What is the government’s policy on child brides and forced marriages?
The Netherlands does not recognise child marriages. If a married asylum seeker turns out to be under the age of 18, they are considered an unaccompanied minor and are placed under the guardianship of Nidos by a court order.
Preventing forced marriage
The Dutch government wants to prevent forced marriage. The law on marriage in the Netherlands requires both partners to be at least 18 years old. If someone under 18 marries (or has married) abroad, the government will not recognise the marriage until both partners have reached the age of 18.