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Highly Skilled Migrant Permit
NetherlandsNetherlands•Europe
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Highly Skilled Migrant Permit

Work PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.

At a Glance

Processing Time

1 day – 3 months

Estimated Cost

EUR €423

Stay Duration

5 years

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

Job offer required

Work

Remote not required

Apply Now Official Information
Netherlands flag

Living in Netherlands

Cost of Living
5% more than United States
Avg Salary€42,000
Quality of Life
206/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Work permit for skilled employees sponsored by IND-recognized Dutch employers with salary threshold.

The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) permit lets IND-recognised employers hire skilled foreign professionals without a labour market test. It covers a broad range of sectors and is a core route for companies bringing international talent into the Dutch knowledge economy.

Salary thresholds apply: EUR 5,942/month for applicants 30 and older, EUR 4,357 for those under 30, and EUR 3,122 for recent graduates. The application fee is EUR 423. Permits run up to 5 years, are renewable, and carry a permanent residence pathway. Spouses receive unrestricted work rights.

This visa is ideal for skilled professionals with a job offer from a Dutch recognised sponsor who want a fast, employer-backed work permit with a path to permanent residence.

Netherlands

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Stay & Extensions

Initial grant5 years

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

EU Long-Term Residence Permit
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EU Long-Term Residence Permit

Validity5 years
Processing1 day – 6 months
View Visa Details
EU Blue Card
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EU Blue Card

Validity5 years
Processing1–3 months
View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must have an employment contract with an employer or research institution in the Netherlands.

The employer must be a recognized sponsor registered with the IND.

Must meet the gross monthly salary threshold (thresholds vary by age and status, e.g., 30+ years, under 30, or reduced rate for recent graduates).

The agreed salary must be in line with market conditions.

Must possess a valid passport.

Must not pose a risk to public order or national security.

KEY CRITERIA

Min. Income

71,304 EUR/yr

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Employment contract

Appendix Antecedents Certificate

Appendix Authorisation and sponsorship declaration

Application Process

1

Find employer

Identify employer recognized by IND

2

Secure job offer

Obtain employment contract meeting salary requirements

3

Employer applies

Employer applies for residence permit with labor certification

4

Receive approval

IND approves application

5

Apply for MVV

Apply for MVV at Dutch embassy if required

6

Enter Netherlands

Travel with MVV and collect residence permit

Application Forms

Go to application portal
Application for the purpose of residence of 'highly skilled migrant' (recognised sponsor) - Form 7511—
7511
Application for the purpose of residence of 'highly skilled migrant' (recognised sponsor)
—
7511Fill online

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