Detention

Last update : November 2024

You can find more information on so called “voluntary” return, Entry ban
and deportation, under this header 'deportation'

When the police arrests you, always ask for your lawyer before you talk to the police. When you are in immigration detention, you will not know how long it will take.


Immigration Detention Hotline “Meldpunt Vreemdelingendetentie”
Do you know somebody in immigration detention?
Do you have complaints about your treatment in detention?

You can get in contact with this Immigration Detention Hotline:

Call from detention: 0800-3388776 (free)
Call from outside detention: 010-7470156
email: info@meldpuntvreemdelingendetentie.nl
Website: meldpuntvreemdelingendetentie.nl/about-us

The imprisonment may be up to 18 months. Usually, when the judge decides that there is no prospect on deportation, you must be released. This is often after 6 months, but can be extended with 12 months maximum when the DT&V blames you for not cooperating on your own deportation. In prison you have the right to obtain a lawyer and medical support, although in practice the medical care is often not sufficient. You can receive papermail, and visitors. Then you should ask for permission and mention the name and date of birth of the person who wants to visit you. You get a weekly allowance, which you will need to buy extra food or to call.