How long does a criminal record last in the Netherlands?

A criminal record doesn't last forever in the Netherlands. The duration depends on the sentence imposed: from 5 years for a fine to 30 years for serious prison sentences. This is important because a criminal record can affect employment, permits, and other crucial aspects of life as an expat in the Netherlands.

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The short answer

The duration of a criminal record varies by type of sentence under Dutch law. A fine disappears from your record after 5 years, a community service order (taakstraf) after 10 years. Prison sentences up to 1 year remain visible for 15 years, sentences of 1 to 3 years last 20 years. Serious prison sentences over 3 years remain on your criminal record for 30 years. After these periods, the conviction is automatically removed from your record.

What does Dutch law say?

The Judicial and Criminal Records Act (Wet justitiële en strafvorderlijke gegevens or Wjsg) regulates how long criminal convictions are retained in the Netherlands. This law distinguishes between different types of sentences and sets fixed terms. The periods begin from the day the sentence is fully served or expires. The aim is to give people a chance for a fresh start whilst keeping serious crimes visible for longer.

1Wjsg Article 6: determines retention periods per sentence type

2Fine (geldboete): 5 years retention

3Community service and conditional sentences: 10 years retention

4Prison sentence up to 1 year: 15 years retention

5Prison sentence 1-3 years: 20 years retention

6Prison sentence over 3 years: 30 years retention

What should you be aware of?

The period only begins after your sentence is fully served. For conditional sentences, the probation period also counts. A new conviction during the retention period can cause both sentences to remain on your criminal record for longer. For certain professions or permits, employers or authorities in the Netherlands can always request your full criminal record.

1Period starts after full completion of the sentence

2New convictions can extend retention periods

3Conditional sentences: probation period counts

4Some employers can always access your full criminal record

Practical example

Jan received a €500 fine in 2020 for shoplifting. He paid this fine immediately. His criminal record will be automatically cleared in 2025 (after 5 years). If Jan applies for a teaching position in the meantime, the school can request a Certificate of Conduct (Verklaring Omtrent Gedrag or VOG). Until 2025, this VOG could be refused due to the shoplifting conviction, depending on the specific role.

What can you do?

There are several steps you can take if you want to know what's on your criminal record or if you're experiencing problems.

1Request a criminal record extract from Justis for €7.60

2Check if the retention period has been calculated correctly

3For errors: submit a correction request to Justis

4Consider legal assistance for complex situations or appeals

Conclusion

The duration of a criminal record in the Netherlands depends on the severity of your sentence, ranging from 5 to 30 years. After this period, your criminal record is automatically cleared. It's important to know when this happens, as a criminal record can affect employment and permits as an expat in the Netherlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have my criminal record cleared earlier?

What happens with multiple convictions?

Do I get notified when my criminal record is cleared?

What's the difference between a criminal record and a VOG?

Can employers always access my criminal record?

What happens with youth sentences?

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