Family reunification application – can my partner visit the Netherlands while the IND is processing the application?

Hi everyone, My partner and I submitted a family reunification (partner) application to the IND in the Netherlands. We have already submitted all the required documents.

I’m wondering: during the time that the application is being processed, is the non-EU partner allowed to visit the Netherlands (for example, with a short-stay visa or visa-free entry, if eligible)? Or does she have to remain in her home country and wait there until IND makes a final decision?

If anyone has personal experience with this situation or knows how the IND handles this, I’d really appreciate your input. Thanks!