What is the difference between the national permanent residence permit and the EU long-term residence permit?

Both permits give you a strong, long-term right to live and work in the Netherlands after five years. When you apply, the IND will usually first check whether you meet the conditions for EU long-term resident status.

The main practical difference is mobility: EU long-term residence gives you easier access to residence in other EU member states, which can matter if you may want to live elsewhere in Europe later. If you intend to stay in the Netherlands only, the national permanent permit may be enough; if European mobility matters to you, the EU variant is worth requesting.