This guide covers the Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant (kennismigrant) path for October 2025. It pulls from official government sources only. For numbers that might change, like salary levels, check the links to official sites for the most up-to-date info.
What the Highly Skilled Migrant Route Is
The Highly Skilled Migrant permit helps Dutch firms hire skilled workers from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland. It uses a quick, rule-based system. The employer needs to be a recognised sponsor with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). Rules come from the Dutch government and IND.
Essential Eligibility and Conditions
- Recognised Sponsor: Your Dutch employer must be on IND’s list of recognised sponsors.
- Valid Contract: You need a signed job contract or appointment with a Dutch company.
- Role and Pay: The job must meet IND’s monthly gross salary rule for your group.
- Lawful Entry: If you need an MVV, follow the TEV process for entry and residence.
- Documents: Bring a valid passport, signed contract, sponsor statements, antecedents form, and any other items IND asks for.
- After Arrival: Sign up with the local municipality for BRP, do biometrics, get health insurance; some may need a TB test based on nationality.
Salary Thresholds (Oct 2025): How They Work
IND sets minimum monthly gross salary levels (not including 8% holiday pay). These vary by group, like age or if you’re a recent grad with Orientation Year status. They update now and then.
Always double-check current numbers on the IND website before you apply.
Simple Reference Table (check IND for latest)
| Category (Example) | What to Check | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Highly skilled migrant aged 30+ | IND salary threshold (monthly gross) | Excludes 8% holiday allowance |
| Highly skilled migrant under 30 | IND salary threshold (monthly gross) | Lower than 30+ group |
| Reduced salary (e.g., after Orientation Year or Dutch grad) | IND reduced threshold (monthly gross) | Only if you fit IND’s rules |
Where to confirm latest figures:
- IND (official): Go to Work > Highly skilled migrant > Income/salary requirement.
- Business.gov.nl (official): Overviews and links for employers.
Recognised Sponsor: Why It Matters
Only recognised sponsors can use this route. Employers apply to become one if they’re not already. Check status through IND.
Online Application Guide (Step-by-Step)
- Employer Checks Recognition: Make sure the company is an IND-recognised sponsor. If not, apply for it first via official steps.
- Prepare the Application:
- Signed job contract with title, hours, and monthly gross salary.
- Proof that pay meets IND’s level.
- Your passport info and forms like antecedents declaration.
- Any extra docs IND needs, like for reduced salary.
- Submit to IND (Online by Employer): Sponsors use IND’s online system. Pick TEV if you need MVV; otherwise, just the residence permit. Pay IND fees.
- IND Decision and Entry Visa (If Needed): If MVV is required, pick it up at a Dutch embassy after approval. Travel to Netherlands within the valid time.
- After Arrival in Netherlands:
- Register at municipality for BSN number.
- Go to IND for biometrics and get your permit.
- Do TB test if needed for your case.
- Keep health insurance active.
Processing Times and Fees
- Decision Time: Up to 90 days by law, per IND rules.
- Fees: Pay for sponsor recognition (if new) and the application. Check current amounts on the IND website.
Compliance and Ongoing Duties
- Employer Duties: Keep records, stick to salary and terms, report changes to IND.
- Employee Duties: Meet permit rules, like getting the right pay, tell about changes, keep valid docs.
FAQs
Who can apply for the Highly Skilled Migrant permit?
The Dutch employer, who must be a recognised sponsor with IND, submits the application for non-EU/EEA/Swiss professionals with a qualifying job offer.
What are the salary thresholds for this visa?
IND sets minimum monthly gross salaries (excluding 8% holiday allowance), varying by age or status like recent graduates. Check the latest on the IND website.
Do I need an MVV entry visa?
It depends on your nationality. If required, follow the TEV procedure for combined entry and residence; otherwise, apply for the residence permit only.
How long does the application process take?
IND’s statutory decision period is up to 90 days. Processing starts after the recognised sponsor submits online.
