Dutch Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant)

Who it's for

Skilled professionals with a confirmed job offer from a Netherlands employer that is (or becomes) an IND-recognised sponsor, whose salary meets the age-based threshold.

Requirements

• A valid employment contract or appointment decision with an IND-recognised sponsor
• A gross monthly salary at or above the threshold for your age band (the reduced rate applies chiefly to recent graduates and orientation-year holders)
• The salary must be market-conform and paid into a bank account in your own name
• A valid passport
• No risk to public order or national security (antecedents declaration); TB test where required by nationality

What you can do

• Work for the sponsoring employer named on your permit
• Bring your partner and children through family reunification, with the partner allowed to work freely
• Change employers, provided the new employer is also a recognised sponsor and the salary criterion is still met
• Build toward permanent residence after five years of lawful stay

How to apply

Your employer, as a recognised sponsor, submits the combined MVV and residence permit application to the IND on your behalf.

If you need an MVV (depends on nationality), you collect it at a Dutch embassy or consulate after approval, travel to the Netherlands, register with the municipality (BSN) and collect your residence card.

Recognised-sponsor applications are prioritised, with the IND targeting a decision within about two weeks in clear cases (the legal maximum is 90 days).

Documents

• Valid passport
• Employment contract / appointment letter stating the gross salary
• Recent proof the employer is a recognised sponsor (handled by the employer)
• Antecedents (public order) declaration
• TB test appointment/exemption depending on nationality