Dutch European Blue Card

Who it's for

Highly qualified professionals with a recognised university-level qualification and a Netherlands job offer meeting the Blue Card salary threshold, especially those who value the ability to move elsewhere in the EU later.

Requirements

• A recognised higher-education qualification (diploma evaluation may be required)
• An employment contract of at least six months with a Netherlands employer
• Gross monthly salary at or above the Blue Card threshold
• A valid passport
• No public-order objections; TB test where required

What you can do

• Work in highly qualified employment for your employer in the Netherlands
• Bring family members, with the partner permitted to work
• After a qualifying period, move to another EU member state under Blue Card mobility rules
• Accumulate time toward long-term EU resident status

How to apply

The application for the MVV (if needed) and the residence permit is submitted to the IND; a recognised sponsor can file it, or the employee/employer applies directly.

A qualification assessment (e.g. via Nuffic/IDW) is often needed to prove the higher-education requirement.

After approval, collect the MVV abroad if applicable, enter the Netherlands, register with the municipality and collect the residence card.

Documents

• Valid passport
• Recognised higher-education diploma plus credential evaluation if requested
• Employment contract (minimum six months) stating salary
• Antecedents (public order) declaration
• TB test appointment/exemption depending on nationality