Streamlined Permits for Work & Residence
The Netherlands provides a welcoming environment with multiple options for foreign residents working in the Netherlands. ECA International’s 2019 ranking of the most liveable cities for foreigners sees three Dutch cities in the top ten. The Hague ranks third, Amsterdam and Eindhoven tie for sixth and Rotterdam ranks 12th. When moving to the Netherlands, Dutch immigration provides straightforward policies for the possibility to obtain work and residence permits.
Employing international talent
Obtaining a work visa or work permit in the Netherlands is streamlined, enabling companies to bring talent.
The Immigration and Naturalization Services provide different work permits. The Highly Skilled Migrant Visa allows businesses to bring uniquely qualified international talent to live and work in the Netherlands for a maximum of five years. To qualify as a highly skilled migrant, the foreign employee must earn a minimum gross monthly income of € 5,331.00 or € 3,909.00 if under 30 (salary criteria 2024). Employers wishing to employ highly skilled migrants must submit an Admission and Residence application for those employees.
Other options also exist. The Single Permit requires an employer to sponsor a worker who does not fall under other programs. Recognized Sponsorship is a direct process for employers to sponsor (PDF) international individuals.
Beyond sponsorship
EU and Dutch law also encourage skilled talent to find their own path to the Netherlands. The EU Directive Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) paves the way for employees in businesses originally established outside of the EU. The EU Blue Card program helps facilitate transitions to the EU for highly qualified workers outside the EU who are seeking employment in Europe. Business visa are available for short-term working engagements by foreign nationals who are not seeking a work permit.
For more detailed information, the Dutch government provides all relevant information for the Admission and Residence Procedure (TEV) on their website. Internationals moving to the Netherlands can also get dedicated assistance for getting settled here at the located across the Expat Center offices located across Netherlands.
