Highly skilled migrant in Netherlands

Highly skilled migrant · Netherlands visa route

skilled · last reviewed 2026-06 · all Netherlands routes

For high-salary skilled roles with a recognised sponsor employer; salary thresholds and income tables are updated periodically.

Important notes

• An employment contract with a Dutch employer or research institution recognised by the IND as a sponsor.
• Salary must meet the current highly skilled migrant income requirement and be in line with the market rate.
• Valid passport, general residence requirements, and legalised/translated foreign documents where requested.
• The recognised employer applies for the MVV and residence permit together where required.
• The permit follows the employment contract and can be valid for a maximum of five years.
• The IND decision period is normally up to 90 days; recognised sponsors may have faster handling targets.

Official source

Official source: Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service

Also look at similar visas from these countries

🇫🇮 Finland Specialist work permit Open this route → 🇪🇸 Spain Highly qualified professional Open this route → 🇮🇪 Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit Open this route → 🇬🇧 United Kingdom Skilled Worker Open this route →

Visa rules change frequently. This page is a research guide, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements with the official source before applying.