Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Process in the Netherlands

What is the Highly Skilled Migrant Scheme?

The Highly Skilled Migrant scheme allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens with specific expertise to come and work in the Netherlands. Its main features are:

• Sponsor Requirement: You must be employed by a company or organisation that is recognised by the IND (Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst) as a "recognised sponsor."
• Salary Criterion: You must meet a gross monthly salary threshold, which is adjusted twice a year (January and July). There's a lower threshold for migrants under 30 years old.
• Expedited Process: Applications for recognised sponsors are typically processed faster than other permit applications.

Eligibility Criteria for Highly Skilled Migrants

To qualify for a Highly Skilled Migrant permit, you must meet the following:

• Nationality: You must be a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland.
• Recognised Sponsor: You must have an employment contract with an employer who is registered as a recognised sponsor with the IND.
• Salary Requirement: Your gross monthly salary must meet the current IND threshold for Highly Skilled Migrants (excluding 8% holiday allowance).
• Education/Experience: While not a strict diploma requirement like the EU Blue Card, you typically need a higher education or sufficient relevant work experience for the position.
• Valid Travel Document: A valid passport.
• No Criminal Record: You must not pose a threat to public order or national security.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

The Highly Skilled Migrant visa process is generally initiated by your employer.

1. Job Offer from Recognised Sponsor: Your first step is to secure a job offer from a Dutch company that is an IND-recognised sponsor.
2. Employer Submits Application: Your employer, as the sponsor, submits the combined application for the MVV (if required) and the residence permit on your behalf to the IND. They will fill out the necessary forms and attach supporting documents.
3. Required Documents (from employee): You will need to provide your employer with:
   • Copy of your valid passport.
   • Original, legalised/apostilled birth certificate (and potentially marriage certificate if family is joining).
   • Details of your qualifications (diplomas, CV).
   • Any forms requiring your signature.
4. Pay Application Fee: Your employer typically pays the application fee to the IND.
5. IND Processing: The IND will assess the application. For recognised sponsors, the processing time is often around 2-4 weeks.
6. MVV Pick-up (if applicable): If you require an MVV (most non-EU citizens), and the application is approved, you will be notified. You then arrange an appointment at the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of residence to collect the MVV sticker, which is placed in your passport.
7. Travel to the Netherlands: With your MVV (if applicable) and passport, you can travel to the Netherlands.
8. Collect Residence Permit Card: Upon arrival, you will have an appointment with the IND to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and collect your physical residence permit card.
9. BRP Registration: Within 5 days of arriving (or shortly after collecting your permit), you must register in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP) at your local municipality. This is where you will receive your BSN (Citizen Service Number).

Bringing Family Members

As a Highly Skilled Migrant, you can usually bring your direct family members (spouse/partner and minor children) with you to the Netherlands. Their applications are typically submitted at the same time as yours, or shortly after, and also handled by your employer as the sponsor. They will also need MVVs (if required) and will receive their own residence permits.