Compensation as a victim
What would you like help with?
Detailed explanation, checklist and sources
Damage caused by a criminal offence? Map out the damage and investigate whether you can submit a claim in the criminal case.
General information about Dutch law · Reviewed on · How we work
On this page
Prepare an overview of the damage
Separate damaged items, healthcare costs, travel and lost income. Keep evidence and state any compensation you have already received.
Use the correct application route
In a criminal case, you may be able to claim compensation as an injured party. Ask Victim Support for help with the form and check the submission instructions.
Discuss what will not be dealt with
Not every item of damage can be assessed in criminal proceedings. If the criminal court does not deal with all the damage, ask whether you can go to the civil court or use another scheme for that.
Rights also without a report or residence status
Victims and surviving relatives have rights without a police report, Dutch address or residence status. Ask about procedure, your case and seized property; say you want updates. Slachtofferhulp Nederland offers free legal, practical and emotional support. Discuss safety and ask, for example, whether your address can be omitted from the report; anonymity is not generally guaranteed. Minors may also report offences. A lawyer may assist, free only in certain cases. You may request another supporter; refusal must be explained.
Language, treatment and further rights
Ask for an interpreter if Dutch is difficult; a police-arranged interpreter for reporting/interviewing is free. Request written translation of relevant documents from the prosecutor or judge, with help if needed. Deaf/hard-of-hearing people and those with speech impairments can consider Tolkcontact. Beyond possible compensation, ask about file access, witness expenses and speaking rights in eligible cases. You may challenge the prosecutor's decision not to prosecute; get the correct procedure and deadlines checked. Ask about leave, release or escape. Complain to the organisation about improper treatment. Restorative contact with a suspect/offender requires both sides' willingness and can be explored with support; do not initiate unsafe contact yourself.
Your checklist
Prepare your next stepFill in and save · Word
Tick what you have checked or collected. Note what is missing and take your overview to a meeting.
Unless saved in My overview: Your entries stay only on this screen. Download before leaving; closing or reloading clears them. Do not enter identity numbers, passwords or unnecessary personal details.
What do you still need for your next step?
Item 1 / 3 · Where do you stand with this item?
Case number and form
This overview follows your own answers. It does not assess your rights or guarantee that your file is complete.
Your choices stay here. Use the buttons below if you want to save or download.
View all details, notes and timeline
Your timeline and evidence
List events and contacts. Note where you keep the evidence; no upload is needed.
What goes in my timeline?
Record what happened, when, the response and where to find the letter, message or photo. Mark uncertain dates.
Is my evidence sent?
No. You only note where it is kept. No files are uploaded or sent automatically.
How do I save my timeline?
Your entries are not saved automatically. Choose Save and continue later to store this preparation, including your timeline, in My overview. Wait for confirmation and save new changes again. You can also download a Word file without an account.
Up to 20 events. Choose a different position for an event to change the order.
0 / 3 · Checked or collected
For each event, note the date, what happened and where the evidence is kept. Example: 3 October — letter received — correspondence folder.
Describe the solution you would like, such as an explanation of a deduction and repayment of the outstanding amount.
For example: which document is missing, who can provide it and what should I do first?
Record the date and its source. If unknown, note this and check promptly. This tool does not calculate or monitor deadlines.
After your conversation
These are your own notes. Confirm agreements with the other person; these notes do not prove their agreement.
This is your preparation, not a submitted request, objection or legally reviewed document. A tick records only your own progress. Check the procedure and deadline in the original letter.
Save and continue later
Clear entries
Download anything you want to keep first. Clearing cannot be undone.
- Case number and form
- Receipts and proof of income
- Overview of previous compensation
Draft: request for translation of case documents
Complete and send yourself to the competent prosecutor or judge; seek help identifying the recipient. This request suspends no deadline.
Edit your draftWord
Your edits stay on this page and are not automatically saved or sent. Complete every placeholder.
Frequently asked questions
Will I automatically receive money if the suspect is convicted?
No. You must request compensation in the correct way and substantiate your damage. Even if the judge grants your request, that does not mean the amount has already been paid.