🇳🇱 Netherlands · Work Visa
Work permit categories, eligibility, sponsorship, application steps, and processing times.
Quick answer
Non-EU workers usually come via the Highly Skilled Migrant scheme through a recognised sponsor, or the EU Blue Card; EU citizens work freely. The IND handles permits, and a salary threshold applies to skilled routes.
Work and residence permits are handled by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). The Highly Skilled Migrant scheme (via a recognised sponsor) and the EU Blue Card are the main routes.
- The Highly Skilled Migrant route requires an IND-recognised sponsor (employer) and a salary threshold.
- The EU Blue Card is available for higher-educated professionals.
- EU/EEA and Swiss nationals do not need a work permit.
Official authorities
- Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)
Residence and work permits.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Highly Skilled Migrant (kennismigrant) scheme?
A fast route where a recognised-sponsor employer hires you above a salary threshold, processed quickly by the IND.
Do I need a Dutch employer?
For most skilled routes yes — the employer must be an IND-recognised sponsor; the startup and self-employed routes are exceptions.
Is there a 30% ruling?
A tax facility for some incoming skilled workers exists but has been scaled back; check the current percentage and conditions.
Official-information aggregation, not legal advice. Always verify on the authority's own site.