Applying for parental authority and guardianship

What is it?

Having parental authority or custody means that you get to make decisions about a child.

Joint parental authority apply online with the court.

Designating a guardian can also be done online at the court or through your will.

Parental authority

Having parental authority means that you get to make decisions about your child. Are you married or in a registered partnership and have a child? Then both parents automatically get parental authority.

Are you not married and not in a registered partnership? Then the father or the duo mother can apply for parental authority. Note: by acknowledging the child, the father or duo mother does not yet have parental authority. You can apply for parental custody separately.

Guardian

A guardian is given custody of the child when the parents can no longer care for the child. For example, if both parents die. Parents can appoint someone as guardian of their minor child. A judge can also appoint someone as guardian.

What to do.

What to do.

This product can be requested digitally in several ways.

Choose a mode of application.

Requesting parental authority

Appointing a guardian

Form of joint custody

What do I need?

This is how you apply for joint parental authority:

  • Go to the website Rechtspraak.nl.
  • Log in with your DigiD.
  • Complete the application form.
  • Would you like to submit the application form by mail? Then send the following documents to the court:
    • the completed application form
    • a copy of your child's birth certificate
    • a copy of both applicants' proof of identity

This is how you appoint a guardian:

How long does it take?

You will receive a confirmation at home within 2 weeks.

Additional information

Condition

You can read the Requirements for requesting joint parental authority at Rechtspraak.nl.

The Requirements for appointing a guardian can be found at Rijksoverheid.nl.

Information

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