relevant must then be looked at and brought before the courts by the prisoner and their lawyer. This is only natural, as it is the prisoner and their lawyer who are responsible for mounting a defence and the court which is responsible for deciding on matters of guilt or innocence. It is up to the prisoner and their lawyer to raise issues regarding both substantive and procedural aspects of the case. The Dutch government is never a party to the proceedings in such cases. Trends in Consular Affairs

IV. Bringing a lack of due process to the attention of the local authorities If there are strong indications (reasonable doubt) that due process has not been followed, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can raise the issue with the authorities of the country in question. Initially, this is always done via diplomatic channels, in the form of a diplomatic note or a démarche to the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If this proves unsuccessful, a decision can be made to express concern at political level.

In neither case should this be seen as direct interference in the course of justice, but rather as a request to the authorities to take a closer look at a case and/or speed up and improve legal proceedings. This gives the authorities in the country the opportunity to correct any issues themselves.

In addition to monitoring the course of justice, the Netherlands can also monitor the conditions prisoners are held in. As in the case of doubts surrounding due process, the Netherlands can also call local authorities to account when detention conditions are sub-standard and remind them of their international obligations under the relevant conventions. The Netherlands will raise the issue of inhumane treatment with the authorities if it is clear that Dutch prisoners are being treated worse than other prisoners in comparable circumstances. In instances where prisoners from other EU member states are affected, action will be taken not only bilaterally, but also in collaboration with | 54 | the member states concerned, or even at EU-wide level. However, ultimately, responsibility for the prisoner and the power to ameliorate conditions in a prison as a whole (or for a particular prisoner) lies with the local authorities.

V. Supporting requests for a pardon or clemency Subject to certain conditions, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can support requests for a pardon from prisoners or their lawyers, often for humanitarian reasons (as in cases involving capital punishment). The decision is always taken on an ad hoc basis, with due regard for the specific circumstances of the case in question. Such support is, however, contingent on the agreement of the prisoner themselves. This approach also applies to clemency requests – such as conditional release or commutation requests. Appendix 1

Death penalty Cases involving capital punishment constitute an exception to the Netherlands’ general reluctance to finance legal assistance and interfere with the course of justice abroad. However, in such cases, the focus remains on the sentence handed down; not the question of guilt or innocence. The Netherlands is a vocal opponent of the death penalty in all countries. Together with its EU partners, the Netherlands promotes abolition of the death penalty, or at least a moratorium on its use. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will do all it can to prevent this outcome in cases involving Dutch nationals. In these cases, as in others, the Netherlands will not interfere in the course of justice itself, but will call the state in question to account with regard to the sentence handed down. In all cases where a Dutch national is sentenced to death, the Netherlands will call on the state not to enforce the sentence.

In addition to the legal advice provided as part of the normal consular assistance to Dutch prisoners abroad (see: ‘Legal advice’), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can decide to finance legal assistance in individual cases. The provision of such support, which is done in coordination with the House of Representatives, is set out in the letter to parliament from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of 11 April 2011, 32 500 V, no. 165. In addition to funding legal assistance, the government may ask a Dutch law firm specialising in death penalty cases to advise local lawyers.

In the period ahead, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will explore whether, in addition to financing | 55 | legal assistance in cases involving the death penalty, this form of assistance could also be extended to cases where there is a threat of other serious human rights violations.

Population affairs

As regards population affairs the decision was made to focus on areas where the provision of services by central government is part of its official duties or has added value. That is why the missions’ role as notary and registrar is being phased out where possible. The same applies to tasks relating to the legalisation of foreign documents for use in the Netherlands. This allows the missions to focus on core government tasks, specifically on issuing travel and identity documents. Trends in Consular Affairs

Travel and identity documents The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for issuing travel documents to Dutch nationals living abroad. The Ministry also issues emergency documents to Dutch nationals abroad whose travel documents have been lost or stolen, so that they can return home. The rules on issuing passports abroad are set out in the Passport Act and the Passport Regulations (Embassies and Consulates).

In most countries Dutch nationals can apply for a travel document at the embassy in the country’s capital and/or at a consulate-general. Non-resident Dutch nationals can now also submit their passport application at one of several border municipalities or at the Haarlemmermeer municipal desk at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport while visiting the Netherlands.

180,000 Total number of travel 160,000 documents issued by or 140,000 on behalf of the Ministry 120,000 of Foreign Affairs 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 | 56 | 20,000 0 2014 2015 2016 2017

Over the next few years central government wishes to bring its travel document services closer to the public and to digitalise these services as far as possible without compromising security and quality.

Following a successful pilot project in Edinburgh, the option to submit passport applications via external service providers (ESPs) will be rolled out at other locations around the world. In selecting these locations, the Ministry took account of the wishes of parliament and carefully considered which cities would entail the greatest possible added value for Dutch nationals abroad. Relevant factors included the distance to the nearest professionally staffed Dutch mission with a consular desk, the distance to the Netherlands and the possibility of offering an additional premium service outside regular opening hours. In 2018/2019 ESP passport service will be expanded to London and an additional location in the Midlands (UK), Edmonton (Canada), Perth (Australia), Chicago (US) and an as yet undetermined city in Spain. Appendix 1

Missions in several countries around the world, including Australia, France, Spain, Turkey and the United States, already use mobile fingerprinting devices for off-site passport applications. Central government intends to start using mobile fingerprinting devices on a more regular basis, to supplement the existing mission network and the extra ESP locations. Consular staff members will be released from other duties to travel with the device to various countries around the world and allow Dutch nationals abroad to apply for travel documents closer to home. Where possible these ‘mobile consular brigades’ will also provide other central government services.

At the same time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, which is responsible for the policy on travel documents, is reviewing the options for digitising the application process for travel documents as much as possible. Due to the requirement laid down in the Passport Act that applications must be submitted in person, a fully digital process is not an option at this time. One important reason for this is security, as the House of Representative was recently informed. Finally, this year saw the launch of the passport tool on netherlandsworldwide.nl. With the help of this tool, applicants can create an online personal checklist of the documents they need to submit. As a result, they can come to their appointments well prepared, and applications can be processed faster.

Emergency documents | 57 | If a regular travel document is lost or stolen, a temporary replacement document is sometimes urgently needed. All consular missions, including those headed by honorary consuls are authorised to accept applications for a laissez-passer if a Dutch travel document has been lost or stolen abroad. In order to verify the applicant’s personal details, laissez-passer applications submitted to honorary consuls are always processed in consultation with the relevant embassy or consulate-general, the CSO and in some cases the municipality where the original travel document was issued. This means that a replacement travel document cannot always be issued immediately and the applicant may have to wait. In countries where there is no Dutch representation, Dutch nationals can apply for an emergency travel document at the embassy or consulate of another EU country. Trends in Consular Affairs

Voting while abroad The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is committed to streamlining the voting process for Dutch nationals abroad. Together with the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations and the municipality of The Hague, which is responsible for Dutch voters abroad, we are working to modernise this service. There are now fewer steps involved in casting a vote, having it sent to a postal vote polling station and then counted. The government is also trying to extend the term for certifying election results. The Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations will inform parliament about this soon. The number of postal vote polling stations at embassies will be reduced further, given their limited added value in times of highly reliable international postal services. It will however still be possible to send or hand in postal votes to embassies. The Minister of Foreign Affairs will also retain the power to open postal vote polling stations. Embassies will forward postal votes by courier to The Hague, where they will be counted at the municipality of The Hague’s postal vote polling station. In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will look into the pros and cons of setting up regular polling stations at embassies in countries with a large Dutch community, as agreed at the meeting of 17 October 2018 between the foreign minister and the relevant parliamentary committees regarding the network of missions and consular services. The Ministry will also consider the options for more active efforts to register voters, increase turnout, eliminate obstacles and solve the various kinds of problems faced by voters around the world. An active contribution will be made to the objective set out in the coalition agreement to make it easier for Dutch nationals abroad to exercise their right to vote. | 58 |

Other matters that fall under Population Affairs

Consular certificates There are many reasons why Dutch nationals abroad might require a consular certificate. They may, for instance, need to submit one to the Social Insurance Bank (SVB), a pension fund, a Dutch municipality or the authorities in a foreign country. Consular certificates can be issued by an embassy or consulate. Dutch nationals abroad may apply for a certificate of residence, a certificate of life, a certificate of Dutch nationality, a declaration of marital status and a certificate of the capacity to contract marriage. In specific circumstances an embassy or consulate may also issue a visa support letter to allow Dutch nationals abroad to apply for a visa or residence permit and extend their stay in a country.

DNA tests Occasionally it is necessary as part of legal or other procedures in the Netherlands to demonstrate a genetic link between two or more people. The results of DNA tests carried out by laboratories outside the EU are not always accepted by Dutch courts and government bodies. Dutch missions abroad can therefore be asked to assist. If this is the case, a consular staff member is responsible for identifying the person in question with due care and overseeing the taking of a DNA sample. Appendix 1

Most of these DNA tests are carried out in connection with family reunification cases, i.e. applications for an authorisation for temporary stay (MVV) by the family members of refugees, in which there is insufficient documentary evidence to reliably demonstrate a legal or biological family relationship. A DNA test may also be required to determine a passport applicant’s nationality or to establish legal paternity.

Legalisation Legalisation is the process of making documents suitable for use in another country. The legalisation sticker or stamp shows only that a document has been issued by a competent authority. Legalisation says nothing about the accuracy of document’s contents.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is seeking to phase out its role in the legalisation offoreign documents for use in the Netherlands as much as possible. Already, the Ministry is not involved in legalising documents from the 117 countries that are party to the Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents (Apostille Convention, 1961). The Convention provides for a simplified procedure that makes official documents suitable for use in another country. An official body in the country where the document was issued affixes an apostille, i.e. a stamp or sticker with a standard format, to the document allowing it to be used elsewhere. The missions currently still legalise documents issued in 40 countries. In 40 other countries this practice was discontinued on 1 January 2016 in consultation with visa and immigration system | 59 | partners, because the apostille offered a false sense of security. In light of the limited added value, the Ministry, in consultation with the other parties involved, intends to phase out this practice in the 40 countries where foreign documents are still legalised at the missions. The legalisation of foreign documents issued by an embassy or consulate in the Netherlands, a service currently provided by the Consular Service Centre (CDC) at the Ministry in The Hague, will also be phased out.

The CDC will however continue to legalise Dutch documents for use abroad for as long as other countries require documents to be legalised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In certain cases, the CDC can currently mediate for Dutch nationals who want to request documents from abroad and/or have documents legalised abroad. Mediation can take anywhere between eight and twelve months and costs €131 per document. Due to the long processing time, the high costs to the applicant and the fact that the internet allows members of the public to request such documents from abroad with increasing ease, this service is being phased out. As of 1 June 2018 the CDC no longer processes mediation requests relating to documents from other EU countries.

Dutch nationals abroad can contact a Dutch embassy or consulate to have their signature legalised. This form of legalisation confirms that the signature on a document is genuinely that of the person identified in the document as having signed it. Finally, embassies and consulates can help Dutch nationals abroad by certifying that photocopies of Dutch identity documents match the original. Trends in Consular Affairs

Civic integration exam Anyone who wishes to acquire Dutch nationality through naturalisation must be integrated in Dutch society. They must be able to speak, read, write and understand Dutch and manage life in Dutch society. In order to demonstrate this they must pass the civic integration exam. Once an individual has obtained a civil integration certificate and meets the other conditions for naturalisation, they can submit an application for naturalisation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for overseeing civic integration exams at the missions. To this end it works with the Education Executive Agency (DUO), part of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science. Responsibility for policy on civic integration exams lies with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment.

If the civic integration requirement has been met in full or in part by other means or if the individual belongs to an exempted category, the embassy or consulate-general can pass on a request to DUO to determine what requirements remain.

Naturalisation Once an individual has met the civic integration requirement, they can submit an application for naturalisation at a Dutch embassy or consulate-general. Together with the applicant, the embassy or | 60 | consulate-general then checks that all the conditions have been met and helps the applicant submit their application, e.g. by informing them what documents are required. If the applicant has met all the conditions for naturalisation, the embassy or consulate-general submits its advisory opinion to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), together with the application for naturalisation. The embassy or consulate-general only offers an advisory opinion. Decisions on applications for naturalisation are taken by the IND.

Verification Legalisation does not confirm that a document’s content is correct. Sometimes additional inquiries are necessary to verify the accuracy of the content. Prior to 1 January 2016, Dutch administrative authorities such as municipalities and the IND could submit foreign documents to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for verification. The missions then had the content of the document verified in the country in question. Since the missions merely acted as a conduit in these situations, the service was no longer provided from 1 January 2016. Municipalities and the IND now contract a local party themselves for verification. The missions’ role is limited to their specific added value, namely providing, where possible, an overview of reliable investigators in the country in question. Appendix 1

Foreign official documents Foreign official documents can be registered in the Register of Births, Deaths, Marriages and Registered Partnerships at the municipality of The Hague’s Foreign Documents Department. This can be done for birth certificates, marriage certificates, certificates of registered partnership or death certificates. The process of registration converts the foreign certificate into a Dutch certificate, which has the advantage that an official copy or extract can be requested from the municipality of The Hague instead of from abroad.

The Ministry’s role is limited to providing information and referring people to the municipality of The Hague.

Notarial services The missions (with the exception of Baghdad) no longer act as notaries. Some missions still keep a register of notarial acts, but no new notarial acts have been executed at the missions since 1 January 2012. If a Dutch national requires a notarial act to be executed, they can in most cases use the services of a local notary or a notary in the Netherlands.

Registration of births and deaths The number of missions with the role of registrar has been reduced to 11. These registrars’ powers have also been limited to drawing up birth and death certificates. However, a large number of | 61 | missions, if so requested, still issue copies or extracts of official documents drawn up in the past and add new information to existing documents.

Address tracing Each year Dutch representations abroad, on behalf of the Education Executive Agency (DUO), trace the addresses of several hundred former students who have not paid back their student loans. Dozens of addresses are also traced each year at the request of other government and semi- government bodies.

Option procedure for becoming a Dutch national Each year around 700 applications are submitted to the missions by individuals who wish to acquire Dutch nationality by means of the option procedure. Those eligible to apply under this procedure include individuals who were born before 1 January 1985 to a Dutch mother and a non-Dutch father, and the children of such individuals. Certain other conditions must also be met. The applicant must provide a statement about their Dutch origins, substantiated with various documents, depending on their situation. The CSO in The Hague confirms the statement, after which the embassy or consulate- general presents the confirmation at a ceremony. After this the applicant is a Dutch national.

Obtaining foreign documents requested by the Child Protection Board Once a court decision has been presented and the consular fee paid, the Consular Service Centre (CDC) can under certain conditions mediate in obtaining foreign documents and having them legalised. Trends in Consular Affairs

Social assistance payments to Dutch nationals abroad The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is instrumental in processing social assistance payments to around 140 Dutch nationals abroad. Prior to 1996, Dutch nationals living abroad could – after satisfying certain conditions, including a means test – be eligible for social assistance pursuant to section 82 of the Social Assistance Act as it applied at the time. Since 1 January 1996, when the Act was amended, no new applications have been accepted, but payments to existing claimants can still be extended. The statutory basis for this regime can be found in section 78h of the Participation Act. At the time of writing the number of claimants per country is as follows. Indonesia 46, Brazil 37, Spain 24 and other countries 33. The Dutch representations in the countries in question are responsible for issuing payments, performing checks on supporting documents and assessing annual requests for extension, in direct consultation with the Social Insurance Bank (SVB).

Provision of services to non-Dutch nationals

Schengen visas The Ministry of Foreign Affairs bears responsibility for making and implementing policy on short- stay visas. A short-stay visa allows a traveller to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days out of any 180-day period. Schengen visa policy is made in accordance with EU legislation, specifically the | 62 | Visa Code (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009).

Ensuring that people can travel smoothly to the Kingdom is of major economic importance, for example for the tourist sector. At the same time, the principle behind the effective use of visas is to safeguard internal security. A careful balance must therefore be struck.

Central government, under primary responsibility of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is focusing on modernising short-stay visa processes and optimising services. In cases where the applicant is required to apply in person, the Netherlands works with private external service providers which serve as a front desk, enabling people to apply in places where there is no Dutch representation. The Netherlands is also developing an online application form, so that in the future applicants will be able to enter their details and upload the necessary documents online. On the basis of data analyses and information from partners in the visa system, a decision is made on whether the application can be fast-tracked or whether an interview or extra document check is needed. Appendix 1

Visa applications

12 %

10 %

8 %

6 %

4 %

2 %

0 % 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Source: European Commission visa statistics 2011-2017

| 63 |

800,000

600,000

400,000

200,000

0 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Issued Denied

Source: European Commission visa statistics 2011-2017 Trends in Consular Affairs

Caribbean visas The Kingdom Visa Act provides the framework for the Caribbean visa policy for the countries and public bodies in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. In 2017 the Kingdom processed approximately 7,000 short-stay visa applications for the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. Here too, ensuring people can travel smoothly, within the challenging infrastructural circumstances on the islands, is of major economic importance, in particular for the tourist sector. An efficient visa process helps support the sector. At the same time, risks must be dealt with effectively. Within the Caribbean visa policy specific attention is given to categories of applicants who may be involved in human trafficking and people smuggling. The risks will be addressed by denying visa applications in certain cases and effectively enforcing sanctions and maintaining alert lists. This is always done in cooperation with partners in the Kingdom.

Authorisation for temporary stay The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues an authorisation for temporary stay (machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf; MVV) if the IND approves an application for single admission and residence (toegangs- en verblijfsprocedure; TEV). In 2017 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued over 63,000 MVVs, an increase of 20% on 2016. This increase was due in part to the growing number of TEV applications by family members of asylum seekers who have been granted residence permits (family reunification – asylum), but the number of regular TEV applications for work or study has also been increasing. | 64 | A non-Dutch national who wants to live in the Netherlands for more than three months will, under certain circumstances, require a residence permit. For non-Dutch nationals who also require a visa to enter the Netherlands, a procedure exists to apply for an MVV and a residence permit simultaneously. This TEV procedure, which is regulated in the Modern Migration Policy Act, can be started by the applicant themselves or by their sponsor, e.g. an employer, educational institution or partner in the Netherlands. If the applicant starts the procedure themselves, they must do so at a Dutch embassy or consulate-general. The rules on issuing MVVs are laid down in the Aliens Act 2000, the Aliens Decree and the Aliens Act 2000 Implementation Guidelines. The Minister of Justice and Security has the power to grant, reject, deny or refuse to process an application for an MVV. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is involved in the MVV procedure as the party that issues the MVV, and if so requested by the IND in family reunification cases, it conducts identification interviews, facilitates the taking of DNA samples and issues laissez-passers. If a TEV application is approved, an MVV is issued to the applicant via the embassy or consulate-general.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs works with the Ministry of Justice and Security and the IND, which bear primary responsibility in this area, to further improve services with regard to the MVV procedure. Aligning with new online initiatives developed by the IND offers scope for modernising and optimising processes at the missions. Appendix 2

The aim is to make the process as customer-friendly as possible for TEV applicants (for example by limiting the number of times they have to travel to the mission in person), without compromising the security and reliability of the Netherlands’ admission procedure.

The civic integration exam abroad Certain categories of non-Dutch nationals are required to pass the civic integration exam abroad before starting the MVV procedure. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for overseeing these exams at the missions. To this end the Ministry works with the Education Executive Agency (DUO). The Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment bears policy responsibility. MVV applicants are required to pass the civic integration exam, showing that they have knowledge of Dutch society and the Dutch language. The civic integration exam abroad consists of three parts: knowledge of Dutch society, spoken Dutch and reading comprehension.

Candidates must take the exam in their country of origin or permanent residence. A candidate’s country of permanent residence is the country where they live and for which they hold a residence permit with a validity of more than three months. If there is no Dutch representation in the candidate’s country of origin, the exam may be taken at the closest Dutch representation. If a candidate cannot take the exam for medical or mental health reasons, an exemption may be requested from the Dutch representation in their country of origin or permanent residence. Candidates must register for the civic integration exam using the registration form on the website. | 65 | A response will be sent by email within five working days to the email address entered on the form. This email includes a payment request. Once DUO has received the payment, the candidate can make an appointment to take the exam. DUO will sent the candidate an email explaining how to make an appointment. This email contains the candidate number which the candidate must state when making an appointment at the Dutch representation.

The exam is taken on a computer and, once completed, is sent to DUO by post. DUO will inform the candidate of the results as soon as possible and in any event within eight weeks. The sections on reading comprehension and Dutch society are assessed automatically by a computer. The spoken Dutch section is graded by certified human assessors. The results are sent by email to the email address which the candidate used to register. DUO will attach a PDF file containing the results email and the results. This PDF file can be printed and submitted with an MVV application. Once a candidate has passed all the sections of the exam, they must submit their MVV application within one year. If they wish to submit their application later than this, they must retake the civic integration exam. Appendix 2 Consular data Appendix 2

1. Consular assistance

Types of consular assistance provided in the past 5 years

Consular advice and support 12.7%

Deaths 17%

Assistance to prisoners 61%

Address tracing 2.2%

Medical assistance 5.5%

Missing persons 1.6%

International child abduction 0.1%

| 67 |

Number of Dutch prisoners abroad 2011-2018

(as of 1 April) 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Total 2,343 2,532 2,333 2,242 2,266 2,033 1,997 1,917 Women 327 332 284 267 248 213 207 174 Men 2,006 2,194 2,046 1,962 2,001 1,820 1,790 1,743 Dual nationality 816 773 659 597 562 407 364 383 Number of Dutch 1,379 1,518 1,572 1,400 1,482 1,322 1,308 1,300 prisoners in Europe Pre-trial detention 761 921 325 325 317 332 332 325 Released on bail 57 55 40 42 41 34 18 9 Under house arrest 18 17 18 15 10 5 4 2 Conditionally released 124 117 85 73 66 47 40 22 Drug-related offences 1,703 1,658 1,435 1,354 1,260 1,151 1,018 923 Drug-related offences 73% 65% 62% 60% 56% 57% 51% 48% (percentage) Trends in Consular Affairs

Consular assistance for Dutch prisoners abroad

Country Mission number of Total prisoners on 1 April 2018 Men Women Drug-related Drug-related (percentage) Dutch nationality Dual nationality Albania Tirana 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 Argentina Buenos Aires 12 8 4 11 1% 9 4 Armenia Tbilisi 1 1 0 0 0% 1 1 Australia Sydney 8 7 1 5 1% 7 1 Austria Vienna 14 11 3 6 1% 12 1 Bangladesh Dhaka 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 Belarus Warsaw 1 1 0 0 0% 1 1 Belgium Brussels 77 76 1 9 1% 70 12 Bolivia Lima 3 3 0 2 0% 3 0 | 68 | Bosnia and Sarajevo 1 1 0 0 0% 1 1 Herzegovina Brazil Brasília 6 5 1 3 0% 6 1 Brazil Rio de Janeiro 5 4 1 5 1% 4 0 Brazil São Paulo 20 16 4 15 2% 20 2 Bulgaria Sofia 9 9 0 6 1% 9 5 Cambodia Bangkok 3 3 0 0 0% 3 0 Canada Ottawa 2 1 1 2 0% 2 0 Canada Toronto 3 2 1 3 0% 3 0 Cape Verde Dakar 6 4 2 4 0% 6 2 Chile Santiago 3 3 0 2 0% 3 0 China Guangzhou 4 3 1 1 0% 3 1 China Beijing 5 5 0 1 0% 5 1 China Shanghai 3 1 2 0 0% 2 0 Colombia Bogatá 19 15 4 15 2% 18 4 Congo (DRC) Kinshasa 2 1 1 0 0% 2 0 Costa Rica San José 2 0 2 2 0% 2 1 Croatia Zagreb 5 5 0 0 0% 3 1 Cuba Havana 2 2 0 0 0% 2 0 Appendix 2

Country Mission number of Total prisoners on 1 April 2018 Men Women Drug-related Drug-related (percentage) Dutch nationality Dual nationality Cyprus Nicosia 3 3 0 2 0% 3 0 Czech Republic Prague 2 2 0 1 0% 2 1 Denmark Copenhagen 4 4 0 2 0% 4 1 Dominican Santo Domingo 60 44 16 37 4% 56 15 Republic Ecuador Lima 5 2 3 5 1% 5 3 Egypt Cairo 11 10 1 3 0% 11 7 Ethiopia Addis Abeba 1 1 0 1 0% 0 0 Finland Helsinki 6 6 0 2 0% 5 1 France Paris 182 167 15 128 14% 172 23 | 69 | French Guiana Cayenne 27 22 5 23 2% 26 8 Georgia Tbilisi 1 1 0 1 0% 1 0 Germany Düsseldorf 447 412 35 213 23% 342 86 Ghana Accra 1 1 0 1 0% 1 1 Greece Athens 8 6 2 7 1% 7 4 Guadeloupe Port of Spain 2 2 0 0 0% 2 0 Honduras San José 1 1 0 0 0% 1 1 Hungary Budapest 7 7 0 3 0% 6 1 Iceland Oslo 3 2 1 3 0% 3 0 India Mumbai 6 6 0 0 0% 6 0 India New Delhi 2 2 0 1 0% 2 1 Indonesia Jakarta 7 7 0 5 1% 7 1 Iran Teheran 3 3 0 0 0% 3 3 Iraq Baghdad 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 Iraq Erbil 2 1 1 0 0% 2 1 Ireland Dublin 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 Israel Tel Aviv 2 2 0 0 0% 2 1 Italy Milan 6 5 1 5 1% 5 1 Trends in Consular Affairs

Country Mission number of Total prisoners on 1 April 2018 Men Women Drug-related Drug-related (percentage) Dutch nationality Dual nationality Italy Rome 11 10 1 2 0% 9 2 Japan Tokyo 5 5 0 5 1% 5 2 Kenya Nairobi 5 4 1 0 0% 5 0 Lebanon Beirut 5 5 0 1 0% 5 1 Luxembourg Luxembourg 7 5 2 4 0% 6 0 Malaysia Kuala Lumpur 2 2 0 0 0% 1 1 Mali Bamako 1 1 0 0 0% 0 0 Malta Valletta 6 5 1 4 0% 6 2 Mexico Mexico City 2 2 0 0 0% 2 0 Morocco Rabat 36 35 1 19 2% 35 32 Myanmar Yangon 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 | 70 | Nepal New Delhi 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 New Zealand Wellington 8 8 0 2 0% 7 1 Norway Oslo 16 15 1 14 2% 16 0 Pakistan Islamabad 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 Panama Panama City 4 4 0 2 0% 3 2 Paraguay Buenos Aires 2 2 0 2 0% 2 0 Peru Lima 42 38 4 40 4% 41 8 Philippines Manilla 9 9 0 1 0% 9 0 Poland Warsaw 7 7 0 4 0% 5 2 Portugal Lisbon 21 19 2 19 2% 10 4 Qatar Doha 1 0 1 1 0% 1 1 Romania Bucharest 6 6 0 5 1% 6 3 Rwanda Kigali 1 1 0 0 0% 1 1 Saudi Arabia Riyadh 1 1 0 1 0% 1 0 Senegal Dakar 1 0 1 1 0% 1 0 Serbia Belgrade 4 4 0 1 0% 3 1 Singapore Singapore 2 2 0 0 0% 2 0 Slovakia Bratislava 3 3 0 2 0% 3 1 Somalia Nairobi 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 Appendix 2

Country Mission number of Total prisoners on 1 April 2018 Men Women Drug-related Drug-related (percentage) Dutch nationality Dual nationality South Africa Cape Town 1 1 0 1 0% 1 1 South Africa Pretoria 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 Spain Madrid 229 217 12 116 13% 131 37 Surinam Paramaribo 26 24 2 13 1% 26 2 Sweden Stockholm 20 15 5 8 1% 20 0 Switzerland Berne 26 24 2 9 1% 23 6 Tanzania Dar es Salaam 1 0 1 0 0% 1 0 Thailand Bangkok 20 17 3 4 0% 19 1 Trinidad and Port of Spain 4 3 1 3 0% 4 0 Tobago Tunisia Tunis 2 2 0 0 0% 2 1 Turkey Ankara 30 28 2 7 1% 30 26 | 71 | Turkey Istanbul 45 41 4 11 1% 44 24 Ukraine Kyiv 3 3 0 0 0% 3 0 United Arab Abu Dhabi 1 1 0 0 0% 1 0 Emirates United Arab Dubai 5 4 1 0 0% 5 0 Emirates United Kingdom London 181 167 14 59 6% 159 5 United States Chicago 5 5 0 1 0% 5 1 United States Miami 29 27 2 7 1% 19 3 United States New York 23 23 0 9 1% 20 6 United States San Francisco 15 15 0 1 0% 13 6 United States Washington, DC 4 4 0 1 0% 2 0 Uruguay Buenos Aires 6 6 0 5 1% 6 0 Venezuela Caracas 7 6 1 3 0% 6 1 Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City 2 2 0 0 0% 2 0

Totaal 1,917 1,743 174 923 48% 1,607 383 Trends in Consular Affairs

Consular assistance for Dutch prisoners abroad – grants 28,844 195,133 373,487 361,905 487,500 2,696,869 1,250,000 Remaining for rest of grant period 97,000 448,031 123,488 363,000 625,000 487,500 2,144,019 Total Total paid out by end of 2017 - 98,133 186,743 119,905 625,000 162,500 1,192,281 Budget for - 97,000 186,744 242,000 625,000 325,000 1,475,744 Budget for 97,000 203,531 123,488 242,000 625,000 325,000 1,616,019 xpendi - ture in

| 72 | 97,000 203,531 123,488 242,000 625,000 325,000 1,616,019 Budget for

283,500 121,000 162,500 xpendi - ture in

283,500 121,000 162,500 Budget for 244,500 244,500 Expendi- ture in 244,500 244,500 Budget for 476,875 292,133 496,975 724,905 975,000 4,840,888 1,875,000 Grant Total Transitional Transitional grant to Epafras 2016-2017 Comeback (magazine) 2017-2019 Extra care (Epafras) 2018-2019 Extra care (Dutch ) Social rehabilitation Grants for consular assistance for prisoners abroad Legal advice 2017-2019 Appendix 2

Consular assistance for Dutch prisoners abroad – WETS/WOTS

Number of transfers (incoming and outgoing) under the Criminal Judgments and Probation Decisions (Mutual Recognition and Enforcement) Act (WETS) and the Enforcement of Criminal Judgments (Transfer) Act (WOTS) in 2017.

Inkomend Uitgaand Wots 52 4 WETS total 294 72 WETS Framework Decision 947 20 45 WETS Framework Decision 909 274 27 Sources: International Transfer of Criminal Judgments Division (IOS)/Ministry of Justice and Security and the North Holland International Legal Assistance Centre (IRC) Schengen member state Number of uniform visas applied for number Total of uniform visas issued (including MEVs) Number of multiple-entry uniform visas (MEVs) number Total visas of LTV issued Number of uniform visas not issued Non-issue rate for uniform visas Proportion of MEVs Austria 304,556 284,904 153,159 5,419 14,233 4,7% 53,8% Belgium 231,437 184,792 81,582 1,072 37,062 16,0% 44,1% | 73 | Czech Republic 623,255 594,225 195,008 1,094 27,936 4,5% 32,8% Denmark 152,467 141,353 65,668 99 9,585 6,3% 46,5% Estonia 138,249 136,324 119,677 70 1,671 1,2% 87,8% Finland 827,520 814,047 729,559 2,742 9,337 1,1% 89,6% France 3,684,404 3,161,274 965,661 3,477 502,526 13,6% 30,5% Germany 2,049,055 1,857,770 1,525,361 34,892 156,393 7,6% 82,1% Greece 1,029,564 981,091 776,529 8,504 39,969 3,9% 79,1% Hungary 263,940 249,393 139,730 441 14,106 5,3% 56,0% Iceland 7,610 7,154 5,082 0 73 1,0% 71,0% Italy 1,850,260 1,703,693 1,229,938 4,845 141,722 7,7% 72,2% Latvia 166,800 164,175 126,777 131 2,579 1,5% 77,2% Lithuania 413,966 406,872 331,011 129 4,932 1,2% 81,4% Luxembourg 10,004 9,618 8,030 24 370 3,7% 83,5% Malta 37,881 27,785 8,380 139 9,557 25,2% 30,2% Netherlands 621,431 550,910 498,837 2,148 62,778 10,1% 90,5% Norway 196,082 182,062 48,177 2,844 11,176 5,7% 26,5% Poland 823,101 789,343 585,240 1,466 32,292 3,9% 74,1% Portugal 263,502 223,243 113,293 908 39,351 14,9% 50,7% Slovakia 41,639 40,552 28,922 221 866 2,1% 71,3% Slovenia 29,257 23,491 11,034 3,285 2,481 8,5% 47,0% Spain 1,624,276 1,456,906 615,897 4,338 134,394 8,3% 42,3% Sweden 248,347 211,219 54,342 5,177 24,598 9,9% 25,7% Switzerland 517,010 451,528 260,482 28,018 37,464 7,2% 57,7% Total 16,155,613 14,653,724 8,677,376 111,483 1,317,451 8,2% 59,2% Trends in Consular Affairs

2. Visas

KVV applications by purpose of stay in 2017 (percentage)

KVV purpose of stay in 2017

Tourism 47%

Commercial 19%

Family visit 18%

Professional reasons 10%

By invitation 3%

Cultural exchange 1%

Sporting event 1% | 74 | Ocial/political 1% Appendix 2

1. Top 5 countries

Top 5 countries for visa applications in 2017

Turkey 25%

India 23%

China 21%

Russia 18%

Indonesia 13%

| 75 | Turkey 73,541 India 70,146 China 64,285 Russia 52,466 Indonesia 37,989

The countries in the top 5 have remained unchanged for many years although their order does regularly change. India is expected to come top of the list in 2018.

2. Increase in number of applications In 2017 the Netherlands processed over 620,000 applications for short-stay visas. The number of applications has risen consistently in recent years, with a notable increase in 2017, and is expected to keep rising in the short, medium and long term. Figures supplied by Statistics Netherlands (CBS) and the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions (NBTC) show that this trend is likely to continue until 2030.

3. 3.5% of incoming tourists require a visa 4. Chinese and Indian nationals spend the most money in the Netherlands Trends in Consular Affairs

3. Travel advice

Unique number of visitors by month in 2017

May 124,361 June 176,589 July 238,740 August 184,721 September 200,894 October 169,086 November 143,322 December 125,639 Total: 1,363,352 (No data available for Jan/Feb/Mar/Apr due to the transition to netherlandsworldwide,nl)

Unique number of visitors by year | 76 | 2014 633,353 2015 1,688,038 2016 2,428,464 2017 1,735,434 Appendix 2

Number of updates to travel advice by year

2010 322 2011 476 2012 264 2013 466 2014 507 2015 804 2016 592 2017 546

Number of updates to travel advice by year

May 30 June 10 July 67

August 14 | 77 | September 72 October 26 November 29 December 26 (No data available prior to May 2017) Trends in Consular Affairs

4. Travel App

Number of times the Travel App was downloaded in 2017 by month

Apple Android Total January 1,338 4,492 5,830 February 666 1,372 2,038 March 752 1,820 2,572 April 1,443 2,995 4,438 May 586 2,069 2,655 June 1,055 4,367 5,422 July 2,944 9,126 12,070 August 1,308 3,241 4,549 September 1,175 3,517 4,692 October 855 2,304 3,159 November 905 1,663 2,568 December 1,097 3,675 4,772 | 78 | 54,765

Number of downloads of the Travel App by year

2015 36,733 2016 51,059 2017 56,125 2018 27,124 Totaal 171,041 Appendix 2

5. Information service

Number of new registrations in 2017 by month

Basic Full Total April 8,440 7,343 15,783 May 4,375 2,914 7,289 June 2,506 3,037 5,543 July 3,673 3,610 7,283 August 2,445 2,785 5,230 September 5,153 4,640 9,793 October 2,843 2,910 5,753 November 1,696 2,236 3,932 December 1,322 1,557 2,879 Total 32,453 31,032 63,485 (The service was launched in April 2017, so no earlier data available)

| 79 | Civic integration exam abroad

Number of civic integration exams in 2017 by representation Knowledge Reading Number of of Dutch comprehen- Spoken candidates Representation society sion Dutch Total per embassy Algeria, Algiers 26 43 41 110 53 Angola, Luanda 4 10 6 20 11 Argentina, Buenos Aires 26 25 33 84 34 Aruba, Oranjestad 8 8 8 24 9 Australia, Sydney 3 4 4 11 4 Bangladesh, Dhaka 14 20 23 57 29 Benin, Cotonou 24 38 44 106 44 Bosnia and Herzegovina, 81 91 124 296 127 Sarajevo Brazil, São Paulo 121 132 172 425 176 Brazil, São Paulo 129 145 168 442 178 Bulgaria, Sofia 2 2 2 6 2 Canada, Toronto 3 3 4 10 4 Chile, Santiago 31 31 40 102 40 Trends in Consular Affairs

Knowledge Reading Number of of Dutch comprehen- Spoken candidates Representation society sion Dutch Total per embassy China, Guangzhou 94 122 152 368 159 China, Hong Kong 35 36 49 120 53 China, Beijing 105 121 148 374 156 China, Shanghai 88 105 121 314 126 Colombia, Bogotá 94 111 156 361 160 Congo, Kinshasa 16 23 35 74 36 Costa Rica, San José 44 48 56 148 57 Croatia, Zagreb 2 2 2 6 2 Cuba, Havana 28 39 59 126 62 Curaçao, Willemstad 7 7 10 24 11 Dominican Republic, 45 66 68 179 122 Santo Domingo Egypt, Cairo 148 185 207 540 248 Ethiopia, Addis Ababa 39 58 67 164 76

| 80 | France, Paris 56 62 73 191 75 Georgia, Tbilisi 68 83 96 247 101 Germany, Berlin 97 106 117 320 124 Ghana, Accra 266 348 365 979 413 Greece, Athens 4 4 4 12 4 India, New Delhi 211 260 301 772 323 Indonesia, Jakarta 294 312 381 987 392 Iran, Tehran 190 256 261 707 293 Ireland, Dublin 4 4 4 12 4 Israel, Tel Aviv 32 31 35 98 36 Italy, Rome 47 55 66 168 71 Japan, Tokyo 4 4 6 14 6 Jordan, Amman 29 37 42 108 52 Kazakhstan, Astana 23 23 27 73 27 Kenya, Nairobi 53 62 76 191 85 Lebanon, Beirut 29 39 44 112 50 Macedonia, Skopje 81 112 125 318 138 Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 22 22 28 72 31 Mali, Bamako 5 6 8 19 8 Mexico, Mexico City 83 84 107 274 107 Appendix 2

Knowledge Reading Number of of Dutch comprehen- Spoken candidates Representation society sion Dutch Total per embassy Morocco, Rabat 1,181 1,532 1,517 4,230 1,721 New Zealand, Wellington 1 1 2 4 2 Pakistan, Islamabad 171 252 303 726 360 Peru, Lima 72 77 91 240 95 Philippines, Manila 346 390 476 1,212 508 Romania, Bucharest 1 1 1 3 1 Russia, Moscow 265 276 302 843 305 Rwanda, Kigali 18 23 33 74 34 Saudi Arabia, Riyadh 12 13 19 44 21 Senegal, Dakar 95 158 146 399 193 Serbia/Montenegro, Belgrade 76 86 115 277 125 Singapore, Singapore 44 47 59 150 68 South Africa, Pretoria 129 138 151 418 152 South Korea, Seoul 2 2 3 7 3 Spain, Madrid 62 76 97 235 100 | 81 | Sri Lanka, Colombo 53 61 84 198 86 St Maarten, Philipsburg 1 1 1 3 1 Sudan, Khartoum 29 47 51 127 66 Suriname, Paramaribo 78 103 87 268 118 Taiwan, Taipei 33 34 37 104 38 Tanzania, Dar es Salaam 12 12 18 42 19 Thailand, Bangkok 364 470 550 1,384 616 Trinidad and Tobago, 7 9 14 30 14 Port of Spain Tunisia, Tunis 85 102 129 316 136 Turkey, Ankara 44 68 79 191 84 Ukraine, Kyiv 211 216 228 655 237 United Arab Emirates, Dubai 55 65 75 195 85 United Kingdom, London 11 11 14 36 14 United States of America, 11 11 16 38 16 Washington, DC Venezuela, Caracas 36 37 48 121 49 Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City 180 215 224 619 248 Total 6,500 7,919 8,935 23,354 9,834 Appendix 3 Statutory framework Appendix 3

Below is an overview of the main treaties, conventions and laws regarding consular services. This is not an exhaustive list of all legislation relating to consular services.

Formal frameworks The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1961) forms the basis for all consular affairs. The convention, which is supplementary to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), establishes the immunity and privileges of consular officers. It also defines ‘consular functions’, which include protecting the interests of the state and its nationals, furthering commercial, economic, cultural and scientific relations, helping and assisting the state’s nationals and issuing passports and travel documents. The consular functions laid down in the Vienna Convention have been shaped further over the past 50 years, not least due to the exponential growth in international trade, travel and migration.

Within the general parameters of the Vienna Convention, consular services are a national competence and can vary from country to country. Like many other countries, the Netherlands has no national legislation on consular assistance and how the government should provide it. It is up to central government to determine the form and extent of the consular services offered. The guiding principle for this is the Dutch constitution, coupled with a commitment to treating all people who are in comparable situations the same. The current system stresses both citizens’ own responsibilities and the government’s aim of offering tailored solutions. However, the lack of clearly defined parameters | 83 | leaves room for unrealistic expectations about what the government can and cannot do.

National and EU legislation is in place regarding specific consular services and consular products such as passports and visas. In some cases these legislative frameworks restrict the government’s ambitions to provide high-quality consular services, valued by customers.

There are three national laws that govern specific aspects of consular services. • The Consular Act (1871) governs the powers of consular officers to carry out the tasks of a registrar, e.g. drawing up civil status documents. • The Consular Fees Act (2002) stipulates that the government may charge a fee for the provision of consular services. • The Consular Protection (EU citizens) Act (2017) lays down that outside the EU the Netherlands provides consular assistance to citizens of EU member states that do not have an embassy or consulate-general in the country in question, in the same manner as it does to Dutch nationals. Trends in Consular Affairs

Passport Act Under the Passport Act (Kingdom Act of 26 September 1991, establishing rules for the issue of travel documents) the Minister of Foreign Affairs is competent to receive applications for and issue national passports, emergency travel documents and refugee or alien’s passports, if the applicant is outside the Kingdom. This is set out in more detail in the Passport Regulations (Embassies and Consulates) (2001).

Schengen / Visa Code Schengen visa policy is made in accordance with EU legislation, specifically the Visa Code (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009).

The Kingdom Visa Act provides the framework for the Caribbean visa policy for the countries and public bodies in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Personal data is protected under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs processes personal data, including sensitive personal data, in order to carry out its consular tasks. These tasks may require the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to share information, including sensitive personal data, with other organisations, for the purposes of consular processes, in order to examine travel document irregularities, or in the context of a criminal investigation. | 84 | Personal data is processed, provided and archived in accordance with the provisions in the GDPR. Appendix 3

| 85 | Appendix 4 White paper Appendix 4

At the request of the House of Representatives five priorities have been identified based on the feedback of customers of the consular service worldwide. This is the first step towards creating a white paper, which will synthesise the results of public consultations, targeted customer research, feedback from the 24/7 BZ Contact Centre and questions from members of the public. In the coming years we will closely monitor the problems experienced by customers and provide insight into the scope for action.

Theme Details Course of action Passports Applicants repeatedly complain The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working hard to that the passport application expand the possibilities for issuing passports in a process worldwide is inconvenient, secure manner through the use of external service impractical and costly. providers, mobile solutions and alternatives in the Netherlands.

In consultation with the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations we are devising well-designed studies that will help investigate other options.

This document sets out the plans in detail. Nationality Inquiries are regularly received The coalition agreement states that the government from all over the world about will draft proposals to amend Dutch nationality law. the implementation of existing The Ministry of Justice and Security bears primary nationality law, specifically on the responsibility for legislation on Dutch nationality | 87 | retention of Dutch nationality.

Due to policy changes and the effects of court judgments, the rules on nationality are dynamic. Dutch nationals and non-Dutch nationals regularly indicate that this is a problem. Driving Inquiries are regularly made about In consultation with the Ministry of Infrastructure licences renewing or applying for a Dutch and Water Management, the Road Transport Agency driving licence from abroad. (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer; RDW) and other relevant parties, scope for improving the provision In the first half of 2018, around of services in this area via the International Desk is 700 such inquiries were made. being explored. Brexit Many hundreds of Dutch nationals Various government organisations including the have contacted the Ministry with Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the IND, the customs queries about Brexit. authorities and the Tax and Customs Administration are providing information and support. Trends in Consular Affairs

Theme Details Course of action Visa and Many hundreds of queries are The Dutch authorities may contact other countries to admission submitted regarding other request in broad terms that they do not unduly policy countries’ admission policies (the restrict international movement. However, the power speed of procedures, refusals at to take decisions on individual cases lies with the borders and denied visa country in question. applications). The follow-up to the SEO Amsterdam Economics In a few dozen cases the Dutch report will also explore the scope for further visa government has been asked to be facilitation arrangements for specific sectors and more lenient in issuing visas to groups of applicants. foreign nationals for business, study or other purposes.

| 88 | Appendix 4

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November 2018