A2 KNM: Family & Relationships
The Netherlands recognizes different forms of partnerships: marriage (huwelijk), registered partnership (geregistreerd partnerschap), and cohabitation con...
Reviewed against official sources - Updated 2026-05-10
The Netherlands recognizes different forms of partnerships: marriage (huwelijk), registered partnership (geregistreerd partnerschap), and cohabitation contracts (samenlevingscontract). Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2001. Divorce (echtscheiding) requires legal procedures through the court.
| Dutch | English | Legal Status |
|---|---|---|
| Huwelijk | Marriage | Full legal union, ceremony required |
| Geregistreerd partnerschap | Registered partnership | Almost same rights as marriage |
| Samenlevingscontract | Cohabitation contract | Private agreement, fewer rights |
| Echtscheiding | Divorce | Court procedure required |
| Alimentatie | Alimony | Financial support after divorce |
| Gezag | Custody | Parental authority over children |
| Situation | Dutch | Common Custom |
|---|---|---|
| Living together | Samenwonen | Common before marriage; couples may make a contract |
| Birth registration | Geboorteaangifte | Register a birth at the gemeente |
| Funeral or cremation | Begrafenis / crematie | Send condolences and be quiet and respectful |
| Visiting someone | Op bezoek gaan | Make an appointment first and arrive on time |
| Birthday | Verjaardag | Bring a small gift and congratulate close family too |
| Neighbours | Buren | Introduce yourself and keep noise reasonable |
Examples
- Wij zijn getrouwd.
- We are married.
- We hebben een geregistreerd partnerschap.
- We have a registered partnership.
- Zij gaan scheiden.
- They are getting divorced.
- De kinderen wonen bij beide ouders.
- The children live with both parents.
Study note
In the Netherlands, both parents usually share custody (gezamenlijk gezag) after divorce - children typically live alternately with each parent. Financial arrangements are handled through court. For marriage, you must register at the gemeente at least 2 weeks before the ceremony.
Practice after reading
Train A2 knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.
