The principal residence of a child determines the official place of residence and registration in Zoetermeer. This has both legal and practical implications, even if the child regularly stays with both parents.
Definition of Principal Residence
The principal residence refers to the address where a child is registered in the Personal Records Database (BRP) in Zoetermeer. A child can only be officially registered at one location.
Impact of Principal Residence
| Subject | Effect |
|---|---|
| Education | School allocation based on the principal residence in Zoetermeer |
| Child Benefit | Payment to the parent at whose address the child is registered |
| Financial Benefits | Child-related budget and other benefits |
| Healthcare | Registration with a general practitioner in the Zoetermeer region |
| Voting Rights | Voting location from age 18 |
Principal Residence after Divorce
In the event of a divorce, parents in Zoetermeer must agree on which parent the child will have their principal residence with. This is included in the parenting plan. Important considerations include, among others:
- The child's place of residence prior to the divorce
- The location of school and friends in Zoetermeer
- Availability and work situation of parents
- Living conditions of both parents
- Practical aspects such as benefits and education
Relationship Between Principal Residence and Care Division
The principal residence is separate from the division of care:
- In co-parenting, the child still has one official address
- The child can spend equally divided time with both parents
- It concerns only the formal registration, not the actual duration of stay
Changing the Principal Residence
A change of principal residence is possible when:
- Both parents consent to the change
- A court makes a ruling in case of a dispute
- There are changed circumstances, such as a move within or outside Zoetermeer
Can a child be registered at two addresses?
No, according to the law, a child can only be registered at one address. In co-parenting, parents can however make arrangements regarding the division of benefits and child benefit.Does principal residence give more rights to a parent?
No, the principal residence does not affect parental authority rights. With joint parental authority, both parents remain equal in decision-making, regardless of the child's registration.Can I move with my child without permission?
With joint parental authority, permission from the other parent is required for a move. In case of refusal, substitute permission can be requested from the court in Zoetermeer or via the District Court of The Hague.Frequently Asked Questions about Principal Residence in Zoetermeer
How is the principal residence determined after divorce?
This is recorded in the parenting plan, with factors such as the previous living situation, school location in Zoetermeer, and availability of parents. In case of disagreement, the court decides, for example via the District Court of The Hague.
Can I receive child benefit if my child is not registered at my address?
No, child benefit goes to the parent of the principal residence. In co-parenting, arrangements for division can be made via an agreement with the SVB.
What if the other parent blocks a change of principal residence?
You can submit the matter to the court via the District Court of The Hague. Motivate why the change is in the child's best interest, such as in case of a move within or outside Zoetermeer.
Does principal residence affect my parental authority?
No, parental authority remains the same with joint parental authority, regardless of the principal residence. Decisions on upbringing and education are made jointly.
Moving without permission from the other parent?
With joint parental authority, permission is required for moving. Without agreement, you can apply for substitute permission from the court in the Zoetermeer region.
Contact and Assistance in Zoetermeer
For legal advice, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. Disputes are handled by the District Court of The Hague.