I just way to stay for six months in the Netherlands with my new girlfriend, can anyone help?
I apologize if this is the wrong subreddit, please redirect me if so.
I'm a 43 y/o retired US Veteran with a good pension. I met a Dutchie backpacking New Zealand, fell in love, and have decided to go check out her world and see how I like it.
I'd like to stay six months straight (which obviously doesn't work with the 90/180 rule).
From what I see my options are;
DAFT (I do not want to start up and run a business but if I can 'fake' it to get that time, I'll throw the 4500 euro into a dutch bank account no problem, I'd just need guidance on how to do it and info on any taxes I'd pay).
Student Visa (I would love to pay for and take lessons in learning the language, culture, history and such but it says I have to go full-time? I'm good with a single class once or twice a week but do not want to be a full-time student)
Residence permit for partner (has anyone done this? could it work? we have shared expenses from our adventures, we'll be living together, already have a place set up)
I've read some stuff about how I can extend my stay if I apply to one of these options while I'm there and the visa is in 'process.' So like I could wait three months and then apply to one of these and get some extra time but that seems dodgy.
Is really my best option just doing the DAFT thing?
Please and thank you for your time. I do love this lady and am willing to do what I have to to see this through (aside from marriage! not just yet.. but the potential is there.. she's simply a wonderful human).