{"id":5346,"date":"2024-10-02T12:27:19","date_gmt":"2024-10-02T12:27:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barkanl.org\/?page_id=5346"},"modified":"2025-04-19T14:06:35","modified_gmt":"2025-04-19T14:06:35","slug":"faq","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/barkanl.org\/en\/faq\/","title":{"rendered":"FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=”full_width_background” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bg_image=”63″ bg_position=”left top” background_image_loading=”default” bg_repeat=”no-repeat” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”8%” constrain_group_1=”yes” bottom_padding=”8%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” color_overlay=”#333333″ overlay_strength=”0.5″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” font_color=”#ffffff” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” gradient_type=”default”][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bottom_padding=”2%” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h1>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”3%” constrain_group_1=”yes” bottom_padding=”3%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” gradient_type=”default”][nectar_btn size=”medium” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” solid_text_color_override=”#f9f4ec” icon_family=”none” el_class=”buttonfontsize” text=”Administrative support” url=”#administrative-support” margin_right=”25px”][nectar_btn size=”medium” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” solid_text_color_override=”#f9f4ec” icon_family=”none” el_class=”buttonfontsize” text=”Housing and shelter” url=”#housing-shelter” margin_right=”25px”][nectar_btn size=”medium” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” solid_text_color_override=”#f9f4ec” icon_family=”none” el_class=”buttonfontsize” text=”Work and income” url=”#work-income” margin_right=”25px”][nectar_btn size=”medium” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” solid_text_color_override=”#f9f4ec” icon_family=”none” el_class=”buttonfontsize” text=”Care and guidance” url=”#care-guidance” margin_right=”15px”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”1%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”administrative-support” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” el_class=”faq-titles” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n

Administrative support<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][toggles style=”minimal”][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h4″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help with registration in the RNI\/BRP and obtaining a BSN?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, we can help with:<\/p>\n

\u2022 Registration in the RNI (Non-Residents Registration) \u2013 for stays shorter than 4 months in the Netherlands.
\n\u2022 Enrollment in the BRP (Personal Records Database) \u2013 for stays longer than 4 months in the Netherlands.<\/p>\n

In both cases, a BSN (Citizen Service Number) is issued immediately.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h4″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Why does an EU citizen need a BSN?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]In the Netherlands, you need a BSN in order to:<\/p>\n

\u2022 Work (for payroll and tax purposes)
\n\u2022 Open a bank account
\n\u2022 Take out health insurance
\n\u2022 Access Dutch government services[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help with applying for a DigiD (digital identity)?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, we support EU citizens in applying for a DigiD. This allows secure online access to government and other official services in the Netherlands. Non-residents (RNI registrants) can also apply for a DigiD.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help with applying for a passport?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, we support EU citizens in contacting their respective consulate and in applying for a passport, as long as it is a logical and necessary step in the recovery and reintegration process.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][\/toggles][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”1%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”housing-shelter” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” el_class=”faq-titles” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n

Housing and shelter<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][toggles style=”minimal”][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Do you have your own shelter facilities?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]No, Barka does not have its own shelter facilities in the Netherlands. We work together with other organizations and institutions to arrange (temporary) shelter when needed.<\/p>\n

In Poland, Barka operates self-sustaining living and working communities. In other EU countries, depending on the situation, we facilitate connection to social shelters, medical institutions, addiction clinics, rehabilitation centers, etc.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you provide shelter?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]We can mediate access for vulnerable EU citizens to shelters for homeless individuals in the Netherlands.
\nIf the person is entitled to social rights in the Netherlands (e.g. through a relevant work history or another lawful residency status), they can be accommodated within the regular care system. We also assist in collecting the necessary documentation to establish this legal status.<\/p>\n

If an EU citizen does not have access to regular social shelters (yet), there are \u2013 depending on the municipality (and regional binding) \u2013 possibilities for temporary stay in specially designated short-term EU shelters. We are active in these shelters, supporting people and helping them build perspectives for a life beyond the streets.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you arrange housing?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]No, we do not have housing of our own. However, we can provide advice and guidance to help people on their way to finding suitable housing.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”The employment contract ends, and the person loses their accommodation. What can they do?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]If someone is not self-reliant enough to take action themselves, it\u2019s important to immediately contact us.
\nAs soon as we receive the support request, we work together with the person to find the most realistic short-term solution.<\/p>\n

Depending on the individual situation, several options are possible:<\/p>\n

\u2022 Assessing access to regular emergency shelters or designated short-term EU shelters, and if needed, obtaining other social provisions (such as benefits, emergency assistance, or legal support).
\n\u2022 Immediate re-entry into the Dutch labor market (work and accommodation).
\n\u2022 Reconnecting with their country of origin.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][\/toggles][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”1%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”work-income” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” el_class=”faq-titles” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n

Work and income<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][toggles style=”minimal”][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help with applying for benefits (sickness benefit, unemployment benefit, social assistance benefit, or homelessness benefit)?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, we can guide people through the process of applying for sickness benefit, unemployment benefit (WW), social assistance benefit, and\/or homelessness benefit. We make sure all necessary documents are collected and that the correct steps are followed.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help with finding a job?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, we offer support in finding employment, including:<\/p>\n

\u2022 Assistance with writing a CV and cover letter
\n\u2022 Help with job searching and the application process
\n\u2022 Connecting with relevant employers and agencies
\n\u2022 Referral to courses or training programs to improve skills (commonly VCA certificate, forklift license, language courses, etc.)[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help with financial problems and debt?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, we can support people with less complex financial problems, such as setting up personal payment arrangements. For more complex debt situations, we work together with specialized debt counseling organizations.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][\/toggles][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”1%” bottom_padding=”4%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”care-guidance” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” el_class=”faq-titles” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n

Care and guidance<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][toggles style=”minimal”][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help with domestic violence?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, we can support EU citizens who are involved in situations of domestic violence. We ensure that they receive guidance from specialized care institutions and help them understand and follow the process. We also assist both the client and care providers to ensure necessary protection and support.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help people with mental health problems?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, depending on the situation, we can refer people and facilitate accessible contact with appropriate psychological services, both in the Netherlands and in their country of origin, so they receive the support they need.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”What can you do for people released from prison?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]We can guide individuals in their reintegration into society by supporting their (re)entry into the Dutch labor market and, if applicable, by connecting them with relevant institutions and support programs, both in the Netherlands and in their country of origin.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help people struggling with addiction?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Depending on the situation, we can refer people and facilitate accessible contact with detox and addiction clinics. This can be arranged either in the Netherlands or in their home country, depending on their insurance status and language skills of the individual.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help with returning to the country of origin?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, we can help vulnerable and homeless individuals who see no future in the Netherlands to reconnect with their country of origin. Many people choose to return to their families and regain strength in a familiar environment. Others are unable or afraid to take that step and require more support during the return process.<\/p>\n

Depending on what is appropriate, a suitable place can be arranged in one of Barka\u2019s self-sustaining living and working communities in Poland, to a social shelter, medical facility, addiction clinic, or rehabilitation center in their home country.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you act as interpreters?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]We are not official interpreters, but when needed, we assist in overcoming communication barriers \u2014 especially when language is an obstacle in a vulnerable person\u2019s recovery and reintegration process.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][toggle color=”Accent-Color” heading_tag=”h3″ heading_tag_functionality=”default” title=”Can you help mediate conflicts between an employee and employer?”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Yes, we can assist EU citizens with disputes involving their employer. If our mediation does not resolve the issue, we can refer the employee to legal support or other organizations for more specialized assistance.[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][\/toggles][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”4%” bottom_padding=”2%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”contact” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”2\/3″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n

Didn’t find your question here? Get in touch with us.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/3″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=”80px” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”]