Worldly Chatter

While it might not be the case all over the world, a lot of countries have strict policies about marriage; Holland just happens to be one of those countries. I, as a non-Dutch National, have no right to marry Dutchie unless the IND says I can so we have to ask permission to marry. Now that I have my permit in hand we can do just that. So last night we headed to the Publiek Zaken (public office) with our folder that contains everything we have on the IND and our paperwork. We were going prepared as we weren’t entirely sure what we would need to give them. We talk to the receptionist and she gives us a number and we take our seats in the waiting area. I am reminded of the dings that I heard Monday while waiting to pick up my permit. The dings are back! I hear them and watch the screen tell me what’s new in Hilversum all over again. Patience is the key when you are anxious to do something right away. At least this time I had Dutchie waiting with me. Then finally it is our turn and back to booth four!
Dutchie explains what we need as she hands the gentleman our application. It seems they don’t see this particular form often as he looked shocked to see it and the woman I dealt with on Monday had never even seen it! However, unlike Monday, he knew what to do with it! Now when I say we have to apply and ask permission to marry I mean I personally am doing it. I had to hand over a copy of my permit and my birth certificate plus the form Dutchie and I had filled out. Nothing was required of Dutchie at all so it seems the only reason she was there was to better translate everything! So the kind man copies what is needed, gives me a copy of my own permit with stamps and signatures to prove that I actually applied. He explained that the IND now has to review the application and make sure everything is up to par. I am not sure how it wouldn’t be as I only just got my permit but what can I do about? They have a system and I must abide by it right? Then he states this process will take 6-8 weeks. Are you kidding me? Absolutely everything is up to par; it had to be just to get my permit! It took time to get my butt over here, get my permit process and time to actually get it. I shouldn’t be surprised. Besides I can’t complain. I can actually marry Dutchie! My country says we can’t but hers says there isn’t a problem; her country is actually nice that way. I mean she could have been from Belgium where you can’t marry someone outside the country if you’re gay so I am thrilled here! So now we wait, again. At least now my application is in and by September I will be a married woman!

wedding bells, Netherlands, American expat, Dutch IND, marriage application