Work in Netherlands
Your complete guide to obtaining Netherlands work visa through all available pathways
Your complete guide to obtaining Netherlands work visa through all available pathways
The Netherlands, a dynamic nation in Northwestern Europe with Caribbean territories, is celebrated for its progressive economy, strategic location, and exceptional quality of life. As the largest constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, it comprises 12 provinces in Europe and islands like Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba in the Caribbean.
Bordered by Germany to the east, Belgium to the south, and the North Sea to the north and west, the Netherlands serves as a gateway to Europe. Its world-class ports (Rotterdam) and airports (Amsterdam Schiphol) facilitate seamless trade and travel, with maritime links to the UK, Germany, and Belgium.
"Ideal for expatriates, entrepreneurs, and students seeking opportunity in Europe's most connected and sustainable nation."
Dutch workplaces prioritize flexibility, shorter workweeks, and personal well-being—making it easier to balance career and family life.
Employees benefit from strong protections, including unemployment insurance, paid parental leave, pension schemes, and disability coverage.
The Netherlands has a growing demand for skilled professionals in sectors like IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and logistics—with many roles open to international talent.
Enjoy a safe, clean, and well-connected environment with excellent infrastructure, education, and public services.
Ranked among the best globally, the Dutch healthcare system offers high-quality medical services, accessible insurance, and efficient care.
"Small in size, big on opportunity — the Netherlands is a global career hub where diverse industries, international companies, and a thriving expat community come together to create a truly multicultural and English-friendly workplace."
The Netherlands offers several visa options for foreign professionals, including the Highly Skilled Migrant Permit, EU Blue Card, and Startup Visa, each designed for different employment situations and durations.
pathway created for talented international working professionals.
The EU Blue Card allows skilled non-EU workers to live and work in the Netherlands.
The Single Permit allows non-EU/EEA nationals to live and work in the Netherlands.
The Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) visa is a dedicated pathway created to bring talented international professionals with advanced expertise to the Netherlands.
To apply for the Highly Skilled Migrant visa, you must have a job offer from a Dutch employer registered as a Recognised Sponsor with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). This ensures a faster and more streamlined visa process.
Once you've accepted the job offer, your employer will submit your residence permit application to the IND. Required documents include:
Your gross monthly salary must meet IND's minimum threshold (2024 rates):
The IND typically processes HSM applications within 2–4 weeks. If approved, you'll receive a residence permit valid for your contract duration (up to 5 years).
If required, you'll receive a provisional residence permit (MVV) to enter the Netherlands. Your employer typically applies for both MVV and residence permit simultaneously.
After arrival:
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit designed for highly educated, non-EU professionals seeking to live and work in the Netherlands. It allows skilled workers to contribute to the Dutch economy while also offering mobility across other EU member states that issue the Blue Card.
The Regular Work Permit, also known as the Single Permit, allows non-EU/EEA nationals to live and work in the Netherlands for an extended period. It combines both a residence permit and a work permit into a single application process.
Here's a side-by-side comparison of the most common work visas available to non-EU professionals in the Netherlands.
| Feature | EU Blue Card | Highly Skilled Migrant Visa | Regular Work Permit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target Group | Highly educated non-EU professionals | Skilled non-EU professionals with job offers from recognized sponsors | General non-EU workers for regular employment |
| Education Requirement | Yes – recognized university degree | Not mandatory, but relevant qualifications preferred | Not required |
| Minimum Salary (2024) | €6,245/month | €5,008 (30+), €3,672 (<30), €2,631 (graduates) | Must meet Dutch minimum wage standards |
| Minimum Contract Duration | At least 12 months | No fixed minimum (as per contract) | Varies by job offer (up to 3 years) |
| Recognised Sponsor Required | No | Yes – employer must be IND-recognized sponsor | No (but employer must meet requirements) |
| Labour Market Test (UWV) | No | No | Yes – required to prove no suitable EU candidate |
| Application Submitted By | Employee or employer | Employer only | Employer only |
| Processing Time | Up to 60 days | 2–4 weeks (fast track) | 6–8 weeks (includes UWV review) |
| Permit Validity | Up to 4 years | Up to 5 years | Up to 3 years (based on contract) |
| Mobility in EU | Yes – after 18 months can move to other EU Blue Card states | No – limited to the Netherlands | No – employer-specific and country-specific |
| Permanent Residency Path | After 33 months (21 with B1 Dutch) | After 5 years | After 5 years |
| Family Reunification | Allowed | Allowed | Allowed |
| Best For | Educated professionals seeking EU mobility | Skilled migrants looking for fast-track work in the Netherlands | General workers in sectors like agriculture, logistics, hospitality |
At Globiqvisa, we specialize in guiding skilled professionals through every step of the international employment journey. Whether you're applying for a Highly Skilled Migrant visa, EU Blue Card, or Regular Work Permit, our team ensures a seamless experience.
We connect you with verified and authorized employers in the Netherlands who are officially recognized by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). This ensures that your employment offer meets all the eligibility requirements for visa sponsorship.
From document preparation and application submission to interview guidance and follow-ups with immigration authorities, our team provides end-to-end support to make your visa process smooth, efficient, and stress-free.